New York summer holidays will never be the same again. For the first time since the 1940s, fireworks are legal in the state and they can be found in retail stores all over. Backyard birthday celebrations, high school parties and even cocktails will, for the first time, have a tinge of sparkles and loud blasts. This could pose a new threat to people’s safety.

Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law a bill that permitted specific fireworks-related items throughout the state for counties that opted in on the law. Already, more than 31 counties have opted in, including Ontario, Essex, Madison and Orange counties. Party poppers, sparklers and snappers are now legal in many parts of the state. The news could not come at a better time for retailers.

Previously, New York residents would have to travel to neighboring states during their summer holidays or around the Fourth of July to purchase the firecrackers. Thousands of dollars in revenues were spent in neighboring cities each year – and all local retailers could do was watch.

This year, retailers finally have a shot at their share of the pie, and they are more than ready to compensate for the lost years. From Walmart to Target to Hannaford, stores are stocking shelves full of red and sparkly yellow boxes with labels that read “BOOM!” Demand for the firecrackers has hit the roof, leaving many parents concerned about the safety of their loved ones – and rightfully so.

Recently, professional football player Jason Pierre-Paul got his right index finger amputated after a July Fourth fireworks accident. Additionally, in Maine, an experimenting 22-year-old was killed after setting off a firework that was perched on the top of his head.

The National Fire Protection Association reported that firecrackers alone are the cause of 12,000 emergency room treatments every year. In 2011, close to 18,000 fires were traced back to fireworks, resulting in the loss of millions of dollars in property, hundreds of severe injuries and eight deaths. Fireworks are dangerous and they can kill.

New York law only allows fireworks for counties that have opted in on the law. This means they are still illegal in New York City. The law also limits the fireworks allowed to sparkles and poppers; this means no big bangs and definitely no missiles.

Additionally, residents can be held liable for any injuries to persons or property caused by their use of fireworks. Damages for these personal injuries can be harsh and often run into thousands of dollars.

Do not just blindly purchase, distribute or hold for sale any firecrackers. You could face severe jail time. Know whether the fireworks are legal in your city and whether they are the type of fireworks allowed under the law.

If you or anyone you love has been injured by someone else’s negligent use of firecrackers, it’s important that you have a talk with an attorney who is both knowledgeable and experienced in this field of personal injury and who can get you a just settlement for all your heartache.

The team at LaDuca Law Firm is just what you need. With over forty years of experience fighting for civilian rights in personal injury cases, the firm is passionate about serving justice where innocent people have been wronged and hurt. Call us today to discuss your case or schedule a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to ensure you get the justice you deserve.