Wildfires can level homes and businesses, but they are especially destructive to the agricultural industry. Farms and ranches can lose not only the family home but also millions of dollars worth of livestock and crops.
If your property was destroyed, it is important to understand the legal options for farmers and ranchers after California wildfires. There could be more than one path to compensation beyond filing a claim with your insurance company. Our experienced team at CaseyGerry has guided clients through complex, high-loss wildfire cases for decades. We’re here to help you understand your legal options and navigate the path forward. Reach out to discuss your case.
Before you can explore the legal options for your farm or ranch after a California wildfire, you must first get a clear picture of what you have lost. As soon as it is safe to do so, conduct a thorough inspection of the property and document the damage. This includes everything from destroyed buildings to lost crops or livestock.
An inventory of all the losses will be invaluable no matter which path you take for compensation. In addition to tracking things such as destroyed structures or lost livestock, it can be helpful to take extensive photos and videos of the damage.
It may be necessary to rely on the experience of professionals in this area. Veterinarians and agronomists could help put a dollar value on the damages you sustained. An experienced attorney could use their background to connect you with the right team of people.
Most farm or ranch owners in California rely on their homeowners’ or business insurance policies to cover the cost of a wildfire, but you may need help understanding your legal options. Insurance coverage is a complex issue. There are a variety of coverages and exclusions that vary from one policy to another, and understanding them is critical. These details could be the difference between securing benefits and paying for the loss yourself.
You have the right to seek legal representation when dealing with your insurance company. An attorney can communicate with the adjuster on your behalf, helping ensure your claim is handled fairly while you focus on recovery.
The specific terms of your policy will go a long way toward determining what you ultimately recover. This is true not only for the type of coverage you have but also for your policy limits. Your lawyer could review the fine print and answer any questions you might have along the way.
One of the most important legal options that California farmers and ranchers have after a wildfire is filing a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party. In some situations, your attorney could develop a case for negligence against the individual or entity who is responsible. In fact, claims against utility companies could result in compensation without the need to prove negligence at all.
These lawsuits often require extensive investigation, industry experts, and a deep understanding of utility liability laws. CaseyGerry brings decades of experience in holding large corporations accountable for systemic failures.
It is vital that you move quickly, given that strict legal deadlines apply to each case. A lawyer can help ensure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations (legal deadline) and guide you through the civil process based on your circumstances.
It is understandable to have questions about legal options for farmers and ranchers after California wildfires. These are serious matters, and the outcome of your insurance claim or legal case can have a major impact on your future.
We’re here to help you make informed decisions based on your unique circumstances. With decades of experience, the legal team at CaseyGerry can support you in navigating your insurance or legal claim with confidence. Reach out today to discuss your options during a private consultation.
