Bridge Fire Lawyer

The Bridge Fire began as a brush fire at around 2:30 p.m. on September 8, 2024, near Glendora, California. The wildfire quickly spread to roughly 50,000 acres in the following days and caused significant damage. Officials say dozens of homes and structures have been destroyed in the Mount Baldy, Wrightwood and surrounding areas, with thousands of other structures threatened. No significant injuries or deaths have been reported.

As victims grapple with the aftermath of one of the largest wildfires in the state this year, the California wildfire attorneys at Wisner Baum are following the investigation closely. If negligence by a company, utility, or a government agency caused or contributed to this fire, victims may be able to pursue a legal claim. Retaining an experienced wildfire attorney can make all the difference in securing full and fair compensation for your losses.

If you or someone in your family suffered losses in the Bridge Fire, fill out our contact form or give us a call at (855) 626-8067 to learn more about your legal rights.

Bridge Fire Updates

September 23, 2024: The Bridge Fire, California's largest active wildfire, has seen significant containment progress, with most evacuation orders now lifted in Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. The fire, which began on September 8 in the San Gabriel Canyon area, has burned 54,877 acres and is now 71% contained. Cal Fire reports that 81 structures have been destroyed and 17 damaged, with five injuries reported. The only remaining mandatory evacuation order is for the sparsely populated Mile High area. While some evacuation warnings persist, firefighters continue to make progress battling the blaze, which has primarily affected the Angeles National Forest and nearby communities.

We still do not know what caused the Bridge Fire. If negligence was a factor in causing or contributing to the wildfire, those who suffered losses may have legal standing to pursue civil lawsuits to recover compensation. Claims for damages may include money to rebuild or repair homes and other property, reimbursement for lost business income, medical expenses, and more. 

September 19, 2024: The Bridge Fire continues to rage in Los Angeles County, consuming over 54,000 at 41% containment. Firefighters are making progress on the northwest and southeast flanks, utilizing both ground and air resources. Favorable weather conditions have allowed direct attacks along the fire's edge, helping to protect the Mile High and Paradise Springs communities. The blaze has destroyed 81 structures and left 19 others damaged, including residential, commercial, and other properties. Four injuries have been reported among fire personnel and civilians. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

BRIDGE FIRE EVACUATION ORDERS AND WARNINGS

The Bridge Fire prompted evacuation orders in the following areas (as of September 11, 2024):

• The whole community of Wrightwood.
• Pinion Hills from Wrightwood north to Highway 18 and Beekley Road west to LA County.
• Lone Pine Canyon from Wrightwood to Hwy 138/Lone Pine Canyon Road south to the forest.
• East Fork communities of Camp Williams Resort (café, mobile home park, campground) and River Community (near the resort). 
• Mt. Baldy Road, all residents north of the San Antonio Dam up to the Mt. Baldy Resort.

Evacuation warnings were issued for the following areas (as of September 11, 2024):

• San Antonio Heights and Upland from the foothills south to 23rd Street.
• Pinion Hills from Wrightwood north to Highway 138 and Lebec Road west to Los Angeles County.

The best way to stay informed about Bridge Fire evacuation updates is via CalFire’s incident report. 

BRIDGE FIRE EVACUATION CENTERS

Local officials have designed the following places as disaster relief shelters:

• Jessie Turner Health and Fitness Community Center | 15556 Summit Ave, Fontana, CA 92336. Call (909) 854-5100
• Pomona Fairplex | 601 W McKinley Avenue Pomona, CA 91768 (Enter Gate 3, corner of McKinley and White)
• San Bernardino County Fairgrounds | 14800 Seventh Street, Victorville, CA 92392

BRIDGE FIRE ANIMAL SHELTERS

• Antelope Valley Fairgrounds | 2551 W Avenue H, Lancaster, CA 93536. Call 562-706-8581 prior to arrival.
• Devore Animal Shelter | 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino, CA 92407. Call (909) 386-9820, or after hours: (800) 472-5609
• Lancaster Animal Care Center | 5210 W Ave I, Lancaster, CA 93536
• Palmdale Animal Care Center | 38550 Sierra Hwy, Palmdale, CA 93550

WHAT COMPENSATION IS AVAILABLE AFTER A WILDFIRE?

Victims of wildfires may be eligible for various forms of compensation, depending on the specific circumstances of their case. It's important to note that the availability and amount of compensation can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of each case, the extent of the damages, and the parties held responsible for the fire. An experienced wildfire attorney can help you identify all potential sources of compensation and work to maximize your recovery.

Here's an overview of the types of compensation that may be available:

DAMAGE TO PROPERTY

• Structural Damage: Compensation for damage to or destruction of homes, buildings, and other structures on your property.
• Personal Property Loss: Reimbursement for destroyed or damaged personal belongings, including furniture, clothing, vehicles, and other valuables.
• Landscaping and Land Damage: Compensation for damage to trees, plants, and soil on your property.

ECONOMIC LOSSES

• Lost Income: Compensation for wages or business income lost due to evacuation, injury, or property damage.
• Business Interruption: Reimbursement for lost profits and ongoing expenses if your business was forced to close or reduce operations.
• Temporary Housing Expenses: Coverage for expenses related to temporary housing if you were displaced from your home.
• Evacuation Expenses: Reimbursement for costs associated with mandatory evacuations, such as transportation, food, and lodging.

EMOTIONAL DISTRESS AND MENTAL HEALTH

• Psychological Trauma: Compensation for mental health treatment related to the trauma of forced evacuation and other experiences related to the wildfire.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the impact on your quality of life due to the fire's effects.

BRIDGE FIRE LAWYERS WITH PROVEN TRACK RECORD

If you suffered losses in the Bridge Fire and would like more information on your legal rights, please get in touch with us. The California Wildfire lawyers at Wisner Baum offer free and confidential case evaluations, and we represent fire clients on a contingency fee basis, which means if we are not successful in obtaining compensation on your behalf, you don’t owe us a dime. 

Wisner Baum has handled hundreds of wildfire claims for victims throughout California. Most recently, the firm secured justice and compensation for survivors of the Northbay Fires and Camp Fire in Paradise and the Woolsey Fire in Los Angeles. Our California wildfire litigation team has successfully handled corporate wrongdoing claims for homeowners, renters, high-net-worth individuals, and companies. We know what it takes to navigate the complexities of insurance claims and, if needed, take those responsible to court. 

Don't face the aftermath of the Bridge Fire alone. Our dedicated team of Bridge Fire attorneys are ready to fight for your rights and help you rebuild your life.

Call us at 855-626-8067 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation with a Bridge Fire lawyer today.