Every year, San Antonio and Bexar County report thousands of building, commercial and residential fires. These disasters cause extensive damage, including property destruction, physical injuries and lost lives. If you have been affected by a recent structural fire in San Antonio, consult with a personal injury lawyer in San Antonio for legal advice and assistance. We can help you secure the financial compensation you need.
San Antonio Fire Facts and Statistics
In 2022, Texas had a statewide fire casualty average of 1.7 deaths and 4.2 injuries per 1,000 fires (all fire casualties). This was lower than the national average of 2.1 deaths and 6.4 injuries. The averages for residential structure fires specifically were 6.2 deaths and 18.3 injuries per 1,000. So far in 2025, 21 home fire fatalities have already occurred in Texas, and 246 home fire fatalities nationwide.
Common Injuries Suffered in Building & Residential Fires
Fires are traumatic events that can cause an enormous amount of damage in a short period of time. A fire that breaks out in a private home, apartment building, office, warehouse or restaurant can lead to many lives changed and lost. A fire may ravage many acres of property and result in serious injuries before it can be put out.
Common injuries suffered by fire victims include:
- First, second and third-degree burns
- Chemical or electrical burns
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Nerve damage
- Respiratory injuries from smoke inhalation
- Respiratory failure (asphyxiation)
- Illnesses from inhaling toxic fumes
- Impact injuries from falling objects
- Fatal injuries and losses of life
- Psychological trauma
Structural fires are devastating in more ways than one. While the human impact is what matters most, fire victims also have to deal with the loss of their homes, vehicles and personal belongings. Although these valuables can never be replaced, a personal injury claim after a harmful fire can help a survivor rebuild with the financial compensation he or she needs.
Many building and residential fires in San Antonio are traced back to preventable causes, such as human negligence. Negligence refers to the failure to act with proper care based on a situation, resulting in harm to others.
Fire investigations in Texas often detect issues such as:
- Electrical problems and malfunctions
- Faulty electrical poles or wires
- Utility company negligence
- Gas leaks and explosions
- Poor construction or violated building codes
- Faulty heating equipment
- Improper storage of flammable liquids and chemicals
- Workplace hazards
- Smoking materials, such as cigarettes
- Arson (intentionally starting a fire)
- Natural wildfires or lightning strikes
Your rights as a fire victim in San Antonio depend on the cause of the blaze. You may have grounds to bring a claim against a property owner for unsafe premises conditions, an employer for a workplace fire or a manufacturer for a defective product.
How to Seek Financial Compensation for Your Fire Losses in San Antonio
Survivors of building and residential fires in San Antonio may be eligible for financial compensation for many of their losses, including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, property repairs or replacement, and the wrongful death of a loved one. The most effective way to seek compensation for your fire claim is by hiring an experienced San Antonio wrongful death attorney to represent you.
A lawyer can investigate the cause of the fire and take legal action against the at-fault party on your behalf. You can count on your lawyer to negotiate a fair settlement with an insurance provider for you – or bring your case to court, if necessary. Start your fire injury case with a free consultation at Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Lawyers. Contact us today.