New Jersey Fire Department Sued for Being Too Slow

Fires can cause all kinds of injuries in New Jersey, from smoke inhalation and burns to slips and falls. If you were injured in a New Jersey apartment fire, you already know how traumatic and life-threatening these situations can be. After a fire, you might face various losses, including property damage, medical expenses, missed wages, and more. You might also face non-economic damages, such as PTSD and disfigurement. After a fire caused by negligence, you might be able to file an injury lawsuit against a landlord – or the manufacturer of a defective product. As one recent story highlights, you may also have the right to sue a local fire department for being too slow.

Clifton Fire Department Accused of Waiting Outside While Victims Died

In June of 2024, a New Jersey man filed a lawsuit against the Clifton Fire Department, arguing that his three relatives lost their lives because they failed to act quickly enough. The lawsuit claims that the firefighters were dispatched too late to make a difference.

In addition, the plaintiff states that even when the firefighters arrived at the scene, they stood outside and did not enter the premises “for an extended period.” Finally, the plaintiff alleges that the firefighters did not even attempt to use their ladders – but news footage seems to show a ladder propped up against the structure while it burned.

Landlord and Insurance Company Also Named in Lawsuit

The plaintiff alleges that other parties shoulder the blame for this atrocity, which claimed the lives of his brother, his sister-in-law, and his sister-in-law’s mother. His nephew narrowly escaped death, managing to escape the burning building – only to watch helplessly from outside as his family perished in the flames. The son is now struggling with psychological issues, and he has lost all of his personal belongings. Needless to say, he has also lost his home.

The landlord of this property has been named as a defendant in the lawsuit. The plaintiff argues that the fire was worsened by faulty smoke detectors, which didn’t work and should have been replaced or repaired by the landlord. He also alleges that the fire was sparked by a faulty air-conditioning system. The landlord has been accused of failing to place fire extinguishers within the home. Finally, there are indications that the exits and entrances in the home did not adhere to fire safety codes.

But perhaps the most notable defendant in this case is the insurance company attached to this case. The home insurance company has been accused of intentionally losing or destroying key evidence – namely the burnt air-conditioning units attached to the wrecked structure. The plaintiff argues that this machinery could have provided the authorities with clues about what sparked the fire. However, these units have reportedly disappeared. The insurance company has chosen not to comment on this developing case.

What Damages Can I Claim After a New Jersey Burn Injury?

You can claim various damages after suffering burn-related injuries. These damages fall into two categories: Economic damages and non-economic damages. In terms of economic damages, you might experience a loss of income due to your burn injuries. Your injuries may require months of recovery, and you might not earn any wages during this period. You might also incur serious medical expenses – especially if you have suffered severe burns. If you have lost a loved one in a fatal fire, you may be able to recover compensation for funeral costs. Finally, you could pursue compensation for any destroyed items lost in the fire.

Non-economic damages are psychological in nature. Disfigurement is a common non-economic damage after a fire, as your burns may never truly heal. Burns can take a toll on your mental health and your sense of self-identity. Other non-economic damages include depression, anxiety, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and PTSD.

Find an Experienced Burn Injury Lawyer in New Jersey

If you’ve been injured in a New Jersey fire, you may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit against various negligent parties. You might already have an idea of what – or who – caused the fire. However, it might be difficult to identify potentially negligent parties without assistance from a personal injury lawyer. These legal professionals can not only help you figure out who caused the fire, but they can also help you hold these parties accountable. Reach out to Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. today to continue this important discussion in more detail.