PG&E Fire Lawsuit | 2025 Latest Updates

Latest PG&E Fire Lawsuit Updates

January 26, 2024 – PG&E has reached a significant settlement over the Dixie Fire, marking a major step in the ongoing lawsuits related to California’s wildfire incidents.

January 2024 – PG&E admitted in federal court that its equipment caused at least 10 wildfires in Northern and Central California, citing tree damage, vehicle collisions, and animal interference as primary causes.

April 12, 2024 – Oregon forest owners have filed a lawsuit against PG&E for $228 million, accusing the company of negligence in causing the devastating Dixie Fire.

July 13, 2019 – Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill establishing a $21 billion wildfire fund to help PG&E and other utilities cover liabilities from future wildfires caused by their equipment [1].

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Cal Fire, CPUC, and Federal Agency Reports and Statistics

According to Cal Fire, CPUC, and federal agency reports:

• PG&E equipment has been linked to over 30 major wildfires since 2015
• The 2018 CampFire alone killed 85 people and caused over $16.5 billion in damages
• The 2017 North Bay Fires led to 44 deaths and destroyed 8,900 structures
• Insured losses from the 2017 fires reached $9 billion
• The Dixie Fire (2021) burned nearly 1 million acres across multiple counties
• Over 70,000 claims have been filed against PG&E for wildfire damages

PG&E Fire Injuries & Side Effects

Victims of PG&E fires have suffered a wide range of injuries and traumatic effects:

• Physical Injuries: Burns, smoke inhalation, respiratory damage, and trauma from evacuation
• Property Damage: Complete home destruction, partial structural damage, land damage, and loss of personal possessions
• Economic Losses: Business interruption, lost income, relocation costs, and devaluation of property
• Psychological Trauma: PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress from displacement and loss

Do You Qualify for a PG&E Fire Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a PG&E fire lawsuit if:

• You were located in or owned property in an area affected by a PG&E-related wildfire
• You experienced property damage, business losses, personal injury, wrongful death, or emotional distress
• You were uninsured or underinsured, leaving you with out-of-pocket costs
• Your losses occurred either during the fire or afterward (such as from insurance delays)

If you experienced any of these circumstances, you may be eligible for compensation beyond what insurance may have provided.

Evidence Required for a PG&E Fire Lawsuit

To strengthen your claim, you should gather:

• Property valuation reports and pre-fire documentation
• Photos and videos showing damage
• Insurance claims and correspondence
• Medical records for any injuries or psychological trauma
• Business financial records if applicable
• Official fire investigation reports
• Evacuation orders and emergency declarations

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of PG&E fires may be entitled to compensation for:

• Property damage and rebuilding costs
• Medical expenses for physical injuries
• Lost wages and business income
• Emotional distress and psychological trauma
• Evacuation and temporary housing expenses
• Loss of personal items and heirlooms
• Punitive damages against PG&E

PG&E Recall Information

While PG&E has not issued traditional product recalls, they have implemented numerous public safety power shutoffs (PSPS) since 2019, affecting millions of customers across California to prevent wildfires caused by their equipment:

• In 2019, PG&E began implementing phased power shutoffs, with the first major event on October 9 affecting 738,000 customers in Central and Northern California
• PG&E Chief Executive Bill Johnson stated on October 18, 2019, that power outages to prevent fires could continue for up to a decade, though he later suggested in December 2019 that significant reductions might occur within five years
• Multiple shutoff events in 2019, including major outages on October 9, October 26, and November 20, impacted customers across multiple counties in Northern and Central California

Statute of Limitations for PG&E Fire Lawsuits

The statute of limitations for filing PG&E fire lawsuits varies depending on the specific fire and your circumstances:

• For the 2017 North Bay Fires: Filing deadlines have closed for most claims
• For the 2018 CampFire: Deadlines have expired, but compensation may still be available through the Fire Victim Trust
• For the 2019 Kincade Fire: Some claims are still open; consult an attorney
• For the 2020 Zogg Fire: Filing deadline still open for new claims
• For the 2021 Dixie Fire: Open filing period; eligible claimants should file soon

FAQs

1. What fires has PG&E been held responsible for?

PG&E has been linked to numerous California wildfires, including the CampFire, North Bay Fires (Atlas, Nuns, Tubbs), Kincade Fire, Zogg Fire, and Dixie Fire, among others. The company has admitted liability for multiple incidents.

2. How much compensation can I receive from a PG&E fire lawsuit?

Compensation varies based on your specific losses. Total property loss cases typically range from $100,000 to over $2 million, partial damage from $10,000 to $500,000, business interruption from $50,000 to over $1 million, and wrongful death claims from $500,000 to $5 million.

3. Is this a class action lawsuit?

No. Although Schmidt & Clark, LLP is a nationally recognized class action firm, we handle PG&E fire cases as individual lawsuits to maximize compensation for each client based on their specific circumstances and losses.

4. How are PG&E fire settlements being paid?

PG&E established a $13.5 billion trust fund to compensate victims as part of its bankruptcy reorganization. Payments are being distributed through the Fire Victim Trust, with priority given to those with immediate needs and total losses.

5. Can I still file a claim if I had insurance?

Yes. Many victims qualify for additional compensation beyond what insurance covers, especially for underinsured properties or for damages not covered by insurance policies.

6. How long does it take to receive compensation?

The timeline varies. Some victims have already received initial payments, while others are still waiting. Complex cases with extensive damages may take longer to process and settle.

7. Can businesses file PG&E fire lawsuits?

Yes, businesses that suffered property damage, lost income, or other financial impacts due to PG&E-related wildfires can file lawsuits to seek compensation.

8. Can I sue for emotional distress caused by a PG&E wildfire?

Yes, you can seek compensation for emotional distress and psychological trauma in addition to physical and property damages.

9. What if I’ve already received some insurance money?

You can still pursue a claim against PG&E, but your insurance payments may be factored into your final settlement amount.

10. What steps has PG&E taken to prevent future wildfires?

PG&E has implemented enhanced vegetation management, equipment upgrades, increased inspections, and public safety power shut offs to reduce wildfire risk.

See all the personal injury and accidents litigations we’ve taken on.

Take Action Now: Time-Sensitive Legal Claims

Time is limited to pursue legal action against PG&E for wildfire damages. California law typically allows only 2-3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, and many filing deadlines have already expired.

Our services include:

• Free, confidential consultations
• No upfront costs or fees
• Payment only if we win your case
• Personalized attention to your specific circumstances

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek the compensation you deserve for your losses.

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Reference:

[1] https://www.reuters.com/article/us-california-wildfire-legislation/california-governor-signs-bill-for-21-billion-wildfire-fund-idUSKCN1U72LI/