Anyone who has ever lived through a fire will tell you what a terrifying and traumatizing experience it is. Fire is always destructive and can cause massive damage in its wake. It can also cause tragic loss of life and devastating injuries. While fires are often unpredictable, sometimes they are the result of negligence on the part of building and property owners.  

Living through the trauma of a fire is a life-altering event. Here at Goodwin Johnston LLC, we can only imagine what you’re going through. While we cannot undo what has happened to you, we can help you seek justice and pursue compensation for your suffering. Our experienced fire attorneys in Kansas City, Missouri, genuinely care about helping you regain some peace of mind and move forward.  

Fire-Related Injuries and Lifelong Consequences

Fires not only cause devastating injuries and loss of life but also lead to lifelong consequences that can affect every aspect of your livelihood. The injuries sustained in a fire can vary greatly in severity. Some common fire-related injuries include: 

• Burn injuries, which can range from first-degree to third-degree burns

• Smoke inhalation, which can lead to respiratory issues and potential long-term lung damage

• Heat exposure, which can cause serious skin damage and possible internal injuries

• Trauma from explosions, which can result in broken bones, concussions, and other physical injuries

• Chemical burns from exposure to hazardous materials during the fire

• Eye injuries due to smoke and debris

• Nerve damage from severe burns or trauma

Beyond the immediate injuries, fires can lead to several lifelong consequences, such as: 

• Chronic pain and discomfort 

• Permanent scarring and disfigurement 

• Diminished self-esteem 

• Diminished quality of life  

• Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression, etc.) 

• Loss of mobility 

• Financial strain due to medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and loss of income 

Most fire victims did nothing to deserve their injuries, and they shouldn't have to pay out of pocket if the fire accident was the result of someone else’s negligence or misconduct. Our Kansas City fires attorneys at Goodwin Johnston LLC can assist you in pursuing the full compensation you need to move forward with your life.

Possible Causes of Fires in Buildings

Every fire accident is unique and should be investigated individually. However, some common causes of fires in buildings include:  

• Faulty electrical wiring 

• Negligent maintenance 

• Defective appliances 

• Improper storage of flammable materials 

• Arson 

• Heating system malfunctions 

• Smoking-related incidents 

Understanding the causes of fires in buildings is key to determining liability. That is why you may need an experienced personal injury attorney to help you launch an independent and thorough investigation to identify the liable parties.

Our office is located in Kansas City, but we serve clients throughout Missouri, including Columbia, Springfield, St. Joseph, and St. Louis, and also Kansas, including the communities of Lawrence, Wichita, Topeka, and Manhattan. Call us today to enlist strong legal support. 

When Is a Building or Property Owner Liable for Fire? 

Building or property owners may be held liable for fires if they fail to maintain a safe environment or warn their visitors of dangers. Some examples of liability include: 

• Failure to comply with fire safety codes and regulations 

• Negligence in maintaining electrical and heating systems 

• Inadequate emergency exits and fire escapes 

• Failure to install or maintain smoke detectors and fire extinguishers 

• Allowing hazardous conditions that increase the risk of fire 

Even if a building or property owner did nothing to cause fire, they could still be liable for the resulting injuries if they had blocked or improperly labeled emergency exits or malfunctioning alarm systems. In the event there is a fire, there may still be enough time to save lives and minimize the risk of injuries if the building/property owner ensures that adequate safety measures are in place.  

How Can a Fire Attorney Help?

At Goodwin Johnston LLC, our Missouri fire attorneys strive to provide comprehensive legal support to help survivors and the families of those killed in fires through this difficult time. We can assist by: 

• Determining and proving liability: We will conduct thorough investigations to help determine the cause of the fire and establish liability. 

• Calculating the value of your claim: We will help you assess your medical bills, lost wages, and other losses and damages. 

• Identifying the avenues of compensation available to you: We'll help you explore all the possible sources of compensation, including insurance claims, third-party liability, and litigation.  

• Handling the insurance claims process and negotiations with insurers on your behalf: We'll strive to help you receive the full compensation to which you are entitled. 

• Preparing your case for trial and representing you in court: If necessary, we're prepared to take your case to trial and leverage our litigation experience to secure the best possible outcome. 

At Goodwin Johnston LLC, we have handled personal injury and premises liability cases for years, which makes us well-equipped to help you if you've suffered injuries or lost a loved one in a fire accident on someone else’s property.  

Why Choose Goodwin Johnston LLC?

At Goodwin Johnston LLC, we take pride in our ability to deliver the results our clients need. We have earned a reputation for fighting vigorously for our clients' rights and are prepared to do the same for you. But what is it that makes our law firm special?  

• One-on-one attention: Our personalized service is tailored to your unique needs. 

• Client-centered approach: Your well-being and comfort are our top priorities. 

• Focus on detail: We strive to handle every aspect of your case thoroughly and meticulously.

• Not scared of trials: We have the experience and confidence to take your case to court if needed. 

• Over $20 million recovered for clients: We have a proven track record of successful settlements and verdicts.  

• Compassion: We genuinely care about our clients and their recovery. 

• Integrity: We strive to provide honest and transparent communication throughout your case. 

• Attorneys with personality: We bring a human touch to legal representation, making the process less intimidating and stressful. 

Fire Attorneys in Kansas City, Missouri

Building fires can take a devastating toll, including immeasurable pain to the survivors, potential lifetime disability, and tragic loss of life. With years of experience representing victims of fires and those who lost their loved ones in fire-related incidents, our firm knows that no one deserves to suffer.

At Goodwin Johnston LLC, our Kansas City fire lawyers strive to handle your case with the utmost care, compassion, and attention it deserves. We understand that it takes courage to pick up your phone and tell what you’ve lived through. But know this—we are here for you when you’re ready. Schedule a consultation at a convenient time and tell us your story.