Last week five men were killed in an explosion at an industrial estate in Boston, Lincolnshire. It is understood a sixth man was admitted to hospital with serious burns.
Although it is very early days following the explosion, the repercussions of such an event are likely to go on for months, if not years. The focus in media reports has been largely concentrated on the possibility of illegal alcohol being brewed, but in the weeks and months to come, the focus is likely to turn to the families of the victims and their loss.
There are likely to be a number of investigations arising following the explosion. Whilst the police are already involved, the Health and Safety Executive will probably also be investigating and there may be separate inquests into the deaths of the five men who were killed.
Leigh Day & Co has extensive experience of acting for those injured in similar incidents and their families. Most notably we represented a number of businesses and individuals affected by the 2009 explosion at the Buncefield Oil Depot in Hertfordshire.
We have also acted in a number of smaller claims arising from explosions – in 2009, partner, Daniel Easton negotiated a settlement for John Nichols, who suffered injuries when his neighbour’s house exploded as a result of a gas leak.
Daniel comments as follows:
“Acting on behalf of the victims of an explosion and their families, goes much wider than simply looking to recover compensation. In similar cases, we have been involved heavily in the investigative side of matters, liaising with police, the HSE and representing the families of victims at inquests. Whilst ultimately, we seek to recover compensation for those who are injured, and their families, there has to be an understanding that the solicitor’s job goes much deeper than trying to recover damages. There may be numerous legal processes going on at any one time, dealing with coroners, police and other investigative bodies and having the experience and knowledge to deal with these matters can make a considerable difference to the families involved”.
If you would like to speak to Daniel please contact him on 020 7650 1200 or by email.