The picturesque island of Maui, Hawaii, often synonymous with paradise, was shattered by a devastating wildfire in August 2023. This catastrophic event led to over a hundred fatalities and billions of dollars in property damage, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
In the aftermath, numerous lawsuits have been filed against the major power utility company serving Hawaii, Hawaiian Electric. These lawsuits allege that negligence on the part of Hawaiian Electric may have been a significant factor in causing the wildfire. In this blog post, we aim to shed light on the evolving situation surrounding these wildfire wrongful death claims amid the Hawaiian Electric controversy.
The Tragic Event
The Maui wildfire of 2023 began in the early hours of August 8, 2023, with a seemingly innocuous brush fire. However, strong winds quickly fanned the flames, causing the fire to escalate rapidly. By the time it was contained, more than a hundred lives were lost, and countless homes and other structures lay in ruins. The exact ignition source remains under investigation, but there’s growing suspicion that Hawaiian Electric’s infrastructure may have played a role. Social media videos from the early stages of the fire show downed or dangling electrical power lines, raising unsettling questions.
Hawaiian Electric: A Key Player
Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc., commonly referred to as Hawaiian Electric, holds a pivotal position in Hawaii’s power supply. It serves approximately 95% of the state’s households, owning and maintaining the majority of the power grid infrastructure. While the company boasts a long history dating back to the late 1800s, concerns have arisen about the adequacy of its infrastructure, particularly in the face of Hawaii’s unique environmental challenges.
The Lawsuits Against Hawaiian Electric
In the wake of the Maui wildfire, several lawsuits have been filed against Hawaiian Electric. These lawsuits – brought by individuals, families, Maui County, and private landowners – share a common theme: they accuse Hawaiian Electric of negligence. Specifically, they claim that the utility company failed to adequately maintain its power lines, neglected crucial fire prevention measures, and omitted the implementation of safety features.
One striking aspect of these lawsuits is the potential for an alternative liability theory known as “inverse condemnation.” This theory, previously used in cases involving other utility companies, could shift the focus from proving direct causation to holding Hawaiian Electric liable for its actions, or lack thereof.
Comparing Precedents
This Hawaiian Electric controversy echoes similar cases in California and Oregon. In these states, utility companies faced litigation due to strict liability rules. Notably, in Oregon, a jury awarded $90 million to wildfire victims in 2020. While Hawaiian Electric has argued against a policy of shutting off power during high winds, claiming the need for coordination with emergency services, the future may hold significant challenges for the company.
Potential Settlement Value
While it’s too early to predict precise settlement values, considering similar cases in other states, it’s conceivable that wrongful death claims against Hawaiian Electric could range from $500,000 to $1,500,000. Personal injury claims may have settlement values ranging from $100,000 to $1,200,000. These figures depend on various factors, including the strength of evidence and the unique circumstances of each case.
Seeking Accountability Amid Tragedy- Speak to a Wrongful Death Attorney [Los Angeles and Surrounding Areas]
The Maui wildfire of 2023 is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences that wildfires can bring, and the road to justice is seldom straightforward. As Los Angeles wrongful death attorneys, we understand the pain and suffering that individuals and families affected by such disasters endure. While the Hawaiian Electric controversy unfolds, we remain committed to advocating for the rights of our clients and the broader community.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a personal injury or wrongful death, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced legal team. Feel free to call the Law Offices of John J. Perlstein at (213) 252-1070 or contact us online for a free consultation today.