What Should I Do Immediately After Being Injured In A Plant Explosion?
As attorneys representing injured workers and their families across Detroit and the state of Michigan, we know how devastating a plant explosion can be. These incidents happen suddenly, often leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and questions about what to do next. The chaos in the aftermath can make it difficult to think clearly, but your actions in the minutes, days, and weeks following the explosion are critical—not just for your health, but also for your legal rights. We want to help you understand what steps to take and how to protect your ability to recover compensation.
In Michigan, injured workers are typically entitled to benefits through the workers’ compensation system. However, in cases involving plant explosions, additional parties—such as third-party contractors, equipment manufacturers, or maintenance crews—may be legally responsible. This opens the door to separate personal injury claims. That’s why it’s important to act quickly and get guidance from a legal team that knows how to handle complex industrial injury cases.
Get Immediate Medical Attention
Your health must come first. If you are injured in a plant explosion, do not wait to seek medical care. Call emergency services or report to the onsite medical team right away. Even if your injuries seem minor, internal injuries, burns, or inhalation of toxic substances can worsen over time. Documenting your injuries immediately also creates a medical record that will be important for any future claim.
Under Michigan’s Workers’ Disability Compensation Act (WDCA), codified under MCL 418.101 et seq., your employer is generally responsible for covering medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages. To receive these benefits, you must notify your employer of the injury within 90 days and file a workers’ compensation claim within two years of the incident.
Report The Explosion To Your Employer Or Supervisor
As soon as possible, inform your supervisor or employer about the explosion and your injuries. This creates an official record that may be used as evidence in your claim. If you’re unable to report it yourself due to the severity of your injuries, ask a coworker or family member to do it on your behalf. The employer is required to file a report with the Michigan Workers’ Compensation Agency.
Preserve Any Evidence From The Scene
If it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the explosion site, your injuries, and any damaged equipment or surroundings. If you’re unable to do this, ask someone you trust to collect this information. This type of evidence can help prove the cause of the explosion and identify potential third-party liability. We also recommend writing down everything you remember while the details are fresh—such as where you were standing, what you saw or heard, and any warning signs before the explosion.
Avoid Speaking With Insurance Adjusters Before Talking To A Lawyer
Insurance companies may contact you quickly after an explosion, hoping to obtain statements or settle the case early. Do not give a recorded statement or sign anything without legal counsel. Adjusters work to protect the company’s bottom line, not your recovery. We speak on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Explore Whether You Have A Third-Party Personal Injury Claim
While workers’ compensation benefits are limited to medical costs and wage loss, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against a third party. Under Michigan law, you cannot sue your employer directly if they carry workers’ compensation insurance. But if another company’s negligence caused or contributed to the explosion—such as a contractor, parts supplier, or safety inspector—you can file a civil claim to recover damages.
These claims can include compensation for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Future medical expenses
- Loss of earning capacity
- Disfigurement and disability
We investigate the cause of the explosion, determine who may be at fault, and pursue compensation beyond what workers’ comp provides.
Plant Explosion Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind Of Compensation Can I Receive After A Plant Explosion Injury?
If your injury occurred while working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation under Michigan law, including medical coverage and a percentage of your lost wages. If a third party’s negligence played a role in the explosion, you may also pursue a personal injury claim for pain and suffering, loss of future earnings, and other long-term impacts.
Can I Sue My Employer For A Plant Explosion Injury?
Generally, no. Under the Michigan Workers’ Disability Compensation Act, you cannot sue your employer for workplace injuries if they provide workers’ comp insurance. However, if gross negligence or a third party caused the explosion, you may have grounds for a separate claim. We evaluate each case carefully to determine the full scope of liability.
How Long Do I Have To File A Workers’ Compensation Claim In Michigan?
You must notify your employer within 90 days of the injury. You then have two years from the date of the explosion to formally file a workers’ compensation claim. If you miss these deadlines, you may lose your right to benefits. That’s why it’s important to speak with an attorney right away.
Can I File A Lawsuit If I Was Not An Employee But Was Injured Nearby?
Yes. If you were a contractor, delivery driver, vendor, or even a bystander injured in a plant explosion, you may have a valid personal injury claim. Unlike employees, you are not limited to workers’ comp and can sue directly for damages. We help non-employees pursue fair compensation for their injuries and losses.
What If The Explosion Was Caused By Faulty Equipment?
If defective equipment or machinery contributed to the explosion, the manufacturer or maintenance company may be liable under Michigan product liability laws. We work with experts to examine the failed equipment and identify all parties that may be responsible.
Will I Have To Go To Court?
Not necessarily. Many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation. However, if the other side refuses to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to litigate and take your case to trial. We prepare every case thoroughly to ensure the best possible outcome, whether in court or during negotiations.
Get Help From Our Michigan Plant Explosion Injury Attorney
If you or someone you love has been injured in a plant explosion, you don’t have to figure it out alone. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we’ve been helping injured clients in Detroit and across the state of Michigan recover full and fair compensation for more than 50 years. We understand how to handle these complex cases and fight for the justice you deserve.
If you or a loved one was harmed in a plant accident, call our Detroit personal injury lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. From our office in Southfield, we proudly serve injury victims in Detroit and throughout the entire state of Michigan.
