The wintertime is a welcome contrast to the summer temperatures that fan the flames of forest fires; however, cooler weather also has its fair share of fires. More structure fires occur in the winter months than during the summertime. Why? When temperatures start dropping into the 30s, most people stay in to cook a warm meal, turn on their heaters, and light their fireplaces for the first time in months.
Because cooler weather begins the start of the indoor heating season, the number of indoor fires increases from hazards such as:
- Space heaters – When trying to warm up, people often use space heaters that can overload outlets. Additionally, when space heaters are placed too close to bedding or other objects, a fire can occur.
- Fireplaces – Before lighting a fireplace for the first time this year, it is wise to have a chimney sweep or chimney inspection for buildup of combustible deposits. Fireplaces are the second-largest share of residential fires behind cooking.
- Smoking – If someone falls asleep while smoking, a cigar or cigarette may start a house fire.
- Cooking – About 42 percent of home fires are caused by cooking or forgetting to turn off the stove when a person leaves the room.
Faulty heating and electrical equipment also cause many residential fires, which may not be the fault of a homeowner. If equipment is deemed defective and faulty, the manufacturer of the electrical equipment may be liable for fire damages and losses. Additionally, if faulty electrical wiring causes the fire, the builder, contractor, or other party responsible may be held liable.
If you suffered property damage from a residential fire that was not your fault, you may need a skilled insurance litigation attorney on your side to make sure you get the compensation from the insurance company that you deserve. Unfortunately, insurance companies often misinterpret provisions in policies or tell you that you have insufficient coverage, attempting to deny your residential insurance claim. Additionally, one of their “experts” may rule that the fire was a result of arson or that it was suspicious in nature.
It’s unfair that you lost all of your possessions and your home in a fire, and now the insurance company is playing hardball with you. Do not give up or give in, even though you will have to fight an uphill battle. Instead, come talk with an experienced insurance claim litigation attorney for help fighting back. At the Voss Law Firm, we can challenge an insurance company’s denial and appeal it to help you get the settlement that you deserve.
We encourage you to call us to find out about your rights. We will provide you with a free consultation and a free copy of attorney Bill Voss’ book: Disputes With Your Insurance Company – What All Consumers Need to Know. Please call today at 888-614-7730 to find out what coverage you are entitled to under your policy.
