Wildfires are a serious threat to communities. They can cause serious damage to property and risk the health and safety of residents and the first responders who help them.
In places like Lubbock and Amarillo, it is crucial to understand the potential injuries they can cause and how a personal injury attorney can help residents and first responders.
Residents
Wildfires can produce thick smoke that harms the body and the environment. This smoke has tiny particles and toxic gases, which can cause harm to the body.
Smoke
Smoke can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. It can cause coughing, shortness of breath and chest pain. In serious cases, people can experience severe respiratory problems, such as asthma attacks or bronchitis.
Burns
In addition, wildfires can lead to injuries from burns, whether from direct contact with the flames or from touching hot cement and metals.
Solutions
Let’s say you or a loved one suffers injuries because of a wildfire. Seeking help from a personal injury attorney is one of the most essential steps after your doctor discharges you.
Doing this as soon as possible is essential to assessing the case, determining who is liable for your injuries and pursuing compensation.
Types of Compensation
Compensation can come in different forms. For example:
- Money to cover or reimburse medical expenses.
- Financial help for lost wages.
- Financial support for pain and suffering.
A personal injury attorney can explain what, if anything, you can go to court for, who is liable for the injuries and whether someone owes you compensation for those injuries.
First responders
First responders and workers who sustain injuries while combating wildfires can get workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical bills and provide financial support during recovery.
Potential benefits include:
- Payments for medical treatment
- disability payments, and
- vocational rehabilitation services.
However, the workers’ compensation system is complicated and requires help from someone who knows how to navigate it well.
By speaking with an attorney, workers can make sure that someone defends their rights and fights for all the benefits they should receive.
Wildfire-related injuries can have a significant impact on people’s physical, emotional and financial well-being.
Getting legal help can help you ensure you get the support and compensation you deserve, regardless of whether you are a resident who suffers from smoke inhalation or a first responder who sustains injuries on the job.