Los Angeles Fire Accident Attorney

Common Types of Explosions that Lead to Apartment & Rental Unit Fires

A fire or explosion accident can be devastating and sometimes deadly. 

Numerous factors can lead to a house explosion, including:

• Gas leaks: Damaged gas lines, faulty appliances, and poorly installed systems can lead to dangerous gas buildups. 
• Combustible products: Many common household products and materials are flammable or combustible, posing a serious risk if not handled properly. 
• Faulty appliances: Water heaters, furnaces, and boilers can explode due to over-pressurization, mechanical failure, or lack of maintenance. 
• Electrical malfunctions: Electrical faults and short circuits can ignite flammable materials, leading to explosions.

Taking the necessary precautions to prevent these common causes of explosions is essential. Regularly maintaining gas and electrical systems, properly storing flammable materials, and following best safety practices can prevent a residential explosion.

Can I Sue My Landlord if No One is Injured in a Fire?

You may have a claim for the loss of your personal property and constructive eviction due to a fire–even if no one is injured.

A fire that destroys your apartment or rental home–even without bodily injuries–is a serious, life-changing event.  Watching everything you love and care about in your home destroyed by fire is incredibly impactful.  Fires aren’t just about the loss of couches and televisions; they are about the loss of memories, dreams, and ideas, both big and small.

The statistics paint a grim picture: in 2020 alone, 372,000 residential fires caused 11,825 injuries and a tragic 2,615 deaths – a 10% increase in fatalities over a decade. While the financial toll reached a staggering $8,604,400,000, the true cost of these fires, the human suffering and loss, cannot be measured in dollars.

At Riley Ersoff, we understand that these aren’t just numbers. They represent real people whose lives have been irrevocably altered by fire. We fight for those who have been injured, for the families who have lost loved ones, and for everyone who has suffered because of someone else’s negligence.

What if I Have Renter’s Insurance?

Even if you recover under your renter’s insurance policy, you can still sue your landlord or other careless landlords for your losses.

The fact that you’ve submitted a claim or have been paid under your renter’s insurance policy is irrelevant.  Under the collateral source rule, you can effectively recover your damages twice–once under your renter’s policy and again against your landlord or other defendants.

Can Riley Ersoff Help Me if Someone I Love Has Been Injured or Killed as the Result of a Fire?

Wrongful death and burns from fires can result in unbearable emotional harm, life-long physical injuries, and financial burdens that can be almost too much to bear.  Of course, any time a fire causes death or personal injuries, you need to hire a proactive and talented LA fires lawyer.  Riley Ersoff is that firm.

We have years of experience litigating high-stakes catastrophic injury, wrongful death, and personal injury claims.  We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of those injured by careless, negligent, or abusive landlords, individuals, and corporations.  

Structure fire cases can be complex, so you need an experienced lawyer willing to help you from start to finish. Call us at (888) 658-9695 or send us an online message today for a free consultation with a wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do After a Fire Accident in California?

Your safety is the priority. If you’re in immediate danger, evacuate the premises and call 911. Once you’re safe, seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re injured. Some injuries, like smoke inhalation, may not be immediately apparent. Document the scene with photos and videos, if possible, and report the fire to your landlord and insurance company. Finally, contact Riley Ersoff as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

What are the Most Common Injuries in Fire Accidents?

Fire accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, including:

• Burns: These can range from minor first-degree burns to severe third-degree burns requiring extensive medical treatment.
• Smoke inhalation: Inhaling smoke can damage your lungs and airways, leading to respiratory problems and even death.
• Other injuries: Fire accidents can also cause broken bones, head injuries, and psychological trauma.

What Are a Landlord’s Responsibilities in a California Fire Accident?

California law requires landlords to maintain their rental properties in a safe and habitable condition. This includes providing working smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clear escape routes. If your landlord’s negligence contributed to the fire, they may be held liable for your injuries and damages.

How Does Renter’s Insurance Work with Fire Accident Legal Claims in California?

Renter’s insurance can help cover some of your losses after a fire, but it may not be enough to compensate you fully. A legal claim can help you recover additional damages, such as pain and suffering and lost wages.

What is the Statute of Limitations for Fire Accident Claims in California?

In California, you generally have two years from the date of the fire to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing this deadline.

How is Compensation Determined for California Fire Accident Claims?

You may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical expenses: Past and future medical costs related to your injuries.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical and emotional pain caused by the fire.
• Lost wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to your injuries.
• Property damage: The value of your personal belongings that were damaged or destroyed in the fire.
• Emotional distress: Compensation for the psychological impact of the fire.

Can I File a Lawsuit if a Third Party Caused the Fire Accident in my California Rental?

If a third party, such as a contractor or neighbor, caused the fire, you may be able to file a claim against them as well.

Can I Sue After a Fire Accident in a Shared Apartment in California?

Yes, you may be able to sue your landlord or roommate if their negligence contributed to the fire.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Fire Accident Lawyer in California?

At Riley Ersoff, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you only pay us if we recover compensation for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn more about our fees.