According to the US Fire Administration, fire killed more Americans in 2008 than all natural disasters combined. This includes 3,320 civilians and 118 firefighters. The number of injuries is even more, with 16,705 civilians suffering injuries that occurred as a result of fire. Fires can harm people not only physically, but also financially. Fire cost American people $15.5 billion in property damage alone.

What to Do

The first thing to do if you have been involved in a fire or explosion is seek medical help. Consider all possible injuries, both external, such as bruises or burns, as well as internal, including smoke inhalation. Next, you need to find an attorney who can help as you talk with your insurance company to learn what can be compensated.

Depending on the location and severity of the fire, you may need to find a temporary place to stay. If your personal residence was affected, you may or may not be able to return to recover your personal items. Again, contact your insurance company to find how long you must be away from your house and/or belongings. With the advice of your attorney, you may need to take pictures of the damage or lost items. This can be used for insurance claims and proof of damages.

Who is Liable?

Each fire and explosion is unique, and depending on the circumstances, different people may be responsible. It can vary from your landlord to owners of defective products. You will need an experienced attorney to navigate through the evidence and find who is at fault. If your alarms were faulty, a landlord may be responsible; or if you were involved in a fire away from home, that company may be responsible.

At Barbieri Law Firm, we are devoted to help your case and find the appropriate compensation you deserve. We can help recover medical costs, property loss, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been involved in a fire, contact Heather to help ensure you are reimbursed for your losses.