Wrongful Death Fire Claims in San Francisco
Deadly fires generally do not just happen. More often than not, a serious blaze is the result of some form of negligence. Electrical malfunctions due to poor maintenance, defective products, unattended campfires and heating equipment failure can all contribute to injuries and wrongful death. In a perfect world, every person and business would comply with the strict fire codes that are in place to ensure fire safety. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Thus, you may find yourself coping with serious loss. House fires, grass fires and gas leaks can lead to brain injuries, smoke inhalation damage and even death. If you lost someone you love due to a fire, an attorney could help you file a wrongful death fire claim in San Francisco. An attorney could investigate your claim and help you pursue financial recovery.
At Mary Alexander & Associates, P.C., our San Francisco fire claims lawyers believe in protecting the rights of survivors and victims. Our law firm knows that even a small fire can result in unthinkable loss because we have a history of successfully representing families after such losses. With a team of professionals, we can investigate every detail related to your fire damage. We work closely with you to discover who contributed to your loved one’s wrongful death. We will also gather evidence and other information needed to determine the guilt of the other parties involved in order to build the strongest case possible.
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Wrongful Death Claim?
Our attorneys understand that losing a loved one is difficult. Moreover, investigating the details of who may have contributed to a deadly fire can be emotional and stressful. As a result, you should consult with an experienced lawyer if you are considering filing a wrongful death fire claim in San Francisco. A lawyer is an objective outsider who can help you determine who is liable for your loss.
Some parties that may be liable for your claim may involve:
- Product Manufacturer: Companies that make unsafe kitchen appliances and other products can be liable in a wrongful death claim. Our San Francisco wrongful death attorneys can research technologies and reports to determine if a manufacturer can be held liable.
- Property Owner: The owner of a property is responsible for ensuring that there are working fire extinguishers and smoke detectors. Additionally, the owner of a business or private property must observe fire safety codes, maintain alarm systems and install proper signage to warn visitors of fire risks. If an owner fails to do so and a fatal fire results, then the property owner may be liable.
- Contractor: California law regulates construction standards. Thus, if infrastructure is poorly maintained — or poor architectural design — is to blame for an accident resulting in injury or wrongful death, then the builder may be held liable.
What Are Common Causes of House Fires?
Wildfires, grass fires, house fires and other fire damage are more common than you might think. Regrettably, residents and business owners of California are at high risk for fire damage. In fact, over 2 million California homes and businesses are at high risk for fire damage. Additionally, six people are killed in home fires every day with most fires overall occurring in the kitchen and involving cooking equipment. Not only are there common places for serious house fires, but also common causes for these fires. By identifying possible origins of a fires, you can bolster the strength of a wrongful death fire claim in San Francisco.
Some reasons a fire can turn deadly involve:
- Heating Equipment Malfunction: Gas leaks can go unnoticed for weeks, causing explosive gas to build up. In addition, deteriorating boiler rooms can blow if not properly serviced. It is important to stay on top of any regular inspections that need to made for heating elements and other major appliances needed to run the household.
- Electrical Malfunction: Old or faulty wiring can start a deadly fire in moments, destroying all that you depend on and hold dear. Poorly maintained electrical circuits can also contribute to fires caused by electrical malfunctions.
- Defective Product: Since so many fires happen in the kitchen, sometimes a defective product (such as an oven) is to blame. In some cases, a blaze is sparked by faulty lighting equipment. Other times, a fire can grow out of control because of a non-functioning smoke detector.
- Unattended Fires: For instance, unattended candles can cause a fire in an instant. Candle flames can lap against curtains, quickly growing into a raging deadly inferno, and potentially resulting in death or severe injury. Any unattended fire can be dangerous, even a smoldering cigarette. It is important to always be aware of your surroundings and never leave a flame unattended.
Lose a Loved One in a Deadly Fire? Our San Francisco Law Firm Offers Free Consultations
Have you lost someone close to you in a deadly fire? Do you have concerns that another party may have contributed? Confused about how to move forward with a wrongful death claim? Unfortunately, house fires, burn injuries, brain injuries and even wrongful death from a fire happen every day. Still, you can have a professional team guide you through the process of filing a personal injury and/or wrongful death claim.
Our legal team at Mary Alexander & Associates, P.C. has experience with building and defending wrongful death fire claims in San Francisco. For years, we have defended the rights of victims and survivors. While we cannot bring back your loved one, we can help you prepare for the future. If you have questions about your loss, then we are here to help. In a free consultation, we can review your claim and start building your case with the goal of providing you with peace of mind.
