How a Fire Accident Can Turn Your Life Into a Living Hell

Fire is one of the most destructive forces and it can easily turn your life into a living hell. A large number of people get injured in a fire accident each year and some even lose their lives. Injuries caused by fire accidents are usually severe and expensive, requiring long-term treatment and rehabilitation.

When you or someone you know has been injured in a fire accident, it is imperative that you consult an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible to review your case and determine your options for compensation. An attorney can help you obtain the maximum compensation available for your damages and losses, including medical and rehabilitative costs, future expected expenses and loss of income, emotional trauma, disfigurement and other non-economic damages.

Fire accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including human error and defective products. Often, these fires can be prevented by implementing proper safety measures in homes or workplaces. Some common sources of fire accidents include faulty appliances or equipment, cooking or heating apparatus, torches or other electrical devices, woodworking tools such as saws and drills, computer or other electronic devices, welding or soldering materials and other chemicals like cleaning supplies and paints.

Several types of injuries can be caused by a fire accident, including broken bones, smoke inhalation or burns. Smoke inhalation is responsible for a large percentage of deaths due to fires. The most severe and costly injuries are from burns, which are capable of causing permanent damage, pain and disability. Burn injuries often require extensive physical therapy and multiple cosmetic surgeries.

In New York City, apartment building fires are a major problem. Often these fires and explosions are due to the negligence of property owners and landlords who do not maintain buildings in safe condition. Common problems include fire alarms and sprinkler systems that are not working, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide sensors that are not functioning, doors or windows that are broken, inadequate fire-retardant material on ceilings and walls, lack of smoke and CO2 sensors in kitchen cooking appliances and many other issues.

When a fire occurs, it is important to document the scene of the incident carefully and thoroughly before any clean-up or repairs are undertaken. Detailed photographs are extremely helpful in evaluating the extent of the damage and assessing insurance claims. In addition, a thorough written inventory of all items that have been lost in the fire should be made and maintained. Taking these precautions will facilitate your interactions with fire department officials and insurance representatives and may expedite the settlement process. If you are unable to remain in your home because of the fire, it is advisable to stay with friends or family members or seek shelter elsewhere. Also, be sure to keep a log of all conversations with fire department officials and insurance representatives to ensure accuracy in records in the future.