What to Do If You Are the Victim of a Fire Accident

A fire accident is a terrifying event that can cause devastating consequences. In addition to property damage, a fire may result in serious injuries such as burns and smoke inhalation. Injuries may require hospitalization and a lengthy recovery process. In some cases, a person may even lose their life to a fire accident.

Fire accidents can be caused by a number of reasons, including electrical wiring issues, cooking appliances, heating apparatus and chemical hazards. Often, these accidents can be avoided with proper inspections and maintenance of the premises. However, some fire accidents are a result of negligence or reckless behavior on the part of the property owners. This may be a case of a landlord failing to inspect and maintain their property, or it could be an employee’s carelessness with flammable materials in the workplace.

Workplace fires may also lead to a variety of injuries and losses. The most common are burns and smoke inhalation. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, skin grafts, and physical therapy. Moreover, the victims of these fires may suffer from long-term psychological and emotional scarring. The loss of jobs and income due to the closure of a business after a fire is another significant loss.

Survivors of residential and commercial fire accidents may also face financial hardship after the loss of their belongings. Typically, homeowner’s policies provide replacement cost coverage for items lost in a fire. It is important to keep receipts and a home inventory to make sure all items are accounted for when the claim is settled.

When a fire occurs, the first step is to evacuate everyone from the area and call 911. Then, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately for anyone with a severe injury. If possible, it is a good idea to get pictures of the scene of the fire and to write down what occurred. It is also helpful to speak with eyewitnesses who can offer details about the incident.

It is also a good idea to consult with a skilled burn injury lawyer as soon as possible. A successful lawsuit can help victims recover damages to cover the costs of medical bills and rehabilitative expenses. In addition, a settlement can provide compensation for the non-tangible costs associated with a fire accident, such as pain and suffering. Lastly, punitive damages may be available in cases of gross and egregious negligence. This type of damage is intended to punish the negligent party for their actions and serve as a deterrent to others. Contact a burn injury attorney at Shuman Legal(r) to discuss your case. We can review your workers’ comp and insurance policy, explain your rights to compensation and the litigation process, and negotiate for the best possible settlement on your behalf. We represent clients in San Francisco and the surrounding areas.