The Los Angeles Wildfire, which devastated lives, homes and historical buildings, and left so many displaced, serves as a stark reminder that no one, not the young, nor the rich, the sick or the healthy, those established or those just starting out— is immune to tragedy.
California is a hotbed for wildfires. The arid landscape, hot temperatures and, low humidity contribute to the state’s high fire risk. During a catastrophic event like the Los Angeles Wildfire, survival is the only thing that matters. But as the firefighting efforts progress and the fire is contained, Post-tragedy paralysis may set in.
Post-tragedy paralysis is a common response during major disasters, especially when the sheer magnitude of the event hits home. This paralysis comes after the adrenaline of survival fades and there has been time to evaluate events. Post-tragedy paralysis can sometimes feel like a combination of emotional exhaustion, shock, and indecision on what to do next, which may lead to inaction.
People who have gone through such catastrophe understand that survivors experience a very real freeze after surviving a devastation such as a wildfire. Caring for oneself and ensuring the well-being of loved ones is a vital first step, but it is just as important to take the steps to recover and rebuild.
Below is a list of what to do after experiencing the devastation of a wildfire.
Immediate Emotional and Physical Care
- Acknowledge the tragedy and prioritize taking care of yourself and your loved ones.
- Understand that experiencing shock is common and part of the process.
Property Damage Assessment and Protection
- Assess the damage to your property and belongings. Determine if your property is classified as a total loss.
- Protect your property from further damage:
- Board up broken doors and windows.
- Use tarps to cover damages to the roof.
- Retain all receipts for supplies and repairs to substantiate your insurance claim.
Insurance and Legal Considerations
At CaseyGerry, we are committed to supporting fire victims by assisting with their first-party insurance claims at no cost. Our team provides this service free of charge, ensuring that you can focus on your recovery without the burden of legal fees. Your well-being is our priority, and we are here to help you navigate this challenging time.
It is highly recommended to contact a wildfire litigation attorney before filing your insurance claim, accepting a settlement offer, or signing a release of claim.
- Request a copy of your insurance policy and review it carefully:
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- Check for coverage on temporary housing, repair or rebuilding funds, and loss of personal belongings.
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- File an insurance claim by contacting your insurance carrier and reporting the loss.
- File a loss-of-use claim:
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- Per California law, insured residents can file for housing, utilities, and even food costs.
- Insurance companies may advance several months’ worth of payments.
- Maintain receipts for all related expenses.
Apply for Additional Assistance
- Apply for FEMA disaster relief (even if you have insurance).
- Explore other local, state, and national relief funds for financial aid.
Document and Organize Your Claims
- When returning to your property:
- Take photos and videos of all damage.
- Make detailed notes to substantiate insurance claims.
- Maintain receipts for all expenses, including:
- Hotel stays, meals, clothing replacements, pet care, and boarding.
- These costs may be reimbursable through insurance.
- Start a diary:
- Use your phone or a paper journal to document all the difficulties you are facing after the fire.
- This record will support your claim for emotional distress.
For Homeowners
- Contact your mortgage lender about the loss or damage to your home. Inquire about relief options, including:
- Reduced or suspended payments.
- Loan forbearance or loan modification.
- Register with the county tax office for a Property Tax Reevaluation to reduce property taxes on damaged or destroyed homes.
Additional Resources and Documentation
- Visit a Disaster Resource Center for assistance with:
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- Canceling, pausing, or transferring utilities.
- Replacing important documents, such as identification and birth certificates.
Hiring an Attorney
In the aftermath of such a devastating event, it is crucial to select the right attorney to represent your interests and guide you through the legal process. It’s important to choose someone who will handle your case individually, taking the time to understand your unique circumstances and answer all your initial questions. This personalized approach ensures that your legal representation is tailored to your needs.
Be cautious of attorneys who pressure you to sign retainer agreements without full understanding or make unrealistic promises about case outcomes. A trustworthy attorney will provide a realistic assessment based on the facts and applicable law.
Transparency is key when it comes to fees and other important information. You deserve a clear understanding of the costs involved, ensuring there are no surprises as your case progresses. By choosing an attorney who prioritizes individual attention, realistic expectations, and transparency, you can feel confident that your legal needs are in capable hands.
As you focus on recovery and rebuilding your life after a wildfire, continue to prioritize your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. The impact of an incident like a wildfire can last for years and healing from such trauma is ongoing. By maintaining a support network, and making use of available mental and emotional health resources such as therapy for yourself and loved ones, you can move towards a stronger future beyond the devastation of a wildfire.
By selecting an attorney who prioritizes your needs and offers tailored legal support, you can ensure that your rights are protected and your path to recovery is as smooth as possible.
If you have been impacted by a wildfire, or are currently in discussion over insurance claims, we encourage you to contact our Wildfire Litigation attorneys at (619) 238-1811. Learn more at https://californiafirelegalhelp.com/