Deadly Wildfires: Can You File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit?

Los Angeles and California as a whole is no stranger to wildfires and the fatalities and damages that come along with the destructive force of nature.

Despite many thinking that it’s impossible to hold some party in particular accountable for a wildfire’s damage or even wrongful death of their family members, what many don’t realize is that there are actually multiple parties that can be held liable for causing a fire.

“Wait, but isn’t wildfire a natural disaster?” you may be thinking.

And while you’re right, a wildfire is a natural disaster and it’s unlikely that someone started the wildfire intentionally, multiple parties can still be held liable for failing to prevent the devastating fire.

One of deadliest wildfires in California history

Earlier in October, one of the deadliest wildfires in California history wreaked havoc in Santa Rosa, killing at least 42 people and leaving over 200 pending reports of missing people.

The negligence of PG&E, electric company, is being reportedly cited as a possible cause of the wildfire after the company allegedly failed to properly maintain its power infrastructure.

While the investigation is underway to either prove or disprove this theory, victims are already filing lawsuits against the company.

If the investigation finds PG&E liable for unintentionally causing the destructive wildfire in California’s wine county, the company may be required to pay compensation to the victims of the wildfire, including those filing wrongful death claims to pursue damages for:

• Funeral and burial expenses;
• Medical bills associated with the victim’s death (hospitalization, treatment);
• Loss of earning potential;
• Loss of wages, income and other benefits provided by the victim;
• Loss of services, care, and assistance provided by the victim.

Although no money in the world can bring back your loved one killed in a wildfire, you’re entitled to financial compensation for your emotional trauma, grief, funeral expenses and other losses and damages associated with the death.

Wildfire litigation is complex, yet there’s a way to win compensation

Consult our Los Angeles wrongful death attorney at Kristensen Weisberg, LLP. to file a wrongful death claim and seek justice and compensation for your losses. Remember: you’re not alone in this bottle.

Kristensen Weisberg has taken on big companies and even governments time and time again. Our law firm has established a solid reputation across Los Angeles, as our wrongful death lawyers will fight tooth and nail to investigate your claims and represent you in your best interests.

Wildfire claims involve complex litigation, and a wrongful death lawsuit is the last thing any company would want, which is why negligent parties and their insurance companies may attempt to meddle with the investigation to avail themselves of the liability and/or minimize the compensation.

With the help of an experienced wrongful death attorney in Los Angeles, you can ensure that your case is being properly handled to get you a significant compensation for your losses and damages.

Multiple parties may be held accountable for wildfires, including but not limited to: electric companies, utility companies, tree trimming companies, wiring companies, as well as agencies and federal, state, county, and city governments.

If your loved one has been killed in a wildfire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Los Angeles wrongful death attorney to discuss your best strategy. Filing a wrongful death lawsuit in wildfire litigation is all about timing and professional handling of the case.

Our attorneys in Los Angeles and across California have obtained six and seven-figure verdicts and settlements on behalf of surviving family members, and you’re entitled to get a fair compensation, too.

Contact the Law Offices of Kristensen Weisberg today by calling at 310-984-1297 or complete this contact form to get a free case evaluation.