In early 2025, two devastating wildfires—the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire—swept through Los Angeles County, forcing tens of thousands to evacuate. The Eaton Fire scorched over 14,000 acres in and around Calabasas, destroying more than 9,000 structures. The Palisades Fire, which burned across Topanga, Pacific Palisades, and parts of Malibu, destroyed nearly 7,000 structures and displaced entire communities.
But while flames were the most visible threat, many injuries occurred during evacuation, and some victims are just now realizing that they may have legal options.
The Overlooked Reality: Evacuation Injuries
Wildfire evacuations are chaotic and dangerous. Beyond property loss, many residents suffered:
- Slips, trips, and falls while fleeing
- Back and neck injuries from lifting valuables or helping elderly family members
- Car crashes in smoke-filled or poorly managed evacuation routes
- Burns or respiratory issues from flying embers or poor air quality
- Emotional trauma or PTSD from the event
Most people don’t realize that these injuries are often preventable—and legally actionable.
Insurance Claims Denied or Delayed? You Still Have Options
Many homeowners and renters have now received insurance denials or underpaid settlements related to these fires. But your rights don’t stop there.
If someone else’s negligence contributed to your evacuation injury—or your insurance company failed to act in good faith—you may still have a valid legal case.
🔍 Did You Know? California Law Protects Fire Victims
- DID YOU KNOW that under California Civil Code § 1714, property owners can be held liable for injuries on their premises—even during an emergency—if they failed to keep it safe?
- DID YOU KNOW that utility companies can be held responsible for wildfires through inverse condemnation, even if not negligent? This doctrine is supported by California Constitution Article I, Section 19 and cases like Barham v. SCE.
- DID YOU KNOW that if a city or county created a hazardous condition during evacuation, you may have a claim under California Government Code §§ 835–840.6?
- DID YOU KNOW that if your insurance company delayed or denied a valid fire-related claim, you may be entitled to damages under California Insurance Code § 790.03(h)?
Who Can Be Held Legally Responsible for Fire-Related Injuries?
Every wildfire case is different, but here are some of the most common liable parties:
1. Utility Companies – If faulty power lines or transformers caused or worsened the fire.
2. Property Owners, Landlords, or HOAs – If blocked exits, poor lighting, or unsafe walkways made evacuation dangerous.
3. Drivers – If another driver caused a car crash during evacuation.
4. Public Agencies – If evacuation was delayed or unsafe conditions were created through negligence. Some claims can be filed with timely notice.
5. Insurance Providers – If they acted in bad faith or failed to honor valid claims.
Communities Impacted by the Eaton and Palisades Fires
If you or a loved one was injured while evacuating from any of the following areas, you may have grounds for a personal injury or property claim:
- Calabasas
- Agoura Hills
- Hidden Hills
- Topanga Canyon
- Pacific Palisades
- Malibu
- Westlake Village
- Ventura County foothills
We are actively reviewing cases from these regions and helping families recover damages.
FAQs
Q: My injury didn’t happen from flames—just during evacuation. Can I still sue?
A: Yes. If your injury was caused by unsafe conditions, poor planning, or another person’s negligence, you may have a valid case.
Q: What if I didn’t seek medical attention right away?
A: Delayed symptoms are common—especially with back injuries, anxiety, or PTSD. You may still be eligible to file.
Q: I rent my home. Can I sue the landlord or HOA?
A: Absolutely, if unsafe conditions on the property contributed to your injury during evacuation.
Q: I only speak Armenian—can you help?
A: Yes. Our team proudly serves Armenian-speaking residents in Calabasas, Glendale, Encino, and surrounding communities. We’ll walk you through the entire legal process in your preferred language.
Get the Legal Support You Deserve
If you were injured while evacuating the Eaton Fire or the Palisades Fire in early 2025, don’t assume it’s “just part of life.” You may be entitled to real compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Psychological trauma
- Insurance bad faith damages
Let us help. We offer free consultations and speak English, Armenian, Spanish and Farsi.