Altadena Wildfire Lawyers

with over $750 Million Recovered in Compensation for Injury Clients.

Recover Lost Wages, Property Damages, and Medical Fees.

We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.

Our Altadena Wildfire Lawyers Offer Legal Guidance Rooted In Experience

Wildfires only leave devastation in their wake. They destroy property, displace families, and create uncertainty about what the future holds for affected individuals. Navigating insurance claims, healthcare needs, and legal issues after such a disaster is never easy. There is no need for you to handle everything on your own.

At Arash Law, we help wildfire victims seek damages for their injuries, lost properties, and other losses. Our team is experienced at handling negotiations with insurance companies and navigating the legal process. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers are here to provide guidance on your next steps. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.

Why Work With Arash Law’s Altadena Wildfire Lawyers

Our Altadena wildfire attorneys understand the complex legal issues that can arise after such an incident. We are experienced in pursuing claims against parties who may be responsible for your losses. Our attorneys will advocate on your behalf at the negotiation table or in court, if necessary.

Financial barriers shouldn’t bar injury victims from protecting their rights to file a claim. Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis. While other case-related costs may still apply, we do not require clients to pay lawyer fees up front. We only get paid if we resolve the client’s case through a settlement or verdict.

Contact us to schedule a free case review. Our wildfire lawyers in Altadena are here to guide you through the legal process and help you explore your options moving forward.

Personal Injury

$41,950,000.00

An attack that took place when a homeless man used an unsecured baseball bat in the Walmart store to attack a husband and wife who were shopping nearby. The jury found that Walmart was 50 percent liable for the attack, and the amount of the judgment against the company exceeded $30,000,000.

– BRIAN BEECHER

How Our Wildfire Attorneys Can Help You

Our wildfire injury attorneys are here to guide you, help protect your rights, and pursue fair compensation. Here’s how we can help:

Navigate The Legal Process — We break down complex legal jargon into clear, understandable terms, so you’re never left in the dark about your case. From filing essential paperwork on time to meeting critical deadlines, we handle every detail with precision and care. We strive to keep you informed and involved throughout your case.
Investigate And Gather Evidence — Our lawyers work to determine the cause of the wildfires, identify responsible parties, and gather key pieces of evidence. We can also collaborate with skilled investigators, fire experts, and forensic specialists to build a compelling case on your behalf.
Craft Tailored Legal Strategies — Every case is unique. Our attorneys work closely with you to craft a personalized approach that aligns with your specific needs and circumstances. Your voice matters, and we’re here to advocate for you at every stage of the process.
Negotiate And Represent You In Court — Our Altadena wildfire lawyers are committed to helping you seek compensation. Our lawyers have extensive experience in high-stakes negotiations and are prepared to take your case to court if necessary.

Our wildfire lawyers stand by your side. With our experience and support, we aim to assist you with the challenges ahead.

The Greater Los Angeles Wildfires Affecting Altadena

Southern California is grappling with multiple wildfires, including the Palisades Fire and Eaton Canyon Fire, as of January 30, 2025. These blazes, fueled by dry conditions and powerful Santa Ana winds, have caused widespread destruction. They have forced evacuations, displaced thousands, and left behind a trail of devastation. According to the County of Los Angeles Department of Medical Examiner, the wildfires have claimed the lives of 29 victims and damaged over 16,000 structures as of 8 am on January 28, 2025.

Palisades Fire — The Palisades Fire has prompted evacuations along the Pacific Coast Highway and in Malibu and Santa Monica. The fire’s rapid spread has overwhelmed firefighting efforts and placed countless homes and businesses at risk.
Eaton Fire — The fire ignited in Eaton Canyon, located in the San Gabriel Mountains, on the evening of January 7, 2025. Evacuation orders have been sent to communities in Altadena, Pasadena, and La Cañada Flintridge.

Causes of Wildfires

Wildfires are often sparked by human activities or environmental factors, with dry conditions and high winds acting as accelerants. Here are some of the most common reasons wildfires occur:

Human Activities

Whether through negligence or deliberate actions, human involvement accounts for a significant number of wildfires across the country. These are some of the human-related causes of wildfires.

Unattended Campfires — Campfires left burning or not fully extinguished can ignite surrounding dry vegetation. Even a small ember can spark a massive blaze under the right conditions.
Discarded Cigarettes — A single lit cigarette, when thrown into dry grass or brush, can lead to a rapidly spreading fire.
Equipment Malfunctions — Sparks from machinery, such as lawnmowers, chainsaws, or vehicles, can ignite fires, especially during dry and windy weather. Hot engines parked over dry grass can also lead to ignition.
Fireworks And Outdoor Activities — Fireworks, particularly in dry seasons, can cause accidental fires. Similarly, outdoor activities involving grills, sparks, or open flames can result in unintended wildfires.
Arson — Motivations for arson vary, ranging from malicious intent and criminal activity to psychological disorders like pyromania. Regardless of intent, the consequences are devastating.
Poorly Maintained Power Lines — Utility companies may fail to properly inspect or upgrade aging infrastructure, leading to sparks during high winds or storms.

Environmental Factors

These environmental factors play a significant role in the ignition and spread of wildfires:

Extreme Heat — Rising temperatures accelerate moisture loss from soil and vegetation. Dry trees, shrubs, grass, and plant debris are highly flammable.
Lightning — When lightning strikes the ground, it generates an intense burst of heat that can ignite dry vegetation such as grass, leaves, or trees.

Our Altadena injury law firm can collaborate with fire investigators, environmental experts, and forensic specialists to uncover the root cause of the wildfires. We can help you pursue claims against the negligent corporations, individuals, or entities that contributed to the disaster. Our wildfire lawyers in Altadena can help you gather the evidence needed to strengthen your case.

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My husband had an accident 2 years ago, a 85 years old man hit him, the Arash law group works very well on my husband case that took 9 month and he won the case and my husband was happy with the results. A year later I got into an accident as well and I’m still waiting in my case is almost resolving and it’s 9 months already. This people knows the law and they do their job right to help you out in getting the most for you to fight on your behalf. I strongly recommend the Arash Law firm they do things right in a efficient and professional manner.

Had a great experience with all the people at Arash law. Long story short was in a bad car accident. It was overwhelming and the whole process was a lot, but they kept me in the loop. They answered all my questions and gave me great advice. Couldn't be any happier. Would definitely recommend anyone looking for a personal injury lawyer. They'll guide you through the whole process!

Having Arash Law handle my auto accident was the best decision I could have made. Everyone I interacted with was kind, professional and detail oriented. I am extremely happy with the outcome and would recommend them highly.

From start to finish, Arash Law firm is there every step of the way with close, constant, personal contact and attention. I never knew a Law firm could actually care so much for me as a person and what I was personally going through as well as the settlement I was going to recieve once my case was finally completed. Thank you to everyone at Arash Law for your ongoing support and communication. You are the ONLY firm I will ever recommend to someone who is need of a great attorny.

I had an excellent experience with Arash Law. I will definitely recommend to my family and friends. I interviewed a few firms before deciding to work with Arash Law. What made my experience excellent was (i.e. head attorney being accessible to talk to and he answered all my questions and concerns, sensitive and thorough personel who completed in home intake & follow up process, being connected immediately to quality Physicians who addressed my injuries and recovery process, clear contract-read throughly to ensure its something you can commit to). Being in a car accident is a traumatic experience and I had a sense of peace knowing Arash Firm was walking with me throughout the whole process. Thank you Arash Firm for all your hard work and help. I am so grateful and appreciative for you all! 🙏 With Gratitude, Monica Parra

How Our Altadena Lawyers Determine Liability In Wildfire Cases

Not all wildfires are caused by negligence. For instance, fires resulting solely from natural causes may not qualify victims for personal injury claims. To pursue a valid claim, liability must be established. In California, liability is based on negligence, meaning an individual or entity that caused or contributed to the wildfire can be held financially responsible for the victim’s losses.

Our Altadena wildfire attorneys can help you prove the following elements of negligence:

Duty of Care — The defendant had a responsibility to avoid actions that could cause harm. For example, individuals and businesses must avoid risky activities that could ignite a fire.
Breach of Duty — The defendant failed to uphold their duty of care. For instance, they may have conducted an illegal burn that rapidly spread.
Causation — The breach of duty directly caused or contributed to the wildfire.
Damages — You incurred losses due to the wildfire. Examples include medical expenses, property destruction, emotional distress, or lost income.

In some cases, the concepts of strict liability and inverse condemnation may apply. Under inverse condemnation, publicly-owned utilities (POUs) and investor-owned utilities (IOUs) in California are treated as public entities and held strictly liable for damages. They can be held responsible for wildfire-related damages.

Affected property owners may seek compensation for their losses, including the value of destroyed property, physical damage to structures or land, and economic losses such as lost rental income or business revenue. Inverse condemnation ensures that utilities bear the financial responsibility for the destruction caused by their operations.

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Types Of Damages In Wildfire Cases

Wildfire victims may be entitled to compensation for a wide range of damages, depending on the circumstances of their case. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers can help you file a claim for the following:

Economic Damages

Economic damages reimburse victims for the measurable financial losses caused by a wildfire. They include:

Property damage costs, such as repair or replacement of homes, vehicles, and personal belongings. It also includes cleanup and restoration costs for debris, soot, and ash removal.
Lost wages and business interruption costs, including income lost due to injuries or displacement, lost profits, or operational costs for businesses disrupted by the wildfire.
Living expenses, such as temporary housing, food, transportation, and other costs incurred while displaced.
Medical expenses, such as costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments for wildfire-related injuries. It also includes future medical expenses for rehabilitation or long-term care.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the victim’s emotional and intangible losses. Here are some examples:

Pain And Suffering — Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life caused by injuries or trauma.
Mental Anguish — Damages for PTSD, anxiety, depression, or other psychological impacts caused by the disaster.

Our wildfire attorneys in Altadena are dedicated to helping victims pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. We meticulously evaluate all losses to help you pursue a fair settlement for your injuries and losses.

Insurance Policies And California Wildfires

Wildfire damage is typically covered under the fire and allied perils clause of most insurance policies. The exact coverage you have depends on the specifics of your plan, but it may include the following:

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage is a critical component of your home insurance policy, designed to cover the cost of rebuilding or repairing your home and any attached structures, such as decks or garages, after a wildfire. Your dwelling coverage limit is foundational to your insurance policy, as it often determines the limits for other coverages, such as personal property, additional living expenses, and detached structures.

Other Structures Coverage

This coverage pays for the cost of rebuilding or replacing unattached structures on your property damaged by wildfires. Examples are sheds, detached garages, fencing, and pool houses. If your property has multiple detached structures, such as a gazebo or workshop, it’s important to have sufficient coverage to rebuild them if needed. Typically, coverage is set at 10% of your total dwelling coverage limit.

Personal Property Coverage

Personal property coverage helps pay to repair or replace your belongings if they are damaged in a wildfire. Some examples are items such as appliances, clothing, furniture, and electronics. With an HO-3 home insurance policy, personal property coverage is generally set at 50% to 70% of your total dwelling coverage limit. For high-value items like jewelry or artwork, consider adding a scheduled property endorsement to your policy for coverage.

Loss-Of-Use Coverage

Also known as additional living expenses (ALE), loss-of-use coverage helps pay for the costs you incur if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a wildfire. It includes expenses for temporary housing, meals, and other necessary living costs while your home is being repaired or rebuilt. Usually, policy limits range from 20% to 30% of your dwelling coverage limit.

Tips For Wildfire Preparedness And Evacuations

When facing wildfires, preparation and quick action are essential to staying safe. Here are some practical tips to help you prepare and evacuate effectively:

Pack And Prepare In Advance — Time is critical during an evacuation. Pre-pack essential items such as important documents, medications, and valuables. Keep your go-bag in an easily accessible location, like your car.
Evacuate Early — Don’t wait until the last minute. Firefighters cannot save homes if they are rescuing people who delayed evacuation. Early evacuation increases your safety and gives responders more time to protect your community.
Don’t Stay Behind To Face The Fire — It’s dangerous to try to defend your home. Municipal water and power systems often fail as fires approach, leaving you without resources. Prioritize your safety and evacuate when advised.
Prepare Your Vehicle — Park your car facing out of the driveway and keep it out of the garage, as power outages may trap it inside. Ensure that the fuel tank is full and keys are readily available.
Secure Pets And Animals Early — Animals often become anxious and difficult to manage as fire approaches. Secure them in travel crates or on leashes well in advance, even if it means keeping them contained longer than usual. This ensures they’re ready to go when you are.
Document Your Home — If time permits, record a quick video walkthrough of your home. This footage can serve as an inventory for insurance claims, which can be used as evidence of the properties you’ve lost.
Prioritize Irreplaceable Items — Focus on grabbing items that cannot be replaced, such as photo albums, family heirlooms, or keepsakes. Essentials like clothing and toiletries can be replaced later, but sentimental items cannot.

Being proactive and prepared can make a significant difference in a wildfire situation. Call our wildfire attorneys in Altadena at (888) 488-1391 if you wish to learn more.

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Franchot M.

$610,000

Personal Injury Settlement

Our client was the victim of a rear-end accident who was left injured and severely in pain. Arash Law was able to outshine other injury law firms when he searched online, and thankfully we were able to handle everything for our client from A to Z — All that he had to do was ask and focus on his recovery. Our client’s life has changed forever, and the compensation received for the pain and suffering has opened paths for new lifelong opportunities.

Personal Injury Settlement

Filing A Wildfire Insurance Claim

Properly preparing your claim is crucial to increasing your chances of securing a fair settlement. We recommend doing the following:

Document Your Losses — Create a detailed list of damaged or destroyed property, including personal belongings, and estimate their value.
Gather Supporting Evidence — Collect deeds, receipts, invoices, and any records that prove ownership and the value of the lost items. You can also use photos, videos, or physical evidence to support your claim. If you have pre-loss documentation, include that as well.
Track Medical Expenses — Save all records of medical treatment related to injuries or health issues caused by the wildfire.
Contact An Attorney — Work with experienced Altadena wildfire lawyers to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights. Fill out our “Do I have a case?” form, and our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Deadlines For Wildfire Claims

Here are the key timeframes you need to know:

Insurance Claims — Insurance providers typically require you to file a “notice of loss” within 30 to 60 days, depending on your policy.
Personal Injury Lawsuits — The statute of limitations sets strict deadlines for filing wildfire-related cases in California. You have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
Property Damage Claims — For property-related losses, the statute of limitations is three years from the date the damage occurred.
Government Claims — If your claim involves a state or local agency, you must file an administrative claim within six months.

In some cases, exceptions or extensions may apply, but acting quickly is important to protect your rights. Delays may affect your chances of pursuing damages. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers can assist with filing your claim on time. To avoid missing critical deadlines, reach out to our team for guidance.

Workers' Compensation

$6,000,000.00

A young roofing contractor fell through a defective skylight at a commercial building. This case dealt with very technical legal issues, particularly, the defendants were alleging a defense under the Privette doctrine, which is designed to protect them from this exact type of fall. Despite the heavy legal defenses available, Benny and his team were able to prevail and secure this settlement for a deserving client.

– BENNY KHORSANDI

California Wildfire Statistics

In 2024, 8,110 wildfire incidents in California burned over 1,077,711 acres. These fires destroyed 1,837 structures, damaged 644, and left more than 2,481 properties affected. The toll of these wildfires extends far beyond statistics. Families were displaced, lives were lost, and many Californians faced the daunting task of rebuilding their homes and communities. The emotional and financial burdens have left countless individuals struggling to move forward.

The 2024 wildfire season was fueled by an unusually wet winter and spring, which led to dense vegetation growth. The intense June heat exacerbated the situation, making the area dangerously prone to ignition. Areas below 3,000 feet were particularly vulnerable, where the dense undergrowth exacerbated rapid fire spread.

Among the thousands of incidents throughout the year, the Park Fire stood out as a particularly devastating event. Ignited on July 24, 2024, in Chico’s Bidwell Park, the fire was allegedly caused by an act of arson. Despite aggressive initial attack suppression efforts, the fire rapidly expanded, ultimately consuming 429,603 acres across Butte and Tehama counties. The Park Fire led to the destruction of 713 structures and damage to 57 others, prompting widespread evacuations and the temporary closure of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

These figures show just how devastating wildfires can be, affecting not only homes and property but also the lives and livelihoods of countless individuals. The toll can feel insurmountable, especially for those left grappling with displacement, injuries, or the loss of loved ones. Our Altadena wildfire attorneys are here to help victims navigate the challenges that come with such disasters. We provide comprehensive legal services to help you pursue monetary compensation for your losses under the full extent of the law.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Do I Need An Altadena Wildfire Attorney?

You might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer to help me with my case?” Wildfire damage claims are often highly complex, often involving multiple liable parties, such as utility companies or individuals whose negligence contributed to the fire. These entities may have powerful legal teams and insurers working to minimize their payouts, making it difficult for victims to navigate the process alone.

If you don’t have insurance, an attorney can help you file a claim directly against the responsible parties. Whether the fire was caused by faulty equipment, inadequate maintenance, or intentional acts like arson, we’ll work to help you explore potential legal avenues to seek damages.

Even if you have insurance, it doesn’t guarantee full compensation for your wildfire losses. Many people file claims only to realize they’re underinsured, i.e., their coverage is insufficient. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers can assist you in pursuing compensation and work to identify any potential gaps in your damages.

How Much Time Do I Have To File A Claim With My Insurance Company?

The timeline for filing an insurance claim depends on your specific policy, so it’s essential to check your policy and contact your insurance company as soon as possible to confirm their requirements. Prompt action is crucial. Delays in filing could complicate matters if you need to pursue legal action for fair compensation. Our Altadena wildfire attorneys can help you navigate the claims process and take timely action to protect your rights.

I’m Not Sure If I Have A Case. Do I Have To Pay A Fee Just To Have An Attorney Review My Case?

No, you don’t have to pay a fee for an attorney to review your case. We offer a free initial case evaluation to help you determine whether you have a viable claim. During this initial review, our Altadena wildfire lawyers assess the details of your situation, answer your questions, and provide guidance on the next steps. Our goal is to make legal support accessible, and if we take your case, you won’t pay anything unless we resolve your claim through a settlement or verdict. During your consultation, it’s advisable to ask a lawyer about their fees and claim-related costs you may need to cover, depending on your case.

If I Do Have A Case, How Long Does It Take To Resolve A Lawsuit? When Should I Expect To Receive Compensation?

Every case is unique, so it’s impossible to guarantee a specific timeline for resolution. Wildfire cases may take a while to resolve. It’s case-by-case; some settle quickly, while others can take longer. If you have questions about what to expect in your specific situation, our Altadena wildfire lawyers can help you understand the factors that may affect your case timeline.

Can I Sue For Wildfire Damages If I Rent My Home?

Renters can still experience significant losses in a wildfire and may be eligible to seek compensation. While renters’ insurance might cover some personal property losses, it often falls short of covering the full extent of damages. Our Altadena wildfire lawyers can help you pursue compensation for your damages after a wildfire.

I’m Not Sure I Can Afford To Pay Two Years’ Worth Of Legal Fees. What Are My Options If My Case Can’t Be Resolved Swiftly?

Most personal injury lawyers, including our wildfire and car accident lawyers, work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any upfront costs or ongoing legal fees while your case is being resolved. Instead, we only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you, taking a percentage of the settlement or award as our fee. You can discuss these fees, case-related costs, and any other expenses with our Altadena wildfire lawyers during your initial consultation if you decide to move forward with your case.

Call Our Wildfire Lawyers Altadena

If you or your loved ones have been affected by the devastating wildfires in Altadena, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At Arash Law, we assist wildfire victims and their families in seeking potential compensation. From lost property and business interruptions to emotional distress and medical expenses, we can help you pursue a fair payout for your injuries and losses, as allowed by the law.

Our experienced Altadena wildfire attorneys have the knowledge, resources, and determination to help you hold negligent parties accountable. We’ll handle the legal complexities so you can focus on moving forward from the fire.

Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Altadena lawyers also handle other types of personal injury claims, including Uber accidents, truck collisions, and car crashes. We offer our services in Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles, and the rest of California.