The recent wildfires in Southern California have devastated families. Some people have suffered serious injuries, while others have lost loved ones. As firefighters continue their efforts, they have successfully contained the Olivas Fire, one of the most minor compared to more enormous blazes like the Palisades Fire.
Although many believe that the Olivas Fire isn’t worth mentioning, considering its size, people are now gradually starting to understand the magnitude of its impact on the affected area. As the dust settles and more information comes through, the true extent of the destruction and the long-term consequences for the community are becoming more apparent.
Ehline Law and our personal injury attorneys stand with the victims of the LA wildfires. Our hearts go out to those affected, and while we understand that no amount of money can erase the trauma you’ve experienced, it can provide the support you need to rebuild and fight another day.
Contact us to discuss your case and learn more about your legal rights!
What We Know About the Olivas Fire
On January 8, 2025, at around 8 AM, the Olivas Fire began at the bottom of the Santa Clara River near E Harbor Blvd, a place often visited by people experiencing homelessness. As the fire spread, it burned down 11 acres of land before firefighters could contain it.
Once the authorities started their investigations into the incident, they discovered the scorched body of a man who’s yet to be identified.
While no injured victims have come forward, some people have started reporting their missing friends and family members. Sadly, the discovery of a wrongful death may be just one of many in the days ahead as authorities continue their investigations.
According to a reporter at the Orange County Register, it took firefighters almost three hours to contain the wildfire that spread across Ventura County. So far, the cause of the Olivas Fire remains unknown.
Can Insurance Coverage Cover the Fire Damage Caused by the Olivas Fire?
Homeowners’ insurance is your first defense against wildfires, as it protects you financially from the damages caused. However, having the right coverage is crucial, as a basic policy may not provide compensation.
That said, not many people in Southern California have homeowners’ insurance. This is because several big insurers refused to take on new customers after the havoc wreaked by wildfires in the past decade. It could leave many injured victims in Ventura County without adequate financial support.
Even if you have the right coverage, there is no guarantee that your insurance company will process your claim. The recent estimates of $250 billion in damages caused by the LA wildfires highlight the financial challenges insurers will face in the coming weeks.
Your insurance company may deny claims or reduce payouts. While they have the right to do so, they cannot act in bad faith, meaning an insurer cannot reject claims without proper and justified reasoning.
If you believe your insurance company is acting in bad faith, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Insurance. At the same time, contact an experienced personal injury attorney for help.
Can You File a Personal Injury Claim Following the Olivas Fire in Ventura County?
Although you may be able to receive compensation from your insurance company, it may not cover all of the property damage, hospital bills, and any future medical expenses you may incur. This can leave you financially dry. Fortunately, there is another option that you can consider.
You Need to Prove Negligence If You Wish to File an Olivas Fire Claim
A personal injury lawsuit is much different than a defective product claim. In strict liability, you don’t need to prove negligence, while with wildfire suits, you need to establish liability.
When a person suffers injuries due to another person’s negligence, personal injury law allows them to file a claim or lawsuit against the negligent party’s insurance company. Did a company’s recklessness cause the Olivas Fire?
While the exact cause of the wildfires in Los Angeles and Ventura County remains unclear, similar incidents have occurred in the past, and in most cases, power companies have been to blame.
In 2018, the Woolsey Fire caused severe destruction across Southern California, destroying over 1,600 structures and burning more than 96,000 acres of land.
An investigation into the incident revealed a piece of defective equipment operated by Southern California Edison (SCE). Even after receiving multiple notices, the company failed to take action, resulting in the devastating fire.
Could the Olivas Fire Have Erupted Because of Human Negligence?
We know so far that attorneys have already started filing lawsuits against Southern California Edison for other wildfires in the region. The suits cite video footage showing sparks under transmission towers operated by the utility company. The suit also states that SCE failed to take action despite being warned by the relevant authorities.
While Southern California Edison has denied all allegations, its representatives have said that the company investigated the citizens’ concerns and found no anomalies.
Although SCE and government agencies are investigating the matter, the victims must understand that manipulating the findings of an investigative report is easy.
What does SCE have to do with the Olivas Fire? Well, it’s not just Southern California Edison that could be liable; other regional power companies may be responsible. There is a possibility that embers from distant wildfires may have traveled to Ventura County due to the gusty Santa Ana winds. An investigation could help identify the liable party, creating grounds for a personal injury lawsuit.
Fighting a suit against a large corporation without a law firm by your side could put you at a disadvantage. You may face many legal issues, as these companies work with experienced attorneys who could have your lawsuit thrown out of court.
It’s best to team up with a skilled wildfire lawyer to increase your chances of obtaining compensation. They can investigate their own to determine the liable parties and hold them accountable for your loss.
Ehline Law Teams Up with a Premier Wildfire Attorney to Help Fire Damage Victims in LA and Ventura County!
The destruction caused by the wildfires in Los Angeles has left us all devastated. At Ehline Law, we are deeply saddened and heartbroken by the images seen in the media.
I, Mike Ehline of Ehline Law, have taken it upon myself to provide fire damage victims in LA and Ventura County with the best legal representation in Southern California.
To help affected parties, I’ve teamed up with my good friend, Mr. Alan Beck, whose achievements in this field are unmatched. He is one of the best wildfire attorneys with extensive experience dealing with such cases.
Mr. Beck has won major wildfire cases, litigated many cases in this practice area, and tried all types of cases. He is known for his leadership in cases similar to Woolsey and Thomas Fires, as well as in Hawaii.
What makes Mr. Beck the best wildfire attorney I know is his dedication and compassion for the victims.
By partnering with Mr. Beck, we bring over four decades of combined trial experience and have already started working with wildfire victims. Knowing that you’re in safe hands should give you confidence.
Rise from the Ashes Stronger Than Before with Ehline Law Firm!
You’re not alone if you’ve suffered injuries in the recent LA wildfires. At Ehline Law, we’re here to get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call us at (833) LETS-SUE to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case with an expert to learn more about your legal options!
