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by The Stoddard Firm - May 28th, 2021
A couple in their 70s living in Union County near Blairsville were killed in early May when their home exploded. They have since been identified as Peggy Wood and Ralph Norris Wood Jr.
Mourning neighbors, some of them left with damage to their own homes as well, describe the Woods’ house as completely leveled. Because of the extent of the damage, the investigation into the cause of the explosion may take weeks, but officials say they are checking into the home’s gas tank. Unintentional gas ignitions are by far the most common cause of serious household explosions.
Many gas explosions are caused by negligence at some point in the gas distribution process. If this is the case in the Woods’ accident, their surviving next of kin likely have grounds for a wrongful death case.
When house fires and explosions happen, and there is no obvious evidence of criminal activity, people are often quick to write them off as freak tragedies. These incidents aren’t an impartial, unstoppable force of nature, however. They’re usually the result of human error or neglect. The frequency of these accidents varies according to things like region, income, and type of housing, because not everyone receives the same level of fire protection, even though they should.
Based on the most recent data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Georgia’s fire death rate is about 30% higher than the national average. The average number of fire deaths in Georgia each year has never dropped below 114 since tracking began in 1981. That’s a lot of lives lost to inadequate fire safety.
The Woods did not deserve to become part of these statistics, and neither does anyone else. One of the best ways to stop the accidents and protect Georgia residents is to reject the idea of a freak tragedy, find out what events led to a fire or explosion, identify those responsible, and hold them accountable.
Flammable gases do, of course, carry some inherent danger that can’t be completely eliminated. This does not mean, however, that consumers use it entirely at their own risk and bear all the responsibility if something goes wrong.
Every company that sells flammable gas, equipment intended for use with flammable gas, or maintenance services for this equipment, has a responsibility to make sure their products and services don’t place consumers at any unnecessary risk. This includes, among other things, making sure tanks like the one in the Woods’ home are free of defects and have all appropriate safety mechanisms.
Companies that provide potentially dangerous products, such as flammable gas, must also provide consumers with thorough warnings and instructions on how to minimize their risk. Even accidents caused by customer error can be the gas company’s responsibility if the customer was not given potentially life-saving information.
Hopefully, the police and fire department will soon determine what caused the explosion that killed the Woods. Depending on the results, their surviving family may soon be making a choice about whether to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit against a negligent company.
If you are the next of kin of Peggy Wood and Ralph Norris Wood Jr., or if you have been injured or lost a loved on to another gas explosion in Georgia, please feel free to call The Stoddard Firm at any time for a free consultation on your legal options.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who spent years defending major corporations in serious injury and wrongful death cases before switching sides to fight for families who have lost someone. Known for high-profile wrongful death trials featured on Courtroom View Network, he is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, he works tirelessly to pursue accountability and deliver results for families facing catastrophic loss.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
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I went through one of the worst times of my life. When I decided to reach out to Matt it was one of the best decisions I have ever made. He really is a genuine guy who cares about his clients. He worked hard for me and my family for 2 years until we were awarded a settlement we felt deserving! I could not recommend a better guy for your legal services!
Attorney Matthew Stoddard and his staff are awesome professionals. I contacted them with a problem, in my opinion he went above and beyond to assist me. He showed understanding and care and exceeded my expectations.
The Stoddard Firm did an excellent job in representing me in my case ! They went far and beyond to help me, even driving 4 hours to meet me multiple times as a client!!! I honestly felt like I was a member of their legal team and would recommend them to anyone in need of a great lawyer!!!
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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If you or a loved one has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, we’re here to help. Fill out the form below, and one of our experienced Atlanta personal injury attorneys will contact you shortly to discuss your case. Call us 678-RESULTS.
Your information will remain confidential and used solely to contact you about your case.
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