Fires are among the most destructive and traumatic accidents we see. They often erupt without warning—caused by faulty wiring, gas leaks, defective appliances, code violations, or simple negligence in maintaining a property. When safety measures fail, the results can be catastrophic: severe burns, smoke inhalation injuries, and permanent disabilities.

At Morris James, we represent individuals and families who have suffered life-altering harm in fire accidents. We know the toll these events take, not just physically, but emotionally and financially. Our role is to uncover what went wrong, hold negligent parties accountable, and fight for the resources you need for ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term security.

Building Strong Fire Injury Cases

We work with leading fire investigators, engineers, and medical experts to build strong cases. Whether the fire occurred in a residential building, workplace, or public venue, we focus on identifying every liable party and maximizing recovery for our clients.

Contingency Fees and No-Risk Consultation

We handle major fire accident cases on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing up front, and our fees only come from a successful recovery. This approach ensures that every family has access to quality legal representation, regardless of financial circumstances. Your first consultation is always free and carries no risk. When you contact us, we will review your situation, explain your options clearly, and help you decide on next steps with confidence.

If you are ready to take action, call us at 302.655.2599 or submit the online contact form below to get started.

Contact Us Online

Team Leaders

Keith E. Donovan
Managing Partner
Michael G. Owen
Partner

What To Do After a Fire Injury

Recovering from a major fire is overwhelming. In the hours, days, and weeks afterward, it is important to prioritize both your health and your rights. If you have been injured in a fire, remember the following basic steps:

  • Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as smoke inhalation and internal damage are not always obvious.
  • Preserve any documentation you receive from doctors, hospitals, or emergency responders.
  • If possible, take photos of your injuries and the scene of the fire, and keep records of expenses related to your recovery and displacement.
  • Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters before speaking with an attorney.

These early steps not only protect your well-being but also strengthen your potential legal claim.

Major Fire Accidents FAQs

What are the most common causes of major fires?

Major fires can start for many reasons, including faulty electrical wiring, malfunctioning heating systems, improperly stored flammable materials, cooking accidents, and failures in fire alarms or sprinkler systems. When property owners or managers cut corners on safety, the risk of a large-scale fire increases dramatically.

What types of injuries are most common in fire accidents?

Burn injuries are the most obvious, ranging from painful first-degree burns to devastating third-degree burns that require skin grafts and surgeries. Smoke inhalation can cause permanent lung damage, and survivors often suffer from scarring, nerve damage, or post-traumatic stress. Sadly, many fires also lead to wrongful death claims.

Who can be held liable after a major fire?

Liability depends on the circumstances, but responsible parties may include property owners, landlords, building managers, contractors, product manufacturers, or maintenance companies. If the fire occurred at work, both third-party claims and workers’ compensation may come into play. Our attorneys will investigate the specific circumstances of your accident to determine who is responsible and maximize your financial recovery.

How do you prove negligence in a fire accident case?

Our team investigates fire origin and cause, reviews building codes and inspection records, interviews witnesses, and consults with fire experts. We look for evidence of safety violations, defective equipment, or negligent behavior that contributed to the fire’s outbreak or spread.

What compensation can fire victims pursue?

Compensation may cover medical bills, surgeries, skin grafts, rehabilitation, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and permanent disfigurement. Families who lose loved ones in fires may also pursue wrongful death damages.

How long do I have to file a fire injury lawsuit?

State law imposes strict deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, for filing personal injury and wrongful death claims. Because fire cases require in-depth investigation, it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Do I need a lawyer after a fire accident?

Yes. Fire injury cases are complex and often involve multiple defendants and insurance companies. The attorneys at Morris James will ensure that your case is properly investigated, your rights are protected, and pursue full and fair compensation on your behalf.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a major fire, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our attorneys will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable. Call 302.655.2599 or submit our online form today for a free consultation.

Connect with the Catastrophic Accidents & Serious Injuries Group at Morris James

Thank you for your interest in Morris James. Please provide us with the following information so that we can connect you with the appropriate attorney.

"*" indicates required fields

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Ashley C. Curran

Ashley C. Curran

Associate
Keith E. Donovan

Keith E. Donovan

Managing Partner
Matthew R. Fogg

Matthew R. Fogg

Partner
Kevin G. Healy

Kevin G. Healy

Partner
Michael G. Owen

Michael G. Owen

Partner
Susan D. Ament

Susan D. Ament

Retired Partner
Clayton E. Bunting

Clayton E. Bunting

Of Counsel