Fires / Explosions

Depending on the circumstances, obvious factors may make determining the source of a fire or explosion relatively easy. However, without an apparent source, the interaction of chemical, thermal and physical components make understanding fires and explosions a very intricate scientific analysis. By studying burn patterns, experts can determine whether materials present at the fire scene could have acted as accelerants (curtains or upholstery) and establish the burn rate due to oxygen available based on ventilation (open doors or windows), etc. The degree of necessary scrutiny is expensive and requires a team of highly qualified experts with extensive experience in fire investigation and reconstruction.

At Drew, Cooper & Anding, we have the resources available to litigate fire and explosion cases. Cases such as these may fall under premises liability, in instances where fires were caused through landlord negligence, a lack of using fire retardation materials, or evidence of negligent fire prevention precautions. However, product liability often results in fires as well, such as manufacturing flaws in gas tanks, water heaters, or oxygen tanks. Our attorneys have comprehensive knowledge of Michigan’s complex Product Liability statute, which has proved vital in surviving the pitfalls the statute presents. Propane litigation is another area of focus in which our attorneys have particular expertise.

Having successfully represented numerous fire and explosion cases, we have achieved verdicts and settlements at or above $1,000,000. One defective product case our law firm handled resulted in a recovery of $2,000,000 for a young girl injured in a fire.