A car fire may seem like an uncommon occurrence. However, these tragic accidents may happen more than you think, and the results can be catastrophic, resulting in serious injury and death. According to the National Fire Protection Agency, in 2019, there were 189,500 highway vehicle fires, which makes up roughly 15 percent of all fire-related deaths.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car fire accident, contact William Mattar today. We can help fight for you to receive compensation for your injuries. Schedule a free consultation by completing our online contact form or by calling 844-noswap444-4444. Our car accident attorneys are available 24/7 to speak with you about your case.
CAUSES OF VEHICULAR FIRE ACCIDENTS
Most motor vehicles contain gasoline for fuel. Under certain circumstances, this flammable liquid can ignite, resulting in a serious car fire. There are a few common causes of vehicular fires, which include:
- Auto defects: Certain defects that arise in the design or manufacturing of a vehicle may increase the risk of a car fire. An automotive defect may, in conjunction with other factors such as a crash impact, trigger a fire, or create conditions that are conducive to a potential fire. These defects can include mechanical or electrical flaws.
- Motor vehicle accidents: The force of a collision can cause one or more vehicles to ignite. Components of a car, such as an engine or battery, may become damaged during impact. This can cause flammable liquids, including gas, to spill out or explode into flames.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: Neglecting to ensure your car is regularly maintained can contribute to a vehicular fire. Problems such as an engine malfunction, if unaddressed, can pose a potential danger at an unexpected moment.
- Electric system failures: The electrical system is an integral part of any vehicle. When electrical wires are faulty, they can become fire hazards.
CAR FIRE BURN INJURIES
A common injury sustained by car fire victims is a burn. Vehicle fire burns vary in severity as burns are classified by degrees, including a first, second, third, or fourth-degree burn, depending on the circumstances.
Depending on the level of severity, a burn can result in scarring. A fourth-degree burn affects all layers of the skin/tissue and can be life-threatening. Severe and deep burns can also create problems with your bones, muscles, and joints or lead to infections.
If you’ve suffered serious burns in a car fire accident, you may require long-term medical care and treatment or surgical intervention. This can cause medical expenses to pile up, leaving you overwhelmed. If another party’s negligence caused your accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A personal injury lawyer at William Mattar can look closely at your case and help determine a source of compensation.
WHAT TO DO IF A DEFECTIVE PRODUCT CAUSED A VEHICLE FIRE
If your vehicle caught on fire during or after a motor vehicle crash, there’s a possibility it was caused by a defective part, such as a leaking fuel tank. If this is the case, you may have a product liability claim against the company or manufacturer that is responsible for the defect. A defective product can result from a manufacturing or design flaw or an issue that occurred during the installation of a mechanical part.
There have been several instances of major recalls involving vehicles affected by potential fire hazards. Since 2013 General Motors has recalled approximately 38,000 cars due to a defective generator control part that may cause a fire and other risks. In 2012 Chrysler issued a recall notice for about 68,000 2010 Jeep Wranglers, which contained a similar fire danger.
If you suspect a defective product caused the car fire that resulted in your injuries, contact a product liability attorney today.
CONTACT AN EXPERIENCED CAR FIRE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY TODAY
The tragic fact is that those who are unable to escape a vehicular fire can lose their lives. If a loved one was killed in a car fire and a defective product caused the accident, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. The car fire accident attorneys at William Mattar can assist you with your claim and fight to hold those who produced the defective part accountable. Call us at 844-noswap444-4444 today to speak to an injury attorney.