Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims After California Wildfires

December 1, 2025

Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims After California Wildfires

Wildfires in California don’t just destroy homes and property—they also cause devastating personal injuries and, tragically, loss of life. These disasters leave survivors and families facing medical bills, emotional trauma, and the unimaginable grief of losing a loved one. Filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim can provide both accountability and compensation, helping victims and their families begin the process of recovery.

Pacific Wildfire Attorneys, we represent wildfire victims across California, fighting for justice against negligent parties such as Southern California Edison (SCE).


What Is a Personal Injury from a Wildfire?

A personal injury is harm done to a person’s body, mind, or emotions rather than property. After a wildfire, victims may suffer:


  • Burn injuries – ranging from minor burns to life-threatening third-degree burns
  • Smoke inhalation – leading to lung damage, respiratory problems, or chronic illness
  • Heat-related illnesses – including heat exhaustion or heat stroke during evacuations
  • Psychological trauma – PTSD, anxiety, or depression caused by the disaster


These injuries can require long-term medical care and leave lasting effects on a victim’s quality of life.


Wrongful Death After a Wildfire

A wrongful death occurs when someone dies because of another person’s or entity’s negligence, recklessness, or misconduct. In California, eligible family members—including parents, children, siblings, grandparents, and next of kin—may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim.

Compensation in these cases may cover:


  • Funeral and burial expenses
  • Loss of financial support
  • Loss of companionship and guidance
  • Emotional distress


Wrongful death claims not only provide financial stability for grieving families but also hold negligent parties accountable.


Southern California Edison and Wildfire Liability

In recent years, lawsuits have been filed against Southern California Edison (SCE) alleging that its equipment was defective, poorly maintained, or not shut down despite warnings of extreme fire conditions. These failures have been linked to catastrophic wildfires across California.


When utilities fail to act responsibly, they can—and should—be held liable for the devastating consequences, including personal injury and wrongful death.


How PWA Can Help

At Pacific Wildfire Attorneys, we have the experience and dedication to pursue both personal injury and wrongful death claims for wildfire victims. Our team will:


  • Investigate the cause of the fire and identify all responsible parties
  • Document medical, financial, and emotional losses
  • File claims against insurers and utilities like SCE
  • Fight aggressively for maximum compensation in court if necessary


We understand the physical and emotional toll these cases take, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.


Take Action to Protect Your Rights

If you or a loved one suffered personal injury or wrongful death due to a California wildfire, don’t wait to seek legal help. Pacific Wildfire Attorneys is here to hold negligent parties accountable and help you secure the compensation you deserve.

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