Last week, Southern California Edison released a draft Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program for victims of the Eaton Fire. While it may appear to offer a path to recovery, a closer look reveals serious flaws that could limit your compensation and compromise your rights. At Danko Meredith, we believe you deserve to know what’s really at stake.
Key Concerns with SCE’s Draft Program:
No Negotiation Allowed
SCE offers one fixed amount per household based solely on ownership and total loss status. You can accept this offer or face a lengthy review process with no guarantee of a better outcome. This takes away your ability to negotiate for fair compensation.
No Independent Oversight
SCE controls the entire program with no independent third-party mediator to ensure fairness or accountability. This is a classic case of the fox guarding the henhouse: the company responsible for the fire is now controlling the compensation process.
Unclear and Unenforceable Timelines
The program does not guarantee when you will receive payment; it only suggests when SCE might send an offer. This leaves you vulnerable to indefinite delays without clear accountability.
Flat, Low Compensation Amounts
- Emotional distress payments range as low as $5,000 and often don’t reflect the full impact on your life.
- Injured children are offered a flat $15,000, which is likely insufficient.
- Partial property damage payments are capped and may not cover your actual repair costs.
- Insurance offsets apply against your total policy limits, even if you haven’t received those insurance funds, reducing your payout unfairly.
- There is no separate compensation for landscaping, fences, guesthouses, or other property beyond the main dwelling.
Renters and Others Are Overlooked
Renters receive an artificially capped amount of $50,000 (split between all residents of the rental property) for personal property losses if fully displaced, and a meager $10,000 if partially damaged. This compensation will likely fall short of actual losses for most renters.
Why You Should Think Twice Before Accepting Edison’s Offer:
SCE’s program limits your options by removing your right to negotiate and pressuring you into accepting a one-size-fits-all offer
- The program lacks transparency and independent oversight, which can leave your best interests unprotected.
- It sidelines your attorneys and the court system, making it harder for you to get full, fair compensation.
- You should talk with us before deciding to participate in the program or submitting any information to SCE. What you say or provide now could affect your rights and reduce your eventual offer. The attorneys at Danko Meredith can help you understand your rights, evaluate offers, and explore all available options.
You deserve to make informed decisions that are right for you.
Bottom Line:
SCE’s proposed program is designed to limit payouts. Victims deserve better. At Danko Meredith, we’re here to fight for the full, fair, and timely compensation you are owed. Before doing anything, talk to us. Your recovery is your decision—make it with full knowledge of your rights and options.
Don’t let SCE’s program limit your recovery. If the Eaton Fire has affected your life, contact Danko Meredith today. We’ll help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.