The Smokehouse Creek Fire is the largest wildfire in Texas history. Likely sparked by the collapse of a dilapidated power pole, it rapidly spread across the Texas Panhandle—claiming lives and destroying thousands of acres of property.
The wildfire has not only wrought environmental devastation but also left an indelible mark on communities and families in North Texas. If you or a loved one has suffered physical injuries, property damage, and other losses due to this devastating event, trust the experienced wildfire claim attorneys at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC to help you seek justice.
Meet Founding Partner Mark Shapiro
For more than two decades, Mark Shapiro has worked diligently to represent people that have been injured by the negligence of other individuals, groups, and corporations. Prior to opening his own law firm, he was a partner in the New York office of Loeb & Loeb. Prior to working in that office, he was Of Counsel at Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner. As an experienced mass tort lawyer, his firm has represented over 60,000 clients since it first opened.
At Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC we understand that a significant blaze like the Smokehouse Creek Fire is capable of causing considerable damage. If you’ve been harmed or suffered damages in the blaze, we’d like to speak with you about your case during a free initial consultation.
Contact us today:
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Phone: (212) 485-9899
Toll-Free: (800) 220-0984
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“After contacting several law firms regarding a potential case I believe I have against a company, the Shapiro Law Firm stood out for their attention and knowledge about my issue.”
– Diana F.
“I highly recommend this firm. Very professional and accommodating. Easy to talk to. They make you feel at ease. If I had to rate them from one to ten, they are an 11.”
– Michael S.
“I only have positive feelings about the Shapiro Legal Group. They reached out to me immediately after I sent my inquiry in to the firm. What’s more? Jerome, the person who I spoke to was an excellent communicator!”
– Tina M.
“I was contacted quickly with very noninvasive questions which made me more comfortable answering questions. Very pleased with how I was treated. The representative from Shapiro Legal Group had good knowledge about my situation and handled every concern or questions I had. Definitely recommend them.”
– Debra N.
What Caused the Smokehouse Creek Fire?
On February 26th, 2024, a series of wildfires broke out in the Texas Panhandle—the largest of which would be named the Smokehouse Creek Fire. Although the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation, it was likely caused by faulty utility infrastructure. Specifically, a recent lawsuit alleges that a dilapidated power pole collapsed and started the fire.
Xcel Energy, the utility company responsible for delivering electric and natural gas to residents of the affected area, has acknowledged that its infrastructure was involved in the ignition of the fire. However, it denies that its negligence was responsible for the blaze.
Measuring the Impact of the Smokehouse Creek Fire
The Smokehouse Creek Fire has become the second-largest fire in US history and the largest in Texas. Covering nearly 1.1 million acres, this fire has devastated large portions of the Panhandle, merging with another wildfire to extend its reach. The blaze has left behind a trail of destruction, including melted lampposts, split power line posts, and homes reduced to ashes.
When Is the Right Time to Hire a Fire Damage Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been affected by the Smokehouse Creek Fire, reach out to an attorney without delay. You deserve a fair settlement for the damages that you have suffered. However, many insurance companies attempt to dismiss claims to conserve funds—especially in the wake of a large-scale natural disaster.
With an attorney by your side, you can build the strongest possible case for your right to recovery. A lawyer will navigate the complex claims process and negotiate with insurers on your behalf, ensuring that your voice is heard and your losses are accurately represented. They will also counteract any attempts by insurance companies to underpay or unfairly deny your claim, maximizing your chances of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Damages Caused by the Smokehouse Creek Fire
The Smokehouse Creek Fire has resulted in an array of damages, affecting everything from personal health to the environment. Now, victims of this devastating disaster are filing insurance claims or lawsuits to help aid in their recovery. Some of the most common damages include:
- Smoke Damage: The pervasive nature of smoke has left many homes and businesses with significant damage, including corrosion, structural weakness, discoloration, and unpleasant odors.
- Home and Property Damage: Countless properties have suffered extensive damage, with many structures partially or completely destroyed. The cost of repairs and replacements adds another layer of hardship for those who are already grappling with the fire’s aftermath.
- Crop and Agricultural Equipment Damage: The agricultural sector has seen widespread damage to crops, livestock, equipment, and infrastructure, putting the livelihoods of many farmers and ranchers at risk.
- Harm to Physical Health: The physical injuries from burns and smoke inhalation, along with the long-term health impacts, have affected countless individuals who live or work in the wildfire’s vicinity. These issues will require significant medical treatment.
Legal Options for Smokehouse Creek Fire Victims
For those impacted by the Smokehouse Creek Fire, navigating the legal landscape can be overwhelming. However, those responsible for this devastating event deserve to be held accountable. Victims have several avenues for seeking justice and compensation, from insurance claims to lawsuits.
Filing a Home Insurance Claim
Your home insurance policy will likely include coverage for fire damage, especially damage caused by flames, smoke, and corrosive substances. If your residence was damaged in the blaze, initiating this type of claim is a critical step toward recovery. An attorney can defend your rights during this process, negotiating with insurers and advocating for the highest possible settlement on your behalf.
Applying for Federal Disaster Assistance
In the wake of the Smokehouse Creek Fire, eligible residents can seek aid through Federal Disaster Assistance. This assistance, facilitated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), offers a 75% reimbursement for fire-related damages. Texas Governor Greg Abbott encourages all affected to complete the iSTAT Damage Survey to help the government determine the extent of these losses and aid in the appropriate distribution of compensation.
Filing an Agricultural Insurance Claim
For the agricultural community in North Texas, the Smokehouse Creek Fire has inflicted significant losses. Farm owners facing damage to property, crops, equipment, or livestock can file an agricultural insurance claim to help recover from the wildfire’s devastation. An attorney can also aid in this process, ensuring that all documents are complete and that you have submitted robust evidence to the insurance company.
Filing a Bad Faith Insurance Lawsuit
Some insurance companies engage in bad faith practices to limit their financial obligations, especially when facing a wave of claims after a natural disaster. If you suspect that your insurer is acting in bad faith, you can file a lawsuit against the company. A fire damage attorney can initiate this claim on your behalf, holding the company accountable and compelling it to uphold its responsibilities under the law.
Areas Impacted by the Smokehouse Creek Fire
The Smokehouse Creek Fire has left a trail of devastation across several areas. Some of the most affected regions include:
- Borger, Texas
- Canadian, Texas
- Fritch, Texas
- Hemphill County
- Hutchinson County
- Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
- Stinnett, Texas
If you live or work in any of the towns or counties listed above, you deserve justice. Taking legal action can help secure the compensation necessary for rebuilding and recovery so that you are not left to bear the burden alone.
Contact Our Smokehouse Creek Fire Attorney Today for Assistance
In the face of widespread devastation, knowing your legal rights and options is critical. Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC is currently representing those affected by the Smokehouse Creek Fire. Leveraging our decades of experience advocating for the rights of the injured, our attorney can help you navigate the claims process and recover the compensation that you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been impacted by the Smokehouse Creek Fire, don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact us today at (800) 220-0984 and learn how our firm can fight for you.