An explosion at Jimbo’s Auto Shop in Hillsboro, Ohio, resulted in three fatalities and one person injured on November 28 around 4 p.m. The blast triggered an immediate fire at the site. Paint Creek Joint EMS and Fire Chief David Manning confirmed the three deaths, with the injured individual in stable condition. The explosion, felt blocks away, created chaos, with the local fire chief describing the scene as a “war zone.” Emergency crews, supported by eight fire departments, worked for hours to control the fire. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and authorities have not released the identities of the victims.
Who is liable?
When accidents like these occur, liability depends on who was injured and how. If employees of Jimbo’s Auto Shop were among the injured, workers’ compensation is the primary avenue for seeking compensation. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning employees are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who is at fault for the workplace injury. However, there is one key exception: if a third party, such as a contractor, supplier or other entity, is found responsible, injured parties can seek compensation through a third-party liability claim.
Customers injured on the premises may also be eligible for compensation under premises liability laws. The auto shop has a responsibility to maintain a safe environment for customers, and if negligence is proven, they may be able to recover damages.
What to do after a serious accident
Experiencing an accident can be overwhelming, but taking certain steps promptly will help your case. Here’s what to do:
- Seek immediate medical attention: Seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor. Document all medical assessments, treatments and follow-up care.
- Report the incident: Report the accident to your employer or the property owner, ensuring that all relevant details are accurately documented. This is important for initiating any workers’ compensation claims, third-party or related actions.
- Document the scene: If possible, document the accident scene by taking photographs or videos. Capture any contributing factors, hazards or conditions that may have led to the incident.
- Collect information: Gather contact information from any witnesses. Their statements may be crucial for validating your account of the incident.
- Preserve evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the incident. This includes retaining any damaged equipment, clothing or objects involved. Keep a detailed record of all related expenses, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages and other damages.
- Notify supervisors or management: Keep your supervisor or management informed about your situation. This is important for initiating any necessary workers’ compensation claims.
- File a workers’ compensation claim (if applicable): If the accident occurred on the job, file a workers’ compensation claim.
- Consult legal counsel: Seek legal advice from The Law Offices of Tim Misny. We can help you understand your rights, guide you through the claims process, and assess the potential for additional legal actions.
Talk to a Columbus personal injury lawyer today
The Law Offices of Tim Misny can help you with your accident claim. When you’re the victim of negligence or recklessness, I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (877) 614-9524 so that I can evaluate your case right away.
