Little Rock Fire and Smoke Damage Claim Lawyers
Experienced help for claims involving fire, smoke, and ash damage in Arkansas
Fire and smoke can devastate your home and belongings, leaving you overwhelmed with repairs, insurance battles, and temporary living arrangements. If you're dealing with the aftermath of a fire or smoke damage, the Little Rock insurance dispute lawyers at McWherter Scott & Bobbitt are here to offer guidance and support. We have a wealth of experience in handling fire-related legal matters and understand the complexities involved in navigating insurance claims, assessing damages, and seeking rightful compensation. From investigating the cause of the fire to negotiating with insurance companies and pursuing legal action if needed, we're committed to advocating fiercely on your behalf.
How can your Little Rock insurance dispute lawyers help after a fire?
At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, we have decades of experience helping people just like you after a fire destroys their property. Some of our results include:
- $3.9 million: Industrial Facility v. AXIS Surplus Ins. The firm represented a West TN business owner after a fire loss, and after a lengthy battle obtained a total settlement of more than $3.9 million for loss of business income and extra expense.
- $1.7 million: Our firm helped a condominium complex defend an appraisal award after three fire losses, and ultimately obtained the client a settlement for a supplemental payment of more than $1.7 million.
- $950K: John Doe v. (Certain Underwriters) at Lloyds (United States District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee). We represented the owners of a restaurant damaged by a fire. The insurance carrier originally denied the claim, but ultimately settled for $950,000+.
We can help you, too, with:
- Understanding your coverage:Fire insurance policies can be complex. We can help you understand exactly what damages are covered and ensure you file the right claim.
- Maximizing your settlement:Insurance companies may underestimate the cost of repairs or replacements. We can fight to get you the full compensation you deserve for your property and belongings.
- Dealing with adjusters:Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, not you. We can handle communication with them, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process.
- Denial of claim assistance:If your claim gets denied, we can investigate the reason and fight the denial if necessary.
Our Little Rock fire damage claim lawyers can be your advocates during this stressful time, helping you recover from the fire and get back on your feet financially.
How often do fires happen in Arkansas?
Arkansas, like many states, experiences fires regularly. Common causes of fires in Arkansas include wildfires, residential fires, commercial fires, and industrial incidents.
According to data from the Arkansas Department of Agriculture Forestry Division, Arkansas had more than 131,000 acres of wildfires between 2013 and 2021. Arkansas typically sees the most wildfires in March. They also note that other wildfires tend to happen in January, and from July to September.
The US Fire Administration also notes that Arkansas sees four deaths and six injuries per every 1,000 fires. The national average is 2.3 deaths and 7.2 injuries. Residential structure fire casualties include 13.2 deaths and 18.5 injuries per every 1,000 fires. The national average is 6.5 deaths and 20.9 injuries.
Nationwide, the National Fire Protection Association reports that in 2022, local fire departments responded to about 1.5 million fires. These fires caused 3,790 deaths and 13,250 injuries. Property damage caused by these fires is estimated at $18 billion. Other statistics include:
- A fire department responds to a fire somewhere in the US an average of every 21 seconds
- “A home structure fire was reported every 88 seconds, a home fire death occurred every three hours and fourteen minutes, and a home fire injury occurred every 53 minutes.”
- “One of every five fires (19 percent) occurred in one- or two-family homes, yet these fires caused more than half of the civilian fire deaths (59 percent) and civilian fire injuries (54 percent). The five percent of fires that occurred in apartments caused 16 percent of the civilian fire deaths and 21 percent of the injuries.”
- Over one-third of fires occurred in or on structures.
THV11 reports that statistically, unattended cooking “is considered the leading cause of fires.”
What are the causes of residential fires in Little Rock?
Residential fires can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from human error to electrical malfunctions. Some common causes of residential fires include:
- Cooking accidents: Unattended cooking is one of the leading causes of residential fires. Grease fires, food left on the stove, and flammable items near cooking appliances can all lead to fires.
- Heating equipment: Malfunctioning heating equipment such as furnaces, space heaters, and wood stoves can ignite nearby materials if not properly maintained or used correctly.
- Electrical malfunctions: Faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, damaged electrical cords, and electrical appliances in poor condition can spark fires.
- Smoking: Careless smoking, such as falling asleep with a lit cigarette or improperly extinguishing smoking materials, can lead to fires, particularly in bedrooms and living areas.
- Candles: Leaving candles unattended or placing them near flammable materials can result in fires, especially if they are knocked over.
- Children and play: Children playing with matches, lighters, or other fire-starting materials can accidentally ignite fires.
- Flammable liquids: Improper storage or use of flammable liquids such as gasoline, lighter fluid, or cleaning products can lead to fires if they come into contact with an ignition source.
- Appliances: Malfunctioning appliances, such as clothes dryers, dishwashers, and toasters, can spark fires.
- Arson: Deliberately set fires by individuals seeking to cause damage or harm are also a significant cause of residential fires.
- Holiday decorations: Overloaded electrical outlets or damaged holiday lights can ignite fires during festive seasons.
Preventing residential fires involves practicing fire safety measures such as installing smoke detectors, maintaining heating and electrical systems, using caution while cooking, storing flammable materials properly, and educating household members about fire safety protocols.
What damages can fires cause in Little Rock?
Fires can cause a devastating amount of damage, both to the structure of the home and its contents. Here's a breakdown of the typical types of damage:
- Scorch marks: Fire directly damages everything in its path, leaving scorch marks on walls, ceilings, floors, and furniture.
- Smoke damage: Smoke can infiltrate even areas untouched by flames, leaving soot residue that can stain surfaces and damage furnishings.
- Water damage: Firefighters use water to extinguish flames, which can cause significant water damage to the house's interior. Broken pipes from the fire itself can also lead to water damage.
- Weakened structure: Fire can weaken beams, trusses, and other structural components, potentially compromising the integrity of the house or structure.
- Destroyed belongings: Items directly caught in the fire are often destroyed.
- Soot damage: Smoke and soot can damage belongings beyond those directly touched by flames. They can leave a lingering odor and stain upholstery, clothing, and other possessions.
What should I do after a fire in Little Rock?
Fires can cause catastrophic damage and injuries. Our Little Rock insurance dispute attorneys suggest you take the following steps to protect yourself after a fire:
- Ensure safety: First and foremost, ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. If your home is not safe to enter or if there are any immediate hazards, stay clear until authorities confirm it's safe to return.
- Contact your insurance company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the fire and initiate the claims process. Provide them with essential details about the fire and the damage incurred. Ask for guidance on the next steps and any documentation they may require. Our Little Rock insurance dispute lawyers can help you with this.
- Document the damage: Take photographs or videos of the damage to your property, both inside and outside. Make a detailed inventory of the items that have been damaged or destroyed. This documentation will be crucial for supporting your insurance claim.
- Mitigate further damage: Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage to your property. This may include boarding up windows, covering exposed areas, or securing the premises. Keep receipts for any expenses incurred during these mitigation efforts, as they may be reimbursable by your insurance policy.
- Do not discard damaged items: Resist the urge to dispose of damaged items until your insurance company has assessed the extent of the damage. Your insurer may need to inspect the items as part of the claims process.
- Keep good records: Maintain thorough records of all communication with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Note the names of the representatives you speak with and the details of any agreements or promises made.
- Seek legal advice: If you encounter difficulties with your insurance claim or if you believe your insurer is not acting in good faith, consider consulting with our Little Rock fire insurance dispute lawyers. We can provide guidance on your rights and options and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair treatment and compensation.
- Take care of yourself: Dealing with the aftermath of a fire can be emotionally and physically taxing. Take care of yourself and your family members during this challenging time. Seek support from friends, family, or professional counselors if needed.
Remember that each insurance policy and claim situation is unique, so it's essential to review your policy carefully and follow any specific instructions provided by your insurer. Our experienced insurance dispute lawyers can provide personalized advice based on your circumstances and help you navigate the claims process effectively.
Get help from our Little Rock, Arkansas fire damage claim attorneys today
Feeling overwhelmed by fire damage and a low insurance offer? Don't fight the insurance company alone. At McWherter Scott & Bobbitt, our experienced Little Rock fire damage attorneys can help you navigate complex claims and fight for the compensation you deserve to rebuild your life. With years of experience understanding insurance policies and negotiating with providers, we'll work tirelessly to maximize your claim and help you rebuild your life. From documenting the extent of your damages to fighting for fair treatment from your insurer, we're committed to standing by your side every step of the way. To schedule a meeting with an experienced attorney, call our offices or fill out our contact form. Our attorneys are licensed in Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas, Mississippi and Missouri.