What is the True Cost of a Wildfire in California?

After the devastation of the California Camp Fire, many researchers are asking important questions such as, “How do we avoid the horrific costs that come with a wildfire?” and, “How do we ensure that these types of events never happen again in California?” PG&E is facing liability pending the investigation of the Camp Fire that burned through thousands of acres and left many people with injuries or, even worse, took lives.

If the utility company is found responsible for the beginning of the Camp Fire, the cost of the damages could very well exceed the insurance coverage that they have to handle these matters. PG&E already spoke to the Securities and Exchange Commission about the wildfire back in November and stated that, if they are found to be responsible pending the investigation, the utility’s financial condition could be vastly and negatively impacted in many ways.

The damages that extend from a wildfire can be enormous and, even after years, what is left in the fire’s wake might not be completely cleared. According to some of the top researchers of wildfires in California, they are beginning to get costlier every single year, and there are many reasons for this. In fact, fighting wildfires before they occur is now seen as an investment. In 2017, the U.S. Forest Service actually spend an all-time high of $2.9 billion to combat fires so that they would be prepared for such acts.

Why is it So Expensive to Combat California Wildfires? 

There are many factors that contribute to the rising costs of combating wildfires in California. You are probably already aware of the fact that there have been many drastic changes in climate, which means that fires have been burning on wider swaths of land. California has also been experiencing more frequent and longer dry seasons. This is due to the fact that the summers have been lasting longer and temperatures have soared to all-time highs that many would have never expected.

The way that homes are laid out in an area can affect how expensive the damages will be as well. For instance, if homes are dispersed all throughout one area in an urban setting, there is a chance that it will be more difficult to stop the fire as it spreads from home to home, gaining momentum as it rips through an entire town or city. It is easier for one unit to be doused rather than many altogether in one area. Because of this, those living in close communities run the risk of losing their homes and their livelihood, everything they have left behind. This was the case for Paradise, whose town was vastly impacted by the Camp Fire.

In many parts of California, there continues to be a huge risk for these horrific fires that sometimes begin due to the negligence of others. PG&E could be left to entirely foot the bill, which could lead to many different outcomes, from bankruptcy to individuals not receiving the damages they deserve to move forward. At the Brady Law Group, we understand in many ways how a wildfire can be one of the most devastating things that you and your loved ones will ever experience. Luckily, help is on your side. Our experienced California wildfire attorneys are here for you throughout many aspects of your case, from those who have suffered the loss of a loved one to those who have been injured or had to leave their family home. Contact us to find out how we can help in your time of need at (866) 478-6483.