When thinking about fires, there is a tendency to focus on domestic residences. While many fires occur in these settings, they can also happen in vehicles. In fact, approximately 1 in 8 reported fires is a vehicle fire.
What are the most common causes of car fires? Can you claim legal compensation if you are injured in one?
Vehicular collisions
The impact of a vehicular collision can result in severe injuries itself. However, there is also an extended risk of the car bursting into flames. This becomes especially dangerous if the doors have been jammed shut because of the crash. There are many components of a vehicle that have the potential to ignite. Electrical components can overheat during a crash, and of course, the majority of cars are powered by flammable substances like petroleum.
Malfunctions
If your car is brand new, then you don’t expect it to have any faults. Unfortunately, things can go wrong before the car has even reached 100 miles. Over the last 10 years, vehicle manufacturers have recalled over 10 million cars because they later discovered fire hazards. If your car isn’t recalled on time, then you could be severely injured.
Maintenance errors
You take your car for routine inspections all the time. You’ve done your research and taken the vehicle to the garage that seems to have the best reputation around. Unfortunately, your car burst into flames on the road and it turns out it was because of improper maintenance procedures. If a mechanic has been negligent in fixing your vehicle, then they could be held liable for your injuries.
Burn injuries from car fires can be severely debilitating, and victims may need an extended period to recover. Seeking legal guidance will give you a better idea of whether or not you are eligible for compensation.