The Fourth of July is a holiday we all celebrate with the lake, barbecues, parties, and, of
course, fireworks! While fireworks are a highlight of celebrations, they can also lead to serious
injuries if not handled safely. At LoVerde Law, we want to help you enjoy the holiday safely and
understand your options if something goes wrong.
During the 2024 holiday season, Illinois hospitals treated 156 people for injuries related to
fireworks. Common injuries included severe burns, cuts, scrapes, vision loss, and scarring, primarily
affecting hands, faces, and legs. Children and young adults are especially at risk because they typically
do not understand the full extent of the danger fireworks can present.
Illinois is one of only three states that heavily restrict or entirely ban most "consumer"
fireworks under the Pyrotechnic Use Act. Knowing what's permitted is crucial to celebrating
responsibly.
Illegal Fireworks in Illinois
Violations can result in fines ranging from $50 to $2,500, depending on the specific violation and the county.
In cases involving professional-grade or display fireworks, offenses escalate to a Class 3 felony, with penalties
up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
If you're celebrating with fireworks, follow these safety guidelines:
If you were injured in a fireworks accident, you may have the right to seek compensation
depending on how the incident occurred. Responsibility could fall on someone who used fireworks
recklessly or illegally, a property owner who failed to maintain a safe environment, a manufacturer
that produced a defective firework, or a retailer that sold fireworks without following proper safety
laws.
At LoVerde Law, we know how quickly a celebration can turn into an emergency. If you or a
loved one has been injured due to firework carelessness, our team is here to help you understand
your options and guide you through the next steps forward.
Written by Faith Dallo
