Maui Fire Lawyers Gather Evidence
In large-scale wildfire cases, determining the cause is often difficult. Firefighting efforts and the need to make areas safe for residents can disrupt or destroy evidence. Additionally, many wildfires occur in remote locations and are often the result of a combination of factors. A mixture of climate change and poor land management create tinderbox conditions; imperfect response or lack of preparedness multiplies the human cost; and sometimes, power lines and other infrastructure created by the electric utility company play a significant role in starting and spreading the flames.
In the case of the Lahaina fire, Maui fire lawyers for the victims are looking into whether or not a damaged electrical line was the spark that ignited the flames and destroyed homes, businesses and lives. Lawyers are working to identify witnesses, review reports and collect data. They are also interviewing eyewitnesses and analyzing video footage.
The class action lawsuit filed against Hawaiian Electric claims the company failed to take adequate steps to protect the public and reduce the risk of wildfires. It cites numerous instances and documents in which Hawaiian Electric officials acknowledged the fire risks on Maui, including the potential for downed lines and grid infrastructure to start fires. But the lawsuit claims the company did not include modernization of the infrastructure in its budget or spending plans.
How Do Maui Fire Lawyers Gather Evidence in Large-Scale Wildfire Cases?
It also alleges that the company did not implement Public Safety Power Shutoffs, which California has used for years as part of its fire prevention strategy. This type of shutoff allows for the temporary isolation of power lines in an area to limit their exposure to the flames. It could be used to protect vulnerable populations such as the elderly or those with health issues.
The lawsuit also alleges that the company did not use warning sirens during the Lahaina fire, which is required by state law. It says the company cited a state directive that emergency sirens are only to be used during tsunami emergencies, not wildfires.
As the search for victims continues, cadaver dogs are searching every single-story home in the disaster area, and crews are now moving to multistory homes and commercial properties. A team specializing in cellular analysis is also helping in the effort to find missing persons by using data to identify their last known location.
The devastating impact of a wildfire is felt far and wide, from the physical destruction to the emotional turmoil and loss of life. Families are often left with nothing, losing everything they spent a lifetime earning, saving and cherishing. A wrongful death or injury lawsuit can help survivors receive compensation and prevent such a tragedy from occurring again. Our experienced Maui fire lawyers are ready to hear about your losses and how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free consultation. We handle personal injury and wrongful death cases on a contingency fee basis. That means we don’t get paid unless you do. Call now or fill out our online form to get started.