Suing After a Fire in New Jersey – The Basics Pertaining to Your Rights as a Victim

Fires are capable of causing serious injuries in New Jersey. These injuries can affect not only your physical well-being, but also your emotional and psychological well-being. Burns can be disfiguring, leaving you with lowered self-confidence and all kinds of issues. It may be more difficult to find a job with facial burns, and it can be even more challenging to find a romantic partner. These injuries can also be incredibly costly, with plenty of medical expenses, missed wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses. But the worst possible consequence of a fire is death. Many family members have lost loved ones in fires, and it can be difficult to move on after such a tragedy. 

The real question is whether anyone is to blame for these consequences. Can you sue a negligent party for causing your fire? The answer may surprise you, as a range of misconduct and recklessness can easily lead to fire injuries. In order to determine whether you can sue for your fire injuries, you need to get in touch with an experienced personal injury attorney in New Jersey. Our legal professionals can assess your unique situation and determine whether you have the opportunity to sue. From there, we can help you gather evidence and negotiate for a fair settlement. If necessary, they can also represent you in court during a trial. Due to the statute of limitations, it always makes sense to get in touch with a lawyer as soon as possible. 

Family Sues Landlord and Firefighters After Death of Teen

On July 29th, it was reported that a family in Franklin Borough had sued their landlord and the local fire department for a fire that claimed the life of their 13-year-old child. They allege that the fatality was fully preventable, and that a range of negligent actions led directly to the tragedy. 

According to these parents, the smoke detectors failed to work properly at the time of the fire. This, they claim, was the result of their landlord failing to conduct a proper inspection before they moved in. They also pointed their finger at the local fire department, highlighting the fact that these first responders forgot to bring a ladder to the fire and stood around the home for an extended period of time before entering. Perhaps most notably, this lawsuit points out that the firefighters who showed up came straight from a local celebration that involved the consumption of alcohol. The family is seeking an unspecified amount for pain and suffering. 

Two Individuals Charged After Setting Woman on Fire with Fireworks

On July 28th, it was reported that two North Jersey teens had been arrested in connection with a firework-related incident that left a woman in flames. The teens threw a firecracker out of a moving Jeep, striking a 53-year-old woman and briefly setting her on fire. They were charged with aggravated arson, and the woman was treated for second-degree burns to her arm. Aerial fireworks and firecrackers are illegal in New Jersey, adding to the seriousness of this situation. It is unknown whether the injured woman will sue her attackers in civil court, although almost certainly has the opportunity to do so. 

Fire Trucks Can Cause Injuries as Well

It is also worth pointing out that fire trucks can cause injuries as well. Sometimes, a fire can cause you harm even when you are driving miles away from the incident. This occurred on January 19th of 2022, when a fire truck barreled through a red light and smashed into a passenger vehicle. Two people were killed in the crash. On August 1st, it was reported that the driver of the fire truck would be facing criminal charges for their negligence. According to an investigation, the fire truck was not just going through a red light – it was also driving in the wrong lane. 

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

If you have been searching the New Jersey area for an experienced personal injury attorney, look no further than Lependorf & Silverstein, P.C. Over the years, we have assisted numerous injured plaintiffs, and we know how serious fire injuries can be. With our assistance, you can hold negligent parties accountable for causing the fire. You can also receive compensation for damages, including missing wages, medical expenses, emotional distress, and much more. Remember, internet research is only the first step. In order to take real action, you will need to book your consultation. Reach out today to get started with an effective action plan.