The Hawaiian Island of Maui’s beauty is unparalleled. Waterfalls, volcanoes, world-famous beaches, and lush forests decorate Maui, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists. Sadly, a horrific wildfire devastated Maui’s natural resources and the island’s residents. The “Lahaina Fire” killed nearly 100 people, with hundreds to thousands injured and over 2,500 homes and businesses destroyed. Individuals affected by the disaster are filing Maui fire lawsuits against Hawaiian Electric Co., blaming the utility company for the fire.
Our law firm is currently supporting victims of the Lahaina Fire. You may be eligible for a Maui fire lawsuit if you suffered injuries or property damage. Call (888) 525-3529 or fill out the free case evaluation on this page today to find out how The Lake Law Firm can fight for you.
On August 8, 2023, several wildfires broke out in Hawaii, with Maui hit particularly hard. Low humidity, severe drought, and strong winds worsened the brush fires. The fires rapidly overtook Maui, resulting in widespread destruction and reducing entire neighborhoods to ash. Residents rushed to evacuate, but the blaze rapidly consumed the land, leaving many trapped or stranded.
Thankfully, the fires were eventually contained. But not before burning over 11,000 acres, destroying over 2,000 structures, and taking the lives of dozens.
The Maui fire has proven to be the deadliest in U.S. history in the last century, with the death toll climbing to 99.
The recovery could take years and cost Hawaii billions, but the lives lost, and the enduring physical and emotional damage will leave a lasting mark for generations to come.
Numerous conditions contributed to the Maui fires. However, the reported negligence of utility companies has emerged as a strong possibility. Hurricane Dora, a few hundred miles away, brought intense winds to the islands, while extreme drought conditions and dry vegetation may have set the stage for the fires to grow so fast. But experts have pointed to active power lines that fell in high winds as the culprit in igniting the wildfires in the first place.
Maui fire lawsuits allege the companies knew about the upcoming weather conditions and high winds. Therefore, Hawaiian Electric Co. and others should have de-energized the powerlines to avoid live powerlines falling onto dry vegetation.
Also, wooden utility poles in Maui County are easily affected by severe wood decay, making them unstable and more prone to falling. Plaintiffs argue the utility companies’ powerlines were very deteriorated, contributing to the cause and spread of the fire.
Lawyers are assisting those impacted by the wildfires in filing Maui fire lawsuits against Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc. (HEI) and its subsidiaries. HEI is a public utility company that supplies power to Hawaii. It is the largest supplier of electricity in the state. Other utility companies under HEI accused of contributing to the wildfires include:
Maui fire lawsuits state these companies were negligent because they failed to properly install, maintain, repair, and inspect the utility poles, equipment, and warning system. Additionally, the companies did not trim or remove the nearby vegetation to protect public safety.
Sadly, at least 99 people have died due to the Hawaiian wildfires. Individuals whose loved ones died in the fires are filing wrongful death lawsuits.
Also, the particles released during the wildfires can damage the heart, lungs, and other vital organs. Harm to these organs can increase the risk of stroke, heart attacks, and respiratory problems.
Wildfires don’t just cause physical injuries; they can also inflict significant emotional damage on individuals and communities. The loss of homes, cherished belongings, loved ones, pets, and familiar landscapes in wildfires can lead to profound emotional distress for those affected. Attorneys are helping those experiencing mental anguish, stress, anxiety, and depression seek justice.
If you suffered physical or emotional injuries or lost a loved one in the wildfires, a Maui fire lawsuit can help you recover compensation.
At The Lake Law Firm, we recognize that the people of Hawaii have endured unfathomable losses. Although a lawsuit cannot undo the tragedy you have undergone, you can recover compensation to begin rebuilding your life. You may be able to recover compensation for any or all the following:
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. A lawyer will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529 or submit an inquiry on this page.
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