Protecting Your Future After the Fire
San Diego’s year-round warmth and stunning coastline draw people from all over the world to live and work here. However, our region’s unique climate—marked by prolonged dryness, extreme heat, and the infamous Santa Ana winds—makes us uniquely vulnerable to catastrophic wildfires.
While some fires are natural disasters, many are tragedies born of negligence. From the historic Cedar and Witch Creek fires to the intensifying fire seasons of 2024 and 2025, we have seen how utility failures and corporate carelessness can devastate lives.
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries, property loss, or displacement due to a wildfire, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys, we provide big-firm results with the dedicated, personal attention of a boutique practice.
Do not face the insurance companies alone. For a free, no-obligation consultation, call us 24/7 at (619) 404-0488.
Over $500,000,000 Won Over 25 years of experience
Wildfire Statistics & The Growing Risk
The threat of wildfires in California has escalated dramatically. According to the Insurance Information Institute, California remains the state with the highest wildfire risk in the U.S., with over 2 million homes in the direct path of danger.
The trend is alarming. Nine of the 10 largest fires in California’s history have occurred in the last two decades. The 2024 and 2025 fire seasons were particularly destructive, with fires like the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles highlighting how quickly flames can spread in urban-interface areas. In San Diego, where high winds can turn a spark into a firestorm in minutes, the margin for error is non-existent.
Because the risk is so high, utility companies, oil corporations, and government entities are subject to strict regulations. When they fail to maintain power lines, clear vegetation, or monitor equipment, they must be held accountable for the destruction that follows.
FAQ's
Absolutely. While we handle serious injury cases, property loss is a massive component of wildfire litigation. In San Diego, "canyon fires" often move faster than residents can evacuate, leading to total property loss. You can recover damages for the structure, landscaping, personal property, and "diminution of value" (loss of property value) if the fire was caused by negligence.
Not necessarily. Utility companies like SDG&E are well aware of Santa Ana wind risks. They have strict protocols to "de-energize" lines (shut off power) during high-wind events to prevent arcing. If they failed to shut off power in time, or if their equipment was poorly maintained and failed under foreseeable wind conditions, they may still be liable for the resulting fire.
Yes. If you were forced to evacuate due to a man-made fire, you can recover "Additional Living Expenses" (ALE). This covers hotel stays, restaurant meals, animal boarding, and mileage that exceeded your normal monthly budget. Keep every receipt, no matter how small.
San Diego’s military community is frequently affected by wildfires. As a renter, you have rights to compensation for your personal property (furniture, gear, electronics) and relocation costs, even if you don't own the home. If you were deployed, we can handle the legal legwork on your behalf, coordinating with you remotely to ensure your statute of limitations doesn't expire while you are serving.
Yes. Vehicles destroyed during an evacuation are part of your property damage claim. Whether it was burned on the freeway or in your driveway, the at-fault party is liable for its replacement value.
Determining Liability: Who is at Fault?
Recovering full compensation requires identifying every party that contributed to the fire. It is rarely just "bad luck."
Utility Negligence: Many of California’s worst fires were sparked by aging electrical infrastructure or failure to de-energize lines during high winds.
Corporate Negligence: Construction companies, equipment manufacturers, or private landowners may contribute to the spread of a fire through carelessness.
Government Liability: In some cases, state or municipal agencies may be liable for failures in land management or emergency response.
Comparative Negligence in California: California uses a "comparative negligence" system. This means liability can be split among multiple parties. For example, a jury might find a utility company 80% at fault and a vegetation management contractor 20% at fault.
Crucial Note: If you fail to name a responsible party in your lawsuit, you cannot recover the portion of damages assigned to them. Our attorneys conduct rigorous investigations to ensure all liable defendants are brought to the table.
Meet Our Experienced Attorneys
The Tactics Insurance Companies Use
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. Following a wildfire, they often deploy specific strategies to reduce their liability:
Low-Ball Offers: They may approach vulnerable victims immediately after the disaster with a "quick settlement" that is a fraction of what the claim is truly worth.
Recorded Statements: Adjusters may act sympathetic to get you to give a recorded statement or sign a medical release. These can be used later to devalue your injuries or argue that your losses pre-dated the fire.
The "Act of God" Defense: They may argue the fire was purely natural to avoid paying for negligence-based damages.
Our Advice: Never sign a release or give a recorded statement until you have spoken to an attorney. You have the right to say, "I want my lawyer to review this first."
Why Hire San Diego Personal Injury Attorneys?
Wildfire litigation is scientifically complex and legally dense. We understand how to analyze burn patterns, subpoena utility maintenance records, and challenge corporate defense teams.
We fight for maximum compensation: This includes medical bills, lost wages, property reconstruction, pain and suffering, and loss of sentimental items.
No recovery, no fee: We handle your claim so you can focus on rebuilding your life.