What Happens If You Are Injured in a Fire Accident?
During a fire accident, a person can suffer serious injuries. The injuries can be extremely painful and may require multiple treatments over many years. In some cases, the injuries can lead to a permanent inability to work. Moreover, the cost of medical expenses can consume most of a person’s finances after a fire. It is important to understand that people who suffer from fire accidents may be entitled to compensation.
Fire accidents are usually caused by negligence. This negligence can be accidental or willful. In addition, the person or entity that caused the fire may be responsible for the injuries. For example, if a fire is caused by a faulty product or appliance, the person or company that made the product can be liable. Fires can also be caused by defective lighting equipment, improperly maintained heating and cooling equipment, and other types of equipment.
If a person is injured by a fire accident, they should hire an attorney that has experience in handling fire accidents. An attorney who is familiar with fire accidents can help the injured person collect evidence and document the injuries. Organizing timekeeping records and taking photos of the injuries are important parts of documenting the injuries. Also, make sure that you take copies of the medical records and diagnostic tests. You should also include information about the extent of your rehabilitation program.
Some of the common types of equipment used in fires are faulty electrical wiring, candles, and space heaters. Fires can also be caused by overloaded circuits. This can occur when a person plugs too many appliances into an outlet or when a landlord or property manager fails to perform regular inspections on electrical wiring. These types of fire accidents can cause severe property damage.
In addition to property damage, fires can also lead to death. According to the Centers for Disease Control, smoke inhalation is one of the main causes of deaths in fires. Smoke contains toxic gases. This can cause serious breathing problems and suffocation. Symptoms may include headaches, coughing, and fluid in the lungs. Smoke inhalation can occur immediately after a fire or may take longer to develop.
Fires can also occur at homes, apartment buildings, and other commercial properties. Many of these fires are caused by a careless property owner, who fails to perform maintenance on underground equipment. Failure to inspect and maintain electrical and gas lines is also a common cause of fires. In some cases, fires can result in explosions. The explosions may lead to death and burn injuries. In other cases, the explosion may cause significant property damage.
Another common cause of fire accidents is smokers. People who smoke can set a fire anywhere, from a chair to a bed. The smoke is extremely hot and can cause burns to the nasal passages and lungs. Smokers should also be careful not to put ash in their trash can. Aside from the smoke, the ash is flammable. Smokers should also ensure that their cigarettes are placed in a metal container filled with water.