Cold weather causes fires

For the last few weeks most of our Nation has been stuck in the so called "ice box" with the temperatures in most of the States below normal. Paradoxically, the cold weather conditions increase the number of fires, because people often seek additional means to heat their homes with portable and electric heaters when the temperature drops significantly. In New York City and its boroughs many of old apartment buildings have electric installations that pre-date the Great Depression. Also landlords frequently do not provide proper fire protection and prevention that might violate applicable Building Codes and local laws, rules and regulations. To add to this problem, there are many illegal apartments and divisions created to increase the number of collected monthly rents that jeopardize the safety of the tenants and residents. There is also a problem with people who unfortunately lose their means to pay their utility bills and rent. They are often forced to heat their homes by some temporary means or to squat in abandoned or unoccupied buildings and structures where a small fire is the only way to avoid freezing at night.

As statistics clearly show, the number of reported fires increases in cold weather that keeps its grip for weeks after weeks. It is unfortunate that with the increased number of fires, the number of seriously injured victims also increases. In my practice as New York Personal Injury Attorney, I often meet such victims who suffer a multitude of serious injuries from burns and smoke inhalation to traumatic brain injuries and loss of limbs. Many of these injuries are caused by violations of the laws, rules and regulations by their landlords and building managers. There are also circumstances where the City of New York might be responsible.

It is crucial to be careful and extremely cautious under these circumstances and avoid use of unsafe means to heat your home. However, some accidents cannot be prevented and if you are a victim and you have suffered serious personal injuries, you should always consult with an experienced personal injury attorney, because you might be entitled to compensation for your losses, your pain and your suffering.