After an apartment fire caused by someone else’s negligence, engaging with a seasoned personal injury lawyer is crucial. A Chicago apartment fire lawyer from The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers can help you receive the maximum compensation that you deserve for your losses.
What Causes Apartment Fires in Chicago?
Apartment fires in Chicago can be caused by:
- Faulty wiring or equipment can cause an electrical fire
- Improperly maintained or malfunctioning appliances
- Negligence on the part of tenants, such as leaving candles unattended
- Defective fire safety systems such as sprinkler systems
- Poorly constructed buildings that do not meet fire safety standards
The Consequences of Apartment Fires
Regardless of the cause, apartment fires can have devastating consequences:
- Physical injuries including serious burns or smoke inhalation requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Emotional trauma for victims and witnesses.
- Major property damage, destroying personal belongings and displacing residents.
- Financial burden with medical bills, loss of income due to injuries or displacement, and potential legal fees.
What Should I Do After an Apartment Fire?
Steps to take after an apartment fire include:
- Immediately vacate the premises.
- Dial 911 to report the fire.
- Seek medical attention.
- Notify your landlord, super, or building management company.
- Document everything with pictures and videos.
- Contact your insurance company.
- Consult our personal injury attorneys to pursue compensation.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Burn Injuries in an Apartment Fire?
Different from a fire in a private residence, liability in apartment house fires may extend to:
- Landlords
- Other tenants
- The manufacturer of defective products
What Fire Safety Measures Must Chicago Landlords Provide?
Chicago landlords and property owners are responsible for maintaining the habitability and the fire safety equipment of their rental properties. This includes ensuring that the property complies with applicable building and fire safety codes. Under Chicago’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), landlords with properties with more than seven units must provide:
- Fire extinguishers on each floor if the apartment building is three stories or more.
- Permanently posted fire evacuation notices in buildings that are three stories or more (425 ILCS 5/).
- Smoke detectors (425 ILCS 60/3) in the sleeping rooms of each unit and at the top of each stairwell.
- Working fire escapes for large buildings.
- Basements, cellars, and attics must be free of fire hazards.
- Adequate lighting in hallways and stairwells, including emergency lighting.
- Electrical wiring must be maintained in good condition by a licensed electrician.
Most Common Fire-Related Injuries in Chicago Apartment Fires
Many serious burn injuries can require extensive medical treatment and long-term care including:
- Burns caused by heat.
- Thermal Injury from direct contact with fire.
- Smoke Inhalation.
- Cuts from breaking glass.
- Broken Bones from escape efforts.
- Sprains/Strains from panic-induced rushing.
- Heatstroke from overheating.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
What Compensation Might I Recover from an Apartment Fire?
Victims of fire injuries or severe burns in an apartment fire may be eligible to recover compensation:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Temporary housing
How Much Is My Case Worth?
A personal injury lawyer evaluates the value of a Chicago apartment fire case by considering the extent of damage and injuries suffered, financial compensation, the extent of negligence, the strength of evidence, the potential for collecting damages from the at-fault party, and the impact of the incident on the victim’s life.
Each case is unique and it is best to consult with a personal injury attorney to get an accurate estimate of the injury claim potential compensation.
How Can The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers Help Fire Injury Victims?
The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers will analyze your case, gather evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and represent you in court if necessary.
Call Us to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
In your free consultation, you will meet with one of our experienced attorneys who will listen to your burn injury case, evaluate your evidence, explain your legal rights and options, and answer your questions.
(312) 223-1700