Fire Hazards That Could Cause Personal Injury

Fire is a destructive force that can cause not only significant property damage but also severe personal injuries. Burns, smoke inhalation, and emotional trauma are just a few of the devastating consequences that can result from these incidents. If you or someone you care about has suffered a personal injury due to a fire caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have grounds for legal action. 

Faulty Electrical Wiring in Buildings

One of the most common causes of residential and commercial fires is faulty electrical wiring. Over time, wiring can become frayed, corroded, or overloaded, leading to short circuits and electrical fires. Property owners have a legal duty to ensure their buildings are up to code and free from electrical hazards. When a property owner fails in this duty, causing an electrical fire to start and you to suffer injuries as a result, you have the right to file an insurance claim or lawsuit against them.

Defective Household Appliances

From space heaters to kitchen stoves to clothes dryers, many appliances we use every day can spark dangerous fires if they are defective. Manufacturers have a responsibility to design and produce appliances that are safe when used as intended. When they cut corners and release faulty products into the market, innocent consumers can suffer serious burn injuries. If a defective appliance caused the fire, you can file a personal injury claim against the manufacturer, the retailer, and anyone else in the chain of distribution.

Issues with a Vehicle’s Electrical System

Just like in buildings, electrical problems in cars, trucks, and other vehicles can cause destructive fires. Damaged wiring, overheated components, and even a cigarette left burning can quickly engulf a vehicle in flames. If you are burned or suffer smoke inhalation due to a fire caused by negligent vehicle maintenance or a manufacturing defect, you can take legal action against the responsible party, such as an auto shop, car manufacturer, or vehicle owner. In the event this has happened to you whether it was a truck accident or a car accident, reach out to our auto accident attorneys in St. George today.

Lack of Fire Prevention Equipment

Another way property owners put tenants and visitors at risk is by failing to install legally required smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. This safety equipment can alert people to a fire, help control the spread of flames, and provide a means of dousing the blaze before it grows out of control. Not having these safeguards in place can lead to catastrophic damage. A property owner who skimps on this equipment may be liable for any resulting injuries or deaths.

Improper Storage of Flammable Materials

Many industrial, construction, and manufacturing environments contain flammable chemicals and materials. These must be stored properly in ventilated, secure areas to prevent dangerous fumes, leaks, and explosions. If you are injured in a workplace fire that was caused by negligently stored hazardous substances, you may file a workers’ compensation claim or personal injury lawsuit, depending on the circumstances.

Recover the Compensation You Deserve After a Fire

When a fire happens, the consequences can be devastating. But when someone else’s negligence is involved, you should not have to bear the burden alone. You deserve fair compensation for your medical bills and other damages, and an attorney can fight for the settlement that you deserve. 

A personal injury lawyer in St. George can investigate the cause of the fire, gather evidence of negligence, and aggressively pursue full and fair compensation. Do not wait to seek help—contact an attorney right away and learn how they can help you move forward after a fire-related personal injury.