In South Carolina, many people decide to shoot off their own fireworks, especially around the Fourth of July. Sadly, what can be a very fun activity and event for friends and families can lead to serious injuries if safety precautions are not followed or accidents happen. 

This article will include some essential safety tips, statistics, and the next steps you should take should you be injured. As a law firm representing people who have been seriously injured across the state, it is our mission to keep South Carolina residents and visitors safe, informed, and well-protected when accidents happen. Happy 4th of July!

Safety Tips For Those Lighting Fireworks:

  • Be sure to read and follow the directions on each firework package.
  • Light fireworks outdoors in a clear area free from people, houses, or other flammable objects.
  • Light one device at a time and stand clear until it has burned out.
  • Store fireworks in a cool, dry place before use.
  • All viewers should maintain a safe distance from the fireworks.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at people, even if unlit.
  • Should a firework malfunction, soak it in water and safely discard it.
  • Always have a large bucket of water close so you can extinguish fireworks that don’t go off or in case of an emergency fire.
  • Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks or sparklers.
  • Do not use fireworks when under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • Never place any part of your body over the firework when lighting the fuse.

What Injuries Are Common From Sparklers and Fireworks?

Firework and sparkler accidents commonly lead to burn injuries. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), most burns occur on the legs, trunk, or arms, making up 34% of burn injuries. Hand and finger burns made up 31%, head, face, and ears at 21% and eyes at 14%. Burn injuries can be very serious and can lead to permanent damage. In addition, fractures, loss of finger(s), hearing loss, cuts, bumps, and bruises are other common injuries we see during this time. 

Based on experience representing those who have been injured, these accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and at no fault of your own.

Who Is Responsible For Firework/Sparkler Injuries?

Many injuries from fireworks are self-inflicted from accidental or careless user error. However, in other cases the fireworks themselves may malfunction and cause injuries to the user or bystanders even if they were being properly used. Proving liability in firework accident cases can be tricky, as there are various parties that can be held liable. This may include the homeowner where the injuries occurred, the firework/sparkler manufacturer, the importer or retailer(s), or another party. This is dependent on the specifics of your case. 

If you need help understanding liability in a South Carolina firework or sparkler injury, our office is here to answer your questions. Call us today at (803) 888-2200. For your convenience, we are available 24/7.

If I’ve Been Injured in a Firework Accident, Can I Bring a Claim?

If you were injured as a result of somebody else’s negligence, you may have a case. A personal injury lawyer will work with you to make sure you are compensated for a wide range of damages that the accident may have resulted in, such as:

  • Past, present, and future medical bills
  • Lost wages if unable to return to work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of limbs or permanent impairment
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Property damage, and more.

Looking For More Information? Contact Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC

If you have any additional questions about firework safety or are wondering if you have a case, our office is here to help. Simply give us a call at (803) 888-2200, send us an email at info@ctlawsc.com, or complete our secure online form, and a member of our team will be in touch. Our team offers free consultations, so it won’t cost you anything to speak with an experienced attorney and find out your options.

About Cavanaugh & Thickens, LLC

With over 60 years of combined experience, the award-winning attorneys at Cavanaugh & Thickens help injured victims and their families recover physically, financially, and emotionally. Our firm handles cases throughout the state of South Carolina and our team is dedicated to getting our clients the entirety of what they’re owed under SC law, we won’t settle for less. Client Focused-Results Driven. Contact our office today.