The CHP reported that a woman was killed on Friday night in a car accident fire in Rio Linda.
Witnesses said she was alone and speeding when she hit a bump in the road and then struck a tree. Moments after the collision, the car burst into flames and she was unable to exit the vehicle. The woman has not yet been identified by police. We offer our condolences to friends and family.
Causes of Car Fires
Car fires can be caused by numerous things. In some instances, it may appear that the driver is doing something dangerous or is violating traffic laws. But the reality could be they’re reacting to something wrong with the car. The following are a few different things that are behind dangerous car fires.
Flaws in the Design. While a negligent design may not be the exact cause, it can contribute to a car fire. Usually, a flawed design by itself won’t cause the fire. However, it’s possible that it creates conditions that are perfect for a fire or where a fire is inevitable.
Car Crashes. Many cars are designed to have crumple zones that protect dangerous areas of the car that could cause a fire. But it is possible that if the car is hit hard enough, it may cause a fluid leak or spillage that mixes with heat and smoke from the collision. This is especially true for rear-end collisions because of fuel tank placement.
Electrical System Failure. Every car has electrical wiring that runs through it. If a stray or frayed wire ends up sparking at the right time, it could result in a fire starting. Additionally, car batteries can cause a hydrogen gas build up in the engine bay. This coupled with the electrical current the battery gives the car, could produce sparks and quickly ignite. This is something that can be protected against by routine maintenance.
Routine Maintenance of the Vehicle. A lack of maintaining your vehicle probably isn’t going to be the main cause of a fire, but it can indirectly be one. Like above, frayed wiring can lead to a spark that ignites gasoline or oil. By doing a regular check up on your car you can avoid creating conditions in which a fire may start.
Fuel Leaks. One of the biggest causes of car fires is a fuel leak. These can be caused by many different things, but can also arise on their own. Gasoline can quickly ignite, especially when dripping on hot metal or plastic. If you smell gas in or around your car, try to find and fix the leak as quickly as you can. If you see smoke and smell gas, immediately get out of the vehicle and stand away from it.
Mourning the Loss of a Loved One or Friend after a Fatal Car Accident
Car fire accidents can happen quickly. Any time a loved one or friend has been seriously injured or killed in a car crash, it’s unexpected and terribly saddening. The grief that arises from these times can be extremely difficult to deal with.
It is important for those close to someone grieving in this time to make sure they have their needs and responsibilities met. Sometimes a balance of space and being close is the best thing. Everyone mourns the loss of others differently.
Negligence and Wrongful Death Claims after a Fatal Car Accident
While it may appear that the driver was speeding or driving unsafely, a further investigation may find that something happened in the car or that another driver was at fault. A car accident lawyer may be able to help the family in this regard by taking charge of that for them.
Car accident attorneys are able to help grieving families by filing claims against at-fault drivers or the manufacturer of negligent designs. A negligence or wrongful death claim would seek monetary compensation for things like funeral and medical expenses, loss of companionship of a loved one, loss of expected income, and more.
Losing a loved one or family member unexpectedly is a terrible and tragic event. While we understand not everyone’s first thought is “do I need a lawyer?” after such an accident, a wrongful death claim may be helpful. We offer free advice and our goal is to help you. Please feel free to call us today at (916) 619-5452, fill out our form online, or email us at info@hanecaklaw.com.
