The Threat of Wildfires is Spreading to the Coast
California’s coastal regions have traditionally been considered relatively safe from wildfire. However, meteorologists and climatologists, including UCLA experts, are warning of abnormal warming along the coast in 2025. Climatologist Daniel Swain noted that summer and fall could be “significantly warmer” along the California coast once May’s cloudy weather ends.
This creates a worrisome prospect: Fire season could spread to new areas, including densely populated coastal cities. These conditions necessitate reviewing legal strategies for property protection and possible compensation for damages caused by natural disasters.
Reasons for Increased Fire Danger in 2025
According to the National Interagency Fire Center, heat and the rapid melting of snow cover cause vegetation to dry out. This creates ideal conditions for fires to spread. Southern California is experiencing a deficit in precipitation, and temperatures in the Central Valley are already reaching 100°F, including:
- Sacramento
- Fresno
- Bakersfield
AccuWeather meteorologists emphasize that the presence of wind makes fires even more likely. Particularly in areas with dry grass and brush. These factors set the stage for lawsuits related to:
- Negligence
- Violations of fire safety standards
- Damages caused by the negligent actions of individuals or companies
Legal Liability for the Spread of a Fire
According to California Civil Code §1714, a person whose actions or inactions cause harm to others may be held liable. This rule applies to both individuals and companies. For example, officials have accused the energy company PG&E multiple times of causing large-scale fires. In the Butte Fire Cases (JCCP No. 4853), Pacific Gas and Electric was found liable for damages caused by a fire started when a tree fell on a wire. The court ordered the company to pay millions of dollars in compensation to the victims. This demonstrates that civil and criminal liability is possible when violating safety standards or negligence causes a fire.
Filing a Claim After a Fire
Property owners, tenants, farmers, and business owners who have suffered fire-related damage can file a civil claim for compensation. The main grounds for a claim include:
- Damage to the property
- Loss of business and income
- Evacuation costs
- Medical expenses for injuries
- Emotional and psychological distress
In addition to property damage, plaintiffs may claim moral damages if the fire caused any of the following:
- Endangerment of life
- Personal injury
- Prolonged stress
How Can Guilt Be Proven?
To hold a defendant liable, the following elements must be proven:
1. Duty of care. The defendant should have taken steps to prevent the fire.
2. The defendant breached that duty. Examples include failing to clear the area of dry vegetation or using prohibited equipment in a high-fire-hazard environment.
3. Causal connection. There must be a direct connection between the defendant’s actions and the occurrence or spread of the fire.
4. Actual damages. Property damage or personal injury.
Evidence may include:
- Witness statements
- Fire department reports
- Photographic documentation
- Expert reports and surveillance camera data
Responsibilities of Landlords and Landowners
Landlords and tenants are responsible for complying with fire codes. According to Public Resources Code §4291, they must maintain a fire protection zone within 100 feet of buildings in high-risk areas. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in administrative penalties and civil liability for damages.
Who Else Can be Held Liable?
Depending on the circumstances, the following parties may be held liable for fire damage:
- Power companies for faulty equipment
- Municipalities
- Construction contractors
- Private individuals who have conducted bonfires or used pyrotechnics
Each case requires an individual legal assessment.
What Should You Do?
If you have been affected by a wildfire, the first step is to document the damage, specifically:
- Photos and videos
- Service reports
- Medical reports
You should also notify your insurance company and consult with a qualified attorney.
Protecting Businesses From Wildfire Risks
Businesses at risk should take proactive measures. It is recommended that they:
- Develop an evacuation plan
- Review and update their insurance policies
- Conduct regular inspections of the area
- Install firefighting equipment
- Assign individuals to enforce safety standards
Employees or customers injured on the premises can sue business owners.
How KAASS LAW Can Help?
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling cases involving wildfire damage and insurance disputes. We help clients:
- Prepare and file properly drafted insurance claims
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Appeal the denial of payment
- Seek fair compensation for tangible and intangible damages
If your insurance covers fire damage, we will do everything possible to ensure you receive full compensation. If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, contact us for a consultation. We will analyze the policy terms and explain your rights. You can read our Insurance Collusion in California Wildfire Areas article, which describes the claims process in more detail.
Conclusion:
Due to the increasing risk of wildfires in California’s coastal and inland regions, residents and businesses must prepare legal defenses in advance. Negligence in this environment can result in significant losses and lawsuits. If a wildfire has damaged your property or business, or if you expect possible impacts in the coming months, contact us. Call 844-522-7752 for a free consultation. We can help you pursue insurance compensation.