Los Angeles County Wildfire Litigation Attorneys
Recent years have brought some of the largest and deadliest wildfires in history to California. Hundreds of deaths and billions of dollars in damages have resulted.
When wildfires are caused by the actions or inactions of an individual or entity, victims are entitled to damages. If you have been injured in a wildfire or your property has been damaged, the skilled lawyers at Yuhl Carr LLP can help you seek compensation.
Negligent Parties Can Cause Wildfires
Although wildfires can be caused by natural causes, they are often caused by the negligent actions of people or companies. In the right conditions, a lit cigarette thrown into the weeds, a campfire that is not completely extinguished, or malfunctioning power lines can cause a fire.
When someone's negligence causes wildfires, a personal injury attorney like those at Yuhl Carr LLP can help victims get financial compensation to restore their homes and properties.
How a Lawyer Can Assist
A lawyer with experience in handling wildfire cases can help wildfire victims understand their legal options for pursuing compensation. People affected by wildfire suffer various losses, including:
- Property damage
- Evacuation expenses
- Lost income
- Health issues
- Burns
- Stress and mental anguish
- Wrongful death
A lawyer works with each client individually to assess losses and file a claim for fair and accurate compensation.
Wildfires Caused by Utility Companies
California utility companies have a duty to be responsible when installing, maintaining, and operating electrical facilities. If service providers fail to use the proper procedures and safety protocols, their actions are considered negligence and are punishable by the law.
For example, a wildfire sparked by a malfunctioning power line or trees in the right of way that is left untrimmed is a clear liability for the utility company.
Utility companies may admit to their role in starting a wildfire, or investigators may uncover evidence. When liability is proven, the company will be responsible for paying for damages caused by the fire.
Victims can file a claim for damages not covered by insurance. Compensation is often provided in a settlement negotiated by attorneys.
Insurance Companies and Wildfires
Even with home insurance, legal assistance provided by experts like those at our practice can help you receive the full amount you deserve.
Home and business owners in Los Angeles often have insurance that covers wildfire damage. However, companies are often reluctant to approve claims or pay the full value of your claim. Insurers typically send adjusters to investigate the property. They may find details to justify lowering claim amounts.
When insurance companies do not process claims honestly and fairly, their actions are considered bad faith insurance practices. These types of actions may include manipulating investigation findings or misrepresenting the policy.
Insurance companies that act in bad faith are breaking the law. Even when paying out on claims causes an insurance company to lose money, they are legally bound to follow the promises outlined in the policy. One option available that we might take is a formal letter that might influence an insurer to negotiate a reasonable settlement.
Yuhl Carr Has the Experience You Need
The experienced team at Yuhl Carr LLP knows how to deal with wildfire cases. We have worked alongside the best lawyers in this field on the Camp, Paradise, Thomas and Wolsey fires. Today, we are representing many clients who lost their homes in the Eaton Fire near Altadena.
Wildfires are catastrophic situations that leave countless victims in their wake. The scope of the damage may make it seem like you have nowhere to turn for help. Yet, with an experienced attorney advocating for your rights, you can get compensation for your losses in a wildfire caused by someone else's negligent actions.
The skilled attorneys at Yuhl Carr are experienced and have handled many cases involving wildfires inflicted by a negligent party. Even with insurance, discussing your wildfire damages with our attorneys is worth discussing. Contact our wildfire attorneys to learn more about how you can pursue compensation for damages caused by a wildfire.
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