Pahrump, NV (May 22nd, 2025) – Pahrump, located just over an hour west of Las Vegas, recently opened a designated Fireworks Safety Site for Memorial Day weekend festivities.
In Las Vegas, fireworks are part of the spectacle, especially during Memorial Day weekend, the Fourth of July, and New Year’s Eve. However, when things go wrong, the results can be life-changing. Fireworks accidents aren’t just loud mishaps, they can cause devastating injuries and lead to serious legal consequences.
Common Causes of Fireworks Accidents
Fireworks injuries can happen in an instant. Some of the most common causes include:
- Improper handling by untrained individuals
- Malfunctioning or defective fireworks
- Lack of crowd control at public displays
- Inadequate supervision of children or teens
- Violation of local fireworks regulations
In Clark County, only “Safe and Sane” fireworks are permitted, and only for a short window during the summer. Anything that shoots into the air, explodes, or spins is illegal for personal use. Despite the restrictions, however, illegal fireworks are widely used across the Las Vegas Valley and often play a role in some of the worst accidents.
Injuries Caused by Fireworks Accidents
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, fireworks send thousands of people to the emergency room every year. Many of these injuries are preventable and stem from improper use, defective products, or a lack of safety precautions.
Types of Injuries
- Burns (first- to third-degree)
- Eye trauma and vision loss
- Hand and finger amputations
- Facial disfigurement
- Hearing damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Some victims are left with permanent injuries that affect their ability to work or care for themselves. The emotional and financial toll can be just as damaging as the physical trauma.
Who Is Liable for a Fireworks Injury?
Liability in a fireworks accident depends on where the incident occurred and who was involved. Several parties could be responsible, depending on the circumstances.
Private Individuals Hosting Firework Displays
If someone invites guests to their home or a gathering and sets off fireworks that lead to injury, they could be liable. That includes situations where fireworks were illegal, misused, or discharged in unsafe conditions. Nevada’s premises liability laws allow injury victims to pursue compensation if a property owner fails to maintain a reasonably safe environment.
Cities and Event Organizers
When accidents happen at large public shows, event organizers, the pyrotechnics company, or even a city agency may be on the hook. If a show lacks proper safety barriers or crowd control, or if something malfunctions mid-display, multiple entities could be liable.
Cases such as these often involve strict filing deadlines, especially if you’re suing a government agency, so time is critical.
Fireworks Manufacturers and Retailers
Sometimes, fireworks are dangerous, even when used properly. If a product explodes unexpectedly or fails to perform as labeled, the manufacturer or seller may be liable under Nevada’s product liability laws. Such claims often require expert analysis of the firework’s design, materials, and testing standards.
Community Efforts to Reduce Fireworks Injuries
As firework-related incidents continue to strain emergency services, some Nevada communities are pushing for safer alternatives. One such alternative is the fireworks safety site established by the city of Pahrump. Located at 3770 Fox Ave, the site offers a legal and supervised space for residents and tourists to discharge fireworks safely.
The site will feature supervised shooting areas, safety personnel on standby, first-aid stations, accessible water sources for emergencies, and debris cleanup resources. This initiative by Pahrump officials is designed to curb illegal fireworks use and reduce fire risks and injuries.
What to Do After a Fireworks Injury in Las Vegas
A fireworks injury can unfold in seconds, but what you do next can shape your recovery and your legal options. In the moments and days that follow, you should:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Don’t wait to see if it gets better. Burns, eye injuries, and concussions can worsen quickly without proper treatment. Go to the ER or an urgent care clinic, even if the injury seems minor at first. Medical records will also serve as important documentation if you decide to pursue a claim.
Report the Incident to Authorities
If the injury occurred at a public event, near a residential area, or involved illegal fireworks, report it to local law enforcement or Clark County Fire Department. An official report helps establish a timeline and may support your case later.
For serious injuries, 911 should be your first call. Otherwise, you can file a non-emergency report through the appropriate agency.
Document the Scene
Photos and videos can be powerful evidence. If it’s safe, take pictures of:
- The location where the incident occurred
- Any debris or remnants of fireworks
- Your injuries before treatment
- Environmental conditions, such as lack of lighting, crowds, and blocked exits
If you can’t take photos yourself, ask someone nearby to help.
Get Witness Contact Information
Eyewitness accounts can help verify what happened, especially if fault is disputed. If anyone saw the incident, ask for their name, phone number, and a brief description of what they observed. Even one solid statement can support your version of events.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone
Once a claim is filed, expect a call from an insurance adjuster. They may sound helpful, however, their job is to limit payouts. Therefore, be cautious with your words. Don’t admit fault, speculate on your injuries, or agree to a recorded statement.
Instead, refer the adjuster to your Las Vegas event injury lawyer or say you’re not ready to speak until you’ve sought legal advice.
Talk to a Las Vegas Injury Lawyer About Your Fireworks Accident
If you were hurt in a fireworks accident, whether at a public show, private gathering, or due to a defective product, you don’t have to deal with the fallout alone. Fireworks injuries often raise tough questions about who’s responsible and what it will take to get your life back on track.
Our team at George Bochanis Injury Law Offices handles serious accident cases throughout the Las Vegas area. We’ll look at the details, identify who’s liable, and help you understand what your case may be worth. To discuss your options, contact us today at 702-388-2005.
