Jason Stephens | March 3, 2025 | Personal Injury
Gas leaks are notoriously dangerous, and the problems they cause don’t just disappear once the leak is fixed. Whether gas leaks occur in a home, workplace, or public space, they can leave lasting impacts on the property itself, the surrounding environment, and — most notably — the health of those inside.
Health Problems That Can Last a Lifetime
Exposure to a gas leak doesn’t always cause immediate symptoms. Some people breathe harmful gases for weeks without realizing it. Over time, however, serious health problems and disabilities can arise.
Chronic Respiratory Issues
Gas leaks often release methane, carbon monoxide, and other toxic substances. Even low levels of these can cause inflammation in the lungs and aggravate conditions like bronchitis and asthma. In severe cases, long-term exposure can lead to permanent lung damage.
Neurological Damage
Many people who survive carbon monoxide poisoning report having problems with their memory and ability to concentrate, as well as experiencing mood swings long after their initial exposure. Such forms of brain damage can be permanent and affect a person’s cognitive health for the rest of their lives.
Increased Cancer Risk
Some gases, like benzene, are known carcinogens. Prolonged exposure to them could increase a person’s risk of developing leukemia and other cancers, and it can be decades before they show any symptoms.
Damage To Homes and Property
Even after a gas leak is fixed, the effects it will have had on your home or other property, listed below, won’t just go away.
Structural Damage
Gas leaks can weaken structures over time. If a leak isn’t noticed for a long enough time, it can cause materials to deteriorate, which can leave a building’s owner with costly repairs and even make the establishment unsafe.
Explosion And Fire Risk
Natural gas is highly flammable. Even after the leak has stopped, fumes can linger in the walls, insulation, and pipes. That means — if there’s ever any spark or ignition source — a fire or explosion could occur.
Lingering Odors and Contamination
Certain gases, especially sulfur-based ones, can seep into carpets, walls, and furniture, leaving behind a strong, foul smell. Oftentimes, a professional cleaning, or even a full replacement of the affected materials, is needed to get rid of it.
Environmental Consequences
Gas leaks don’t just affect the people and buildings nearby. They can have serious impacts on the environment as well.
Take, for instance, methane, which is a common component of natural gas and a potent greenhouse gas itself. When it leaks into the atmosphere, it traps heat and contributes to climate change.
Similarly, gas leaks underground can seep into the water supply and surrounding soil. The resulting contamination can kill plants, hurt local wildlife, and make water unsafe to drink.
Financial and Emotional Toll
Between home repairs, medical costs, and possible job loss because of the ensuing health issues, gas leaks can create financial hardship that lasts for years. Homeowners and business owners often struggle to deal with insurance claims, and renters might be forced to relocate.
The fear and stress of dealing with a gas leak can leave lasting emotional scars, too, especially if an explosion takes place or if someone gets sick or hurt. People can easily develop PTSD or anxiety if they lose a loved one or their home because of the damage caused by a gas leak.
The Hidden Consequences of a Gas Leak
A gas leak is never just a temporary problem; even after the immediate danger is gone, the impacts can linger for years. For those affected, it can be tough to deal with the aftermath. Insurance claims, property damage, and permanent health conditions are a lot to deal with.
Knowing the full scope of the potential impact is critical when determining responsibility and seeking justice.
Contact Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth and Weatherford personal injury lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 406
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents – Weatherford Office
109 York Ave Suite #201
Weatherford, TX 76086
(817) 409-7000
