Los Angeles, CA – January 17, 2025 (Ehline Law) – Ehline Law, a leading personal injury law firm serving clients across California, extends its legal expertise to those impacted by the recent Hurst Fire and other wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura County.
As the community comes to grips with the devastation caused by these fires, Ehline Law extends deep sympathy for those affected. The firm remains committed to helping victims seek justice and fight for the compensation they deserve.
The Hurst Fire: What We Know
The Hurst Fire began in the Sylmar area of Los Angeles, igniting from a small flame and rapidly spreading due to strong Santa Ana winds. Within 10 minutes, the fire set over 50 acres of land ablaze, prompting evacuation orders that displaced nearly 3,000 residents by January 8, 2025.
As of January 16, firefighting efforts have successfully contained 95% of the fire. However, the wildfire has scorched over 800 acres, destroying property, displacing livestock, and reducing structures to ashes.
Many residents are returning to their homes—or what remains of them. They have to confront the harrowing aftermath of the LA wildfires, including missing loved ones and health risks such as inhalation injuries from the thick, chemically-laden smoke.
Other Fires We Are Actively Suing Over?
Navigating Fire Recovery in California: A Guide from Ehline Law Firm
In these trying times, focusing on actionable recovery steps is crucial. Here at Ehline Law Firm, we want to give you the information needed to rebuild and secure the assistance you deserve. Here’s how to navigate through this challenging period:
1. Immediate Actions for Recovery
- FEMA Assistance: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply for financial aid, which includes help with temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related costs.
- Insurance Claims: Call your insurance company as soon as possible to kickstart the claims process. Be thorough and document your losses with photos, videos, and detailed lists.
- Small Business Administration Loans: If you’re a business owner, the SBA has your back with low-interest loans for recovery. Check out SBA Disaster Loans or call 1-800-659-2955.
2. Unemployment Assistance:
Did you lose your job due to these wildfires? Unemployment benefits might be your lifeline. Go to the California Employment Development Department at www.edd.ca.gov to apply.
3. Avoid Scams and Fraud
Scammers love chaos, so keep your guard up:
- Verify Identities: Be skeptical of anyone claiming to be from FEMA or insurance companies. Always ask for ID and verify credentials before you spill any personal beans.
- Report Suspicious Activity: Do you smell a rat? Call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or visit justice.gov/disaster-fraud.
- Research Contractors: Make sure those repair folks are licensed and reputable. Don’t hand over all your cash at once.
4. Be Aware of Price Gouging
Some will try to exploit the situation with hiked-up prices. California law says no to this during emergencies:
- Report Price Gouging: If you spot it, report it to the California Attorney General’s Office at 1-800-952-5225 or oag.ca.gov/report.
5. Shelters and Housing Assistance
Need a roof over your head? Here’s where to look:
- Red Cross Shelters: Find a place to stay at Red Cross Shelters or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (733-2767).
- Local Resources: Dial 2-1-1 or check out 211 LA County for local shelters, food banks, and emergency services.
- Airbnb: They’re partnering with 211 LA to provide free temporary homes. Learn more at Airbnb.org.
- Recovery Resources: The Los Angeles County Emergency Management Office has a wealth of info at recovery.lacounty.gov.
6. Property Tax Relief
If your property’s been hit, you might qualify for some tax relief:
7. School Closures and Educational Resources
Schools closing due to the fires? Here’s how to stay on top of changes:
- School Updates: Check lacoe.edu for news on closures and alternative education.
- Local District: Get the specifics from your local school district about reopening and remote learning.
8. Crowdfunding and FEMA Assistance
Crowdfunding? Be careful:
- FEMA Rules: Funds from crowdfunding can affect FEMA aid, so keep records detailed and purposes clear.
9. Additional Resources
Here are some more places for help:
10. Recovery Information
Stay updated:
11. Essential Tips for Managing Recovery
- Dedicated Email: Create an email like (your home address)@gmail.com for all recovery communications.
- Recovery Credit Card: Use a separate card to track all recovery expenses.
- Mailing Address: Update your address or get a P.O. Box for secure mail handling.
At Ehline Law Firm, we’re here to guide you through this. Remember, you’re not alone; together, we’ll rebuild stronger.
A Commitment to Justice
“Seeing the impact of the Hurst Fire on the people we know and care about has truly been heartbreaking,” said Mike Ehline, founder and lead attorney at Ehline Law. “We remain steadfast in helping our community rebuild and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.”
Ehline Law has partnered with Mr. Shawn Caine, one of California’s premier wildfire attorneys with extensive experience successfully litigating wildfire cases. Together, the team has more than six decades of trial expertise, and we have already begun assisting LA wildfire victims.
How to Seek Legal Help
If you or your loved ones have suffered injuries or property damage due to the Hurst Fire, Ehline Law is here to help. Call (833) LETS-SUE to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
About Ehline Law
Established in 2005, Ehline Law is a top-tier personal injury law firm known for its relentless advocacy for accident and disaster victims across California.
With a proven track record of success and over $150 million in financial recoveries, the firm remains committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation to help affected victims rebuild their lives and get back on their feet.
Contact:
Mike Ehline
Founder and Lead Attorney
Ehline Law
Phone: (833) LETS-SUE
Email: [Insert Email Address]
Website: https://ehlinelaw.com/
