Californians have lost about $1 billion a year in wildfires over the past decade. That number increased recently, with insurers estimating the latest wildfires would cost them about $20 billion. If a wildfire is the result of negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation for property loss, injuries, and emotional trauma. If you have insurance for property loss, your policy may provide compensation depending on the terms of your coverage.
If an insurer denies your claim or delays payment after a devastating fire, or a person or entity causes the incident, you may be entitled to compensation for bad faith or negligence. This can come in the form of an insurance settlement or award after a jury trial. Our attorneys are committed to pursuing the full compensation you may be entitled to under the law. Let us help you understand more about the options for damages for California wildfire survivors.
Your homeowners’ insurance or business owners’ insurance is designed to pay for damage to your property after catastrophic floods, fires, and storms. Wildfires can destabilize the ground beneath your property and, if it is in hilly terrain, lead to mudslides. Fires can also destroy your personal property by burning and causing smoke damage that permeates furniture, clothing, and other possessions.
You should familiarize yourself with the terms of your insurance policy to understand what damages you are entitled to as a California wildfire survivor. You could be entitled to evacuation services, immediate funds to pay for accommodations while you and your family are displaced, compensation for outbuildings such as barns or utility sheds, agricultural losses, and lost business revenues. Your policy might also cover the cost of medical care for burn injuries or smoke inhalation.
If utility companies fail to take reasonable steps to safeguard the residents they serve, and their actions cause or contribute to wildfires in which residents suffer losses to property and health, negligence may be established. In Los Angeles County v. Southern California Edison and Edison International, plaintiffs claimed the utility company’s towers ignited the Eaton Fire, destroying more than 9,400 structures and causing 17 deaths. Residents may also file lawsuits against insurance companies—if they deny claims in bad faith or undervalue them despite policy terms—or against individuals who have committed negligent acts or deliberate arson.
Plaintiffs may recoup damages in negligence lawsuits affiliated with wildfires for:
Every California wildfire event is unique, and the damages for survivors vary. We leverage technology and our over seven decades of combined experience to advocate for you and your family.
If you have experienced loss from a California wildfire, whether through property damage, injury, or displacement, our team can help you understand your insurance rights and explore legal options if negligence may have contributed to the wildfire. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to learn more about your potential rights to compensation.
