The Wildfire Situation in Texas
In the Texas Panhandle, a series of wildfires broke out across several Texas counties at the end of February 2024. At least two of those fires have been linked to energy utility equipment as the source of the blaze – the 687 Reamer Fire and the Smokehouse Creek Fire. As of March, those two fires have joined to become the largest wildfire in Texas history and the second largest (by acreage) in the history of the United States.
The fires, smoke, and ash have killed thousands of livestock animals, damaged or destroyed thousands of homes and structures, and injured or affected the health of many people who live or work nearby. Unfortunately for many people, the losses they have incurred as a result of the fires may exceed or fall outside of their insurance coverage.
Fortunately, Texas wildfire victims may have options to seek compensation for their damages. Depending on the circumstances, affected Texans may seek financial damages for evacuation expenses, livestock loss, landscaping or vegetation losses, smoke damage, business interruption or loss, burn injuries, underinsured property, wrongful death, and more.
What Should Victims Do?
First and foremost, anyone in the area of an active wildfire should heed evacuation or shelter-in-place warnings whenever possible. A large wildfire is an emergency situation. However, once you and your family are safe, it is important that you get as much information as you can. While townhalls, evacuation shelters, and FEMA have worked together to provide resources, those affected by Texas wildfires have questions and need answers.
- Where can I find help?
- Will insurance cover my damages?
- Do I need an attorney?
- Do I have a claim?
- How much is my claim worth?
- How long will it take?
At Singleton Schreiber, our Texas Wildfire lawyers can help provide answers to these questions, connect you with resources, and provide some clarity in a very uncertain time.
