When Janie* attended a small gathering at an apartment complex pool area, she had no reason to suspect that a newly installed outdoor grill was unexpectedly dangerous. Within minutes of opening the grill hood, though, a sudden flash fire erupted from beneath the structure that ignited her clothing and caused burn injuries to her legs, feet, and hand.
What should have been a safe community amenity instead became the source of a life-altering explosion.
The premises liability lawyers at Crosley Law pursued accountability and ultimately secured a settlement for Janie after extensive litigation and expert investigation.
*Name changed to protect privacy
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A preventable explosion caused by a dangerous design
The incident occurred at a residential apartment complex where a brand-new outdoor kitchen and propane grill had been installed only days earlier. Janie, a guest of a tenant, was using the grill for the very first time when a backflash explosion occurred due to a dangerous accumulation of gas within the grill enclosure.
Evidence later showed the structure lacked proper ventilation panels, a critical safety requirement designed to prevent gas buildup in enclosed propane installations. As a result, when the grill lid was opened, trapped gas ignited and shot flames outward, causing severe burns to Janie’s lower extremities and thumb.
The burn injuries and aftermath
The explosion left Janie with:
- Second- and third-degree burns to her ankles, feet, inner thigh, and thumb
- Significant pain requiring emergency treatment and wound care
- Ongoing scarring, sensitivity, and limitations with daily activities
Medical records documented extreme pain immediately following the incident and multiple follow-up visits for burn treatment and wound care.
Even routine activities like wearing certain shoes, standing for long periods, or sleeping comfortably became difficult for Janie due to lingering pain and sensitivity.
Defendants tried to shift the blame
As litigation progressed, the defense attempted to diffuse responsibility across multiple parties, including the premises owners, contractors, subcontractors, and vendors involved in the outdoor kitchen installation, as well as Janie herself.
However, discovery and depositions revealed a clearer story:
- The grill enclosure was constructed without required ventilation
- Industry standards and manufacturer guidelines required proper venting to prevent gas buildup
- Experienced technicians recognized that the lack of ventilation as a safety hazard
A fire safety expert retained by Crosley confirmed that missing vent panels could allow propane gas to accumulate and create a dangerous flash fire risk.
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How Crosley Law built the case for Janie
This was not a simple premises liability case. It required deep investigation, technical evidence, and strategic litigation. Our team:
- Took multiple depositions of premises owners, contractors, installers, and corporate representatives
- Investigated construction plans and installation protocols
- Retained specialized experts, including a fire investigator, burn specialist, psychiatrist, and life care planner
- Developed liability evidence showing the grill failed to comply with safety standards and manufacturer specifications
Ultimately, expert analysis confirmed that proper ventilation would have significantly reduced the risk of gas accumulation and explosion.
The result: A substantial settlement for our client
After extensive discovery and mounting liability evidence, the defendants agreed to a settlement rather than face the risk of trial.
This resolution provided Janie with financial security for her medical care, ongoing treatment, and the long-term physical and emotional effects of her burn injuries.
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We fight to prove the right parties accountable
Apartment complexes and property managers have a duty to ensure that shared amenities are safe for residents and guests. When corners are cut during construction or installation, the consequences can be catastrophic. Even a brand-new installation can be dangerously defective if safety standards are ignored.
At Crosley Law, we dig deeper than surface explanations. Through expert testimony, strategic depositions, and relentless preparation, we hold negligent companies accountable even in complex, multi-defendant cases involving construction defects and fire hazards.
Injured by a dangerous property condition or defective installation? Call Crosley Law at 210-LAW-3000 or contact us online to request a free consultation.
