As our attorneys work on Eaton Fire lawsuits with survivors, we’ve thought a lot about what people can do when the next fire happens. Many communities throughout Northern and Southern California have been forced to evacuate because of wildfires in recent years, and it’s helpful to know what to do ahead of time so you’re...
Generally speaking, wildfires tend to start in places with abundant vegetation, hot and dry conditions, and the presence of an ignition source (e.g., lightning, campfires, power lines). The wildfire can spread to nearby areas and even into residential communities. This question has been on our minds while meeting people in L.A. and discussing Eaton Fire...
Yes, insurance does provide coverage for losses in a wildfire to a certain extent. However, there are often limits to how much someone can receive. There are many cases when the insurance company’s payout falls well short of the actual cost of rebuilding, making repairs, and replacing personal belongings that were damaged or lost. This...
While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies wildfires as natural disasters, not all wildfires are the result of natural events. Forest fires and brush fires can be caused by natural events as well as human activities. There’s also growing research about how human activities can exacerbate conditions that make wildfires more likely and much deadlier....
Wildfires can be started by natural causes such as lightning strikes and human causes such as poorly controlled campfires, fireworks, lit cigarettes, arson, and negligence by utility companies. The risk of wildfires has increased in California due to strong regional winds (Diablo winds and Santa Ana winds), extreme wet and dry weather, and the effects...
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...
If you’re rebuilding after the Eaton Fire or another recent California wildfire, taxes may be the last thing on your mind. But understanding your options can make a real difference in your financial recovery. Are Insurance Proceeds Taxable? One of the most common questions from wildfire survivors is: “Will my insurance payout be taxed?” Generally,...
If you lost your home, your business, or months of your life to the Eaton Fire, you’re being asked to make a high stakes decision Southern California Edison (SCE) is rolling out a new “Wildfire Recovery Compensation Program” that promises speed and simplicity. An offer within 90 days A check about 30 days after signing...