A Closer Look at Negligence and How it Led to the Camp Fire
Alleged negligence sits at the center of the Camp Fire case, leaving many individuals in the position to file a lawsuit so that they can compensate for a variety of damages. In fact, a group of attorneys from the Bay Area gathered together to file a lawsuit in San Francisco against PG&E due to the devastation caused by the Camp Fire. The fire, which injured many people and killed over 80, is deemed one of the worst wildfires in California history and an investigation into the matter continues to this day.
The group of attorneys filed the first lawsuit two months ago claiming that PG&E acted negligently in failing to maintain its infrastructure and properly inspect/manage its power lines, and now these attorneys want PG&E to take full responsibility to cover the losses of those who have been harmed by the wildfire. Some of these damages include aspects like the homes that have been lost, personal belongings, evacuation costs, emotional trauma, loss of income, wrongful deaths, and more.
Though the cause has not exactly been determined just yet, it is obvious that PG&E has fallen under scrutiny and is looking like the likeliest suspect in the case. In fact, many attorneys have alleged that they have pretty good evidence and that the blaze broke out originally when a transmission line failed, igniting the vegetation in the area. PG&E has been blamed in the past for starting many fires and stating explosions after the past few years, with accidents taking the lives of many. At this point, it is likely that they will be found responsible for their role in the fires.
What is negligence and how does it play a role in many cases that end in tragic results for citizens every year?
A Better Understanding of NegligenceÂ
To understand how negligence plays a role in the California Camp Fire, we of course have to gain a better understanding of how negligence works. To begin, there are four elements that make up a negligence claim: duty, breach, causation, and damages. Here is each element, explained:
Duty: You must be able to prove whether or not the defendant owed you, the plaintiff, a duty of care. Was somebody supposed to act in a reasonable way but failed to do so, and it led to harm?
Breach: The court will look at whether or not the defendant breached the duty of care by doing or not doing something that led to your harm. If they were supposed to act in a reasonable manner that was expected of them but did not, this could mean that the duty was definitely breached.
Causation: You as the plaintiff must be able to show that the defendant played a role in you receiving injuries due to negligence. You must also show if the defendant could have reasonably foreseen that their actions would lead to harm, or that the accident caused damages at random.
Damages: Did you receive damages that you can actually compensate for due to the negligent acts of another party? If not, this element has not been met.
If you are able to show that PG&E acted in a negligent manner and it led to your damages, whether through a personal injury case or wrongful death, you will be able to move forward with a claim against them to compensate for your losses. At the Brady Law Group, we understand the importance of holding a party liable for their negligent actions and are here for you every step of the way when it comes to your case. Our wildfire accident attorneys have handled a variety of past cases and would like to stand by your side, whether you are filing a personal injury claim wrongful death case, or any other type of related claim. Call us today for more information on how we can assist you in your time of need at (866) 478-6483.
