Gas Stations Can Be Dangerous Places
For those who drive a vehicle regularly, pumping gas has likely become somewhat routine. However, there are some common mistakes that people make while pumping gas. These include:
- Not Turning Off the Engine: While gas can be pumped while the car runs, having a hot engine near free-flowing gasoline is not a good idea.
- Recapping the Tank: It’s not unusual to see someone driving off without putting the cap back on the tank.
- Driving Off with the Pump: Occasionally, someone will forget to put the pump back in the stall, which can have disastrous consequences.
Injuries Can Happen
Serious injuries can happen while pumping gasoline at a gas station. Examples of some of the injuries include:
- Burn Injuries: It’s possible to sustain burn injuries while pumping gas. Someone who forgets to put out a cigarette can leak embers onto gasoline on the ground. This can trigger a fire, leading to severe burn injuries.
- Slip and Fall: The ground around the gas pump is a wet, slick surface, which makes it easy for someone to slip and fall. These types of injuries can even lead to bone fractures.
- Vapor Inhalation: The smell of gasoline has a very unique odor. Hot gas odor can lead to significant airway damage, which could swell up, making breathing hard.
How to Treat Gasoline Burns
Someone who has sustained severe gasoline burn injuries is going to experience a variety of symptoms. These injuries can cause intense pain. It is crucial to thoroughly decontaminate the person to remove any residual gasoline that might still be on his or her skin. Pain control is also vital to make the person comfortable. After this, treatment of the burned skin is subsequent. Any areas of dead skin will need to be removed, and skin grafts will be required to cover these areas. Finally, if someone has trouble breathing, he or she will need to be intubated to protect the airway.
Folsom Personal Injury Lawyers
I’m Smith, a Folsom Personal Injury Lawyer. Severe injuries can happen at a gas station. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries while pumping gas, call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice. You can also contact me online at autoaccident.com.
I’m a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
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