Wildfire Settlements

The Devastating Impact of Wildfires

Wildfires destroy homes, disrupt communities, and can lead to loss of life. In 2020 alone, more than 58,000 wildfires scorched over 10 million acres in the U.S., according to the National Interagency Fire Center. Beyond the physical damage, survivors often face long-term emotional trauma, financial instability, and loss of community.

Economic Damage

Wildfires can cost billions. In California alone, insured losses in 2020 exceeded $12 billion. Affected areas often see small businesses shut down, jobs disappear, and tourism decline. Government firefighting costs also divert funding from critical infrastructure and public services.

Environmental Consequences

Wildfires leave behind scorched landscapes, trigger mudslides and floods, destroy wildlife habitats, and damage water systems. They also release carbon and air pollutants, worsening climate change and air quality.

Past Wildfire Settlement Amounts

• $13.5 Billion – PG&E Wildfire Settlements: Following a series of devastating wildfires in Northern California, PG&E filed for bankruptcy and ultimately agreed to a $13.5 billion settlement. The payout was intended to compensate victims of several major incidents, including the 2015 Butte Fire, the 2016 Ghost Ship warehouse fire in Oakland, the 2017 Tubbs Fire, and the deadly 2018 Camp Fire.
• $4 Billion – Maui Wildfire Relief Fund: In response to the catastrophic 2023 wildfires on Maui, Hawaiian Electric, along with the state of Hawaii, Maui County, and Kamehameha Schools, committed a combined $4 billion to help families and businesses recover from the losses and destruction caused by the blaze.
• $2.5 Million – Dixie Fire Tribal Support: After the 2021 Dixie Fire scorched parts of Northern California, PG&E allocated $2.5 million to assist tribal communities affected by the disaster, offering targeted support as part of the utility’s broader fire-related reparations.
• Over $1 Billion – PacifiCorp Oregon Settlements: In Oregon, PacifiCorp has paid out more than $1 billion to resolve over 1,600 claims tied to the Labor Day fires of 2020. That includes a significant $178 million settlement with individuals impacted by the Beachie Creek and Echo Mountain Complex fires.

How Wildfire Settlements Work

For individuals and families impacted by wildfires, navigating the settlement process can be overwhelming. Key components include:

• Insurance claims
• Legal action against the responsible parties
• Government disaster assistance
• Emotional and psychological recovery resources

Insurance Claims After a Wildfire

Start by reviewing your homeowners or renters’ insurance policy. Key areas to examine include:

• Coverage limits and exclusions
• Loss of use provisions for temporary housing
• Personal property inventories and replacement cost coverage

Tips for successful claims:

• Take photos and videos of all damages
• Keep receipts for temporary lodging, meals, and repairs
• Work with a public adjuster if needed

Legal Rights and Lawsuits

In some cases, survivors may be entitled to compensation beyond insurance through:

• Lawsuits against negligent utility companies
• Claims against government agencies or landowners
• Class action lawsuits for widespread community damage

Consulting with a wildfire attorney ensures your legal rights are protected. Lawyers can also help negotiate fair insurance settlements and advise on deadlines and statutes of limitations.

Government Assistance Programs

FEMA Support

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers:

• Individual Assistance (IA) for temporary housing and repairs
• Public Assistance (PA) for local government recovery
• Disaster Case Management services for personalized help

State and Local Aid

Many states offer financial aid, mental health services, and rebuilding grants. Nonprofits also play a key role in disaster recovery by providing:

• Temporary shelter
• Volunteer labor
• Legal clinics
• Resource centers

Emotional and Psychological Support

Wildfire trauma often leads to anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Support is available through:

Community Support Networks

Local groups offer peer-led support and resources for coping, grief, and recovery.

Professional Mental Health Services

Licensed therapists can help process trauma and build resilience. Many insurance plans cover counseling, and some nonprofits offer it free of charge to disaster victims.

The Role of Advocacy Groups

• Raising awareness – Sharing survivor stories and data to inspire policy change
• Policy advocacy – Pushing for stronger fire safety laws and better recovery systems

Preparing for Future Wildfires

Defensible Space

• Clear brush and debris
• Use fire-resistant materials in construction
• Follow local defensible space guidelines

Community Wildfire Plans

• Develop evacuation routes and emergency communication plans
• Run practice drills and educate residents on wildfire safety

Get Help Pursuing Wildfire Compensation

Wildfire settlements are a complex but critical part of disaster recovery. By understanding your rights, filing proper insurance claims, accessing available aid, and seeking legal guidance when needed, you can recover more fully and fairly.

Emotional support, community resilience, and forward-looking planning also play vital roles. As wildfires remain a growing threat, the need for informed, proactive recovery strategies is more important than ever.

Get a free case review now. Our team can help you understand your legal rights and options after a wildfire.