The Injuries Suffered by Victims of the Dixie Fire

The Dixie Fire has destroyed more than just acreage and property. Victims of the fire suffer from numerous types of economic and non-economic damages.

Displacement

Over 26,000 Californians have been evacuated from their homes, forced to relocate amidst the destruction of their communities. It’s uncertain whether their houses will survive the blaze, and if they do, what conditions they’ll be in. PG&E should be held accountable for any emotional and financial harm it allegedly caused.

Job Loss

This displacement not only rips victims from where they feel safest but also prevents many individuals from going to work, putting many Californians in financial crises. Still more wonder if their employers will be able to recover from the catastrophe and if they’ll even have a job after the fire is extinguished. These concerns are compounded for those whose financial security depends on land and livestock they had to leave behind. Job loss and income have been put at risk by PG&E’s alleged negligence or misconduct.

Smoke Inhalation

Evacuation may ensure residents’ survival, but it doesn’t guarantee their health. Smoke from the Dixie Fire has polluted air as far as Salt Lake City, where small airborne particulate levels are more than 3 times the federal standard.

When wood and other organic materials burn, fine particles enter the air and can penetrate deep into victims’ lungs, which can aggravate chronic heart and lung diseases. The smoke can also cause nose irritation, itchy eyes, and other inflammatory symptoms. Victims facing long-term exposure to the smoke could develop more critical conditions like respiratory conditions and cancer. PG&E should be held responsible for costs related to these illnesses and conditions based on its alleged negligence or misconduct.

Mental Health and Emotional Distress

Many victims of the Dixie Fire face significant trauma in addition to physical loss. Sources from the National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder found that 10 to 30 percent of wildfire survivors develop diagnosable PTSD or depression, and another 50 percent experience less severe cases that fade over time. PG&E is responsible for any mental anguish, distress, and non-economic damages it allegedly caused.

Your Advocate

If you or a loved one is a victim of the Dixie Fire, the team at Kershaw Talley Barlow is here to advocate for you. We recognize the damages you’ve suffered due to PG&E’s alleged negligence or misconduct are sensitive and complex, and our compassionate team is here to ensure you receive deserved compensation.

Call Kershaw Talley Barlow at (916) 520-6639 to schedule a free consultation.