As the festive season approaches, many of us look forward to the sparkle and spectacle of fireworks. Whether it’s Bonfire Night, New Year’s Eve, or another winter celebration, fireworks are a popular way to mark the occasion. But while they can be beautiful and exciting, they also carry risks—and unfortunately, accidents do happen.
At FJG, we understand how distressing these incidents can be. We also know that pursuing a legal claim afterwards isn’t always straightforward. That’s why we’ve put together this guide: to help you understand the risks, your rights, and the steps you can take if you or someone close to you is injured.
Common firework injuries
Even when safety measures are followed, fireworks can still cause harm. The most common injuries we see include:
- Burns and scarring – often caused by direct contact with flames or clothing catching fire.
- Impact injuries – such as blunt trauma or penetration from misfired rockets or falling debris.
- Eye injuries – including foreign bodies, burns to the cornea, and in severe cases, partial or total loss of sight.
- Hearing damage – sudden loud explosions can lead to tinnitus or permanent hearing loss.
- Psychological trauma – some people experience anxiety or post-traumatic stress following a serious incident.
We always encourage people to attend professionally organised displays, where safety protocols are in place and technicians are trained to manage risks. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) provides clear guidance on firework safety, and we recommend following it closely.
Who might be legally responsible?
If you’ve been injured by fireworks, one of the first questions we’ll help you answer is: who is legally responsible? This can depend on where the incident happened and how it occurred. Here are some of the possibilities:
Public event organisers
Organisers of public displays have a duty of care to attendees. If they fail to follow safety regulations or don’t take reasonable steps to protect spectators, they may be liable. Most commercial organisers will have public liability insurance, which can be crucial when making a claim.
Private individuals
If someone sets off fireworks at a private event and causes injury through negligence, they could be held responsible. These cases can be more difficult, especially if the individual doesn’t have insurance.
Manufacturers and retailers
Sometimes, the firework itself is defective. In these cases, the Consumer Protection Act 1987 allows injured parties to bring a claim against the manufacturer, importer, or retailer—without needing to prove negligence.
Criminal acts
Sadly, fireworks are sometimes misused deliberately. If someone throws a firework at another person or uses it as a weapon, this is a criminal offence. Victims may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA), especially if the perpetrator is prosecuted.
Why firework claims can be challenging
Even when the injury is serious and someone appears to be at fault, firework-related claims can be complex for a variety of reasons.
Identifying the right defendant
At public events, responsibility might lie with the display company, the landowner, or a contractor. At private gatherings, it could be an individual who doesn’t have insurance. Establishing who was in control of the fireworks is often the first hurdle.
Preserving evidence
Fireworks are short-lived, and evidence can be lost quickly. If packaging is thrown away or damaged clothing is discarded, it can weaken a claim. We always advise keeping any relevant items, taking photos of the scene and injuries, and gathering witness details.
Contributory negligence
Defendants may argue that the injured person contributed to the incident—for example, by standing too close, ignoring safety instructions, or handling fireworks themselves. If this is proven, it could reduce the amount of compensation awarded.
Criminal use
If a firework was used deliberately to cause harm, the success of a civil claim may depend on police involvement and whether the offender is identified. Even if there’s no conviction, a civil claim may still be possible, but it’s more difficult. CICA can offer an alternative route to compensation in these cases.
Insurance issues
Private organisers may not have public liability insurance, which can make it harder to recover compensation. On the other hand, professional organisers are usually insured, which gives claimants a clearer path forward.
Time limits
Most personal injury claims must be started within three years of the incident. But because evidence can disappear quickly, it’s important to act as soon as possible. Delays can make it harder to build a strong case.
What you should do if you’re injured
If you or someone you care about is injured by fireworks, here are some practical steps to take:
- Seek medical attention immediately and keep records of all treatments.
- Preserve evidence – keep damaged clothing, firework packaging (if safe), and take time-stamped photos or videos of the scene and injuries.
- Get witness details – names, contact information, and any statements they’re willing to provide.
- Collect organiser or occupier details – including company names and insurance information if the incident happened at a public event.
- Report criminal incidents to the police – this is essential if the firework was used deliberately or illegally.
- Speak to a solicitor promptly – we can advise on your options, help preserve evidence, and guide you through the legal process.
Comment
At FJG, we understand how upsetting and disruptive firework injuries can be. Our No Win No Fee personal injury team is experienced in handling these types of claims with care and professionalism. We’ll work with you to:
- Identify who is legally responsible.
- Preserve and analyse key evidence, including arranging expert reports if needed.
- Advise on time limits and alternative routes to compensation, such as CICA.
How can we help?
Rhian Lowe is a Partner and Head of our Civil Litigation Team specialising in medical negligence and personal injury.
If you have any queries on the above subject, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Rhian on 01206 835300 or complete our online enquiry form.