In April 2023, Zinda Law Group secured a $2,682,500 jury verdict for two clients seriously injured in a gas explosion case stemming from a catastrophic flash fire. The case was tried in the City and County of Denver, Colorado, and led by Attorneys Neil Solomon, Jack Zinda, Shivangi Mehta, and Ben Abbas. It took nearly two years of litigation, expert evaluation, and trial preparation to bring the case to resolution.
The verdict marked a significant victory for the two clients, who were both seriously injured when a defective food truck exploded shortly after they attempted to operate it. The incident occurred in May 2021, and after nearly 23 months of legal proceedings, the jury returned a powerful decision in favor of our clients, affirming their right to compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial hardships they endured.
This result was recognized as one of the Top 20 Verdicts in Colorado in 2023, as published by TopVerdict, highlighting the significance of the jury’s decision and the impact it had for our clients.
Background
In May 2021, the clients had recently purchased a food truck from a company with the intention of launching their own small business. During their first attempt to use the truck, one of the clients tried to light the grill—only to have a hidden gas leak in the connection line trigger a sudden and devastating flash fire. Flames engulfed both individuals in seconds, causing serious injuries and halting their business plans before they could begin.
What should have been the start of an exciting new chapter became a medical emergency and a long road to recovery.
Injuries and Impact
One client suffered second- and third-degree burns to both ankles, along with permanent scarring, nerve damage, and long-term complications affecting mobility. The trauma of the incident also led to PTSD and anxiety, severely impacting day-to-day life.
The second client sustained second-degree burns to the arm and hand, as well as a torn meniscus—a knee injury that required surgery and significantly disrupted their ability to work and move comfortably.
Burn injuries can cause lasting physical and emotional trauma. The American Burn Association offers guidance on how burn injuries occur and steps to improve safety and prevention.
Medical and Financial Damages
The clients faced mounting medical expenses and loss of income in the aftermath of the fire.
- Medical expenses totaled $173,356, reflecting the surgeries, treatments, and ongoing care required for recovery.
- Past lost earnings were calculated at $200,000, representing the business and job opportunities lost due to their injuries.
- A fire safety expert and professional engineer was brought in to examine the source of the explosion and support the clients’ claims through expert testimony.
Trial and Outcome
Zinda Law Group initially pursued mediation in hopes of resolving the case without trial. However, the defendant ultimately withdrew all offers, with the last offer before trial being just $200,000—far below the value of the clients’ injuries and losses. The initial offer was even lower.
Confident in the strength of the case and the evidence gathered, our team proceeded to trial. After hearing all the evidence and expert testimony, the jury returned a verdict of $2,682,500 in favor of our clients.
This outcome reflects not only the strength of the case but also the importance of standing firm when low offers fail to acknowledge the true cost of serious injury and trauma.
Conclusion
This case is a powerful reminder of the dangers that can arise from negligent equipment. Zinda Law Group was honored to help our clients seek justice and secure the financial support they need to heal and move forward.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to unsafe equipment or premises, our team is here to help. Call (800) 863-5312 for a free consultation with a Denver personal injury attorney or visit zdfirm.com to learn more.
