A Fresh Start Turns Catastrophic

Jackie had just moved into his new rental trailer, ready for a fresh start. Just two days later, a simple act—trying to light his stove—turned into an unimaginable nightmare. He turned on the propane tank, but when he tried unsuccessfully to light the pilot light on the stove top and then the oven, the accumulated gas ignited, resulting in a massive explosion that engulfed him in flames.

Jackie suffered second and third-degree burns over 60 percent of his body, injuries so severe they stripped him of his ability to work. He was left not only with agonizing physical pain but also with the crushing reality of a lost future, all because of an invisible, preventable threat.

When a life is irrevocably changed by such a horrific event, the need for answers and accountability is immediate and overwhelming. Many might focus solely on the explosion, but we knew there was a deeper truth about negligence to uncover.

Uncovering the Truth and the Cover-Up

As soon as Steve Broussard took on Jackie’s case, he acted with the relentless determination necessary to get to the bottom of what happened, prioritizing the immediate investigation and preservation of key evidence. His forensic investigation revealed a shocking truth:

1. Improper Connection: The stove was dangerously disconnected from an open propane line.
2. Lack of Warning: The propane tank lacked the proper amount of odorant, the chemical designed to warn people of dangerous leaks by smell.
3. Failure to Test: The propane company had failed to perform a crucial leak test upon delivery.

Even more disturbing, Steve uncovered chilling evidence that someone had attempted to tamper with the tank after the explosion to hide the true, dangerously low levels of odorant. Luckily, Steve had already secured a pre-tampering sample proving the real, insufficient levels.

Armed with undeniable evidence of negligence and the attempted cover-up, Steve Broussard built an unshakeable case. His relentless pursuit and determined focus created immense pressure on the defendants. Just days before the case was set to go to trial, the full extent of the propane company’s liability was undeniable, and they settled.

The financial recovery we secured for Jackie was substantial. While no amount of money can erase the pain of his injuries, this settlement provides him with the financial support he needs for the rest of his life, and considerable additional funds to help him enjoy the highest possible quality of life after his tragic burns.

“From the first visit, the professional and compassionate way I was greeted continued throughout my association with Steven. I was made to feel comfortable and confident in the decisions we made. The integrity and overall handling of my case made me feel I could trust this firm in any legal matter.”

Broussard Knoll Law Firm Client

“Over and over again, I have seen corporations and insurance companies tamper with and flat-out hide evidence. It is so important to investigate every case immediately and NEVER take what the other side says for granted. You have to question everything.”

Steven Broussard
Partner & Trial Lawyer