The Legal Process Following a Fire Accident

Fire is one of the most common disasters that can occur in your home. These tragedies are a result of human negligence, and the damage that they cause can be devastating to a family’s livelihood and emotional well-being.

Fire accidents are also incredibly costly. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to rebuild your home, repair or replace your personal belongings and possibly even relocate. In addition, your family may experience financial loss due to lost income and other expenses associated with the fire. Often, these damages are not covered by insurance, and the legal process of recovering compensation can be complicated and difficult. Fortunately, the Louisville burn injury lawyers at Sampson Law Firm are available to guide you through the recovery process.

Whether the fire was caused by faulty equipment, poor house maintenance, negligence during construction or repair or some other act of omission, there are a number of legal theories that can lead to a successful case. The most important step in any claim is to gather evidence. This includes photos, videos, and other documents that demonstrate the extent of your losses. Organize your documentation and store it in a safe place that is easily accessible.

After the fire, you will need to call your insurance agent or company to start the process of getting compensation. When it is safe, you should begin the clean-up process by removing any valuables and securing your property against unauthorized entry.

If you have sustained injuries, first aid should be administered as soon as possible. Minor burns can be treated using personal first aid techniques, while more severe burns require immediate medical attention at a hospital emergency room or urgent care center. Exposure to toxic smoke, carbon monoxide, and lack of oxygen can impair judgment and affect your ability to escape the fire.

As the heart of your home, it’s not uncommon for kitchen fires to occur in residential homes. Cooking, frying foods and the use of electrical appliances are all common causes of kitchen fires. Fireplaces and wood stoves are potential ignition sources as well. Other sources of fires include space heaters, faulty wiring and chimneys and furnaces that are not regularly maintained.

It’s essential to hire an attorney as soon as you can following a fire accident. A good lawyer will be able to thoroughly investigate the case and secure evidence to prove the extent of your losses. They will be able to obtain and analyze police reports, safety inspection reports, fire department reports and medical and forensic reports. They will also be able to assess your damages and future expected expenses including medical costs, loss of income, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. They will then negotiate with the insurance company and opposition attorneys for maximum compensation on your behalf. If necessary, they will be able to secure the services of experts to reconstruct the accident and provide expert testimony. These experts can also testify as to the amount of your non-economic damages.