Gas leaks are serious safety hazards that can lead to fires, explosions, and even death. But the damage doesn’t stop there. Even after the immediate danger has passed, a gas leak can leave long-lasting effects on a person’s health, home, and quality of life.
At Zehl & Associates, our undefeated pipeline explosion lawyers have seen firsthand the destruction gas leaks leave behind. Our undefeated trial lawyers have recovered Billions — including record-setting verdicts and settlements — for thousands of people injured or tragically killed in the worst industrial explosions and disasters in recent history. When gas companies cut corners and put profits ahead of safety, we hold them fully accountable and fight to secure the justice and maximum compensation our clients deserve.
f you or a loved one has been affected by a gas leak in Texas, here’s what you need to know about the dangers — and your legal rights.
Understanding What a Gas Leak Is
Natural gas is used in many Texas homes for heating, cooking, and powering appliances. While it’s generally safe when handled properly, a small leak can become a big problem fast. A gas leak happens when natural gas escapes from a pipeline or appliance, sometimes without anyone noticing right away.
Because natural gas has no smell, gas companies add a chemical that makes it smell like rotten eggs. This helps people notice leaks. But if the leak happens slowly or in a place no one checks often, the gas can build up to dangerous levels.
Immediate Dangers of a Gas Leak
Right away, gas leaks can cause fires or explosions. Even a small spark—like flipping a light switch—can set off an explosion if gas has built up inside a building. People inside may be seriously injured or even killed. Inhaling natural gas can also cause serious symptoms, like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and trouble breathing.
If exposed for too long, it can lead to unconsciousness or death due to a lack of oxygen. While these dangers are serious, the long-term effects of a gas leak can be just as harmful, and sometimes even harder to detect.
Long-Term Health Problems After a Gas Leak
One of the biggest concerns after a gas leak is long-term health damage. Even after the leak is repaired, people who were exposed to gas may continue to suffer from health issues for months or even years.
Exposed individuals might experience:
- Respiratory problems: Breathing in gas can damage the lungs and airways. People may develop chronic coughs, asthma, or shortness of breath. Children and older adults are especially at risk, as their lungs are more sensitive.
- Neurological issues: Exposure to gas can also affect the brain. People may have memory loss, confusion, mood swings, or trouble concentrating. These symptoms may not appear right away and can be hard to connect to the gas leak.
- Mental health effects: Living through a gas leak can also be a traumatic event. Some people develop anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after experiencing a leak or explosion. They may also develop a long-term fear of living in their own home.
In all of these cases, the person’s life can change in lasting and painful ways.
Long-Term Property Damage
Gas leaks can also cause long-term harm to a home or building. Even if there was no fire or explosion, the gas can damage appliances, heating systems, and electrical wiring. Repairs can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance if the leak was not reported right away.
If there was a fire or explosion, property damage can be extreme. Some homes may be unsafe to live in ever again. Families may lose personal belongings and be forced to move out for good.
Contact the Undefeated Houston Personal Injury Lawyers from Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers for Help Today, Call 1-888-603-3636
A gas leak can turn your life upside down in a matter of minutes, but the consequences can last for years. Health problems, property damage, and financial struggles can follow you long after the leak has been fixed. That’s why it’s important to take gas leaks seriously, act quickly, and know your legal rights.
If you’ve been affected by a gas leak in Texas, you don’t have to face the future alone.
For more information, please contact our Undefeated personal injury attorneys in Houston, Texas at Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Harris County, Midland County, and throughout the state of Texas. We are located in Houston and Midland and throughout the state of Texas:
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
Open 24 hours