How to Prevent Car Fires
Car fires can occur in car accidents. They take a terrifying situation to another level. Car fires can cause serious injuries to you and severely damage your car. The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reported that about 300 people are killed and 1,250 are injured each year from automobile fires.
About 152,300 automobile fires were reported per year between 2006-2010. Collectively, 209 people lost their lives, 764 were injured, and the property damage was worth $536 million. 10 percent of reported U.S. fires were automobile fires. While fuel tanks or fuel lines led to only 2 percent of automobile fires, they also led to 15% of automobile fire deaths.
If you’re recovering from a car accident involving fire because of another driver’s negligence, you have the right to seek legal counsel. Our car accident lawyers can help you in this difficult time. Located in Biloxi, Mississippi, we have years of experience with car accident cases. We’re prepared to go above and beyond to make sure you get the compensation you need.
What Can You Do to Prevent Car Fires?
The National Fire Protection Association lists plenty of safety precautions you can take to reduce the chance of a car fire.
- Service Your Car Regularly. Getting your car a regular checkup by a professional will make sure your car is running as it should. If you notice anything off with your car, get it checked out.
- Transport Gas in Small Amounts. When your transport gasoline, only do so in small amounts in a certified and sealed gas can.
- Keep Gas and Propane Out of Passenger Compartment. Gas and propane shouldn’t be with you in the passenger car. They’re flammable and the fumes can make you dizzy.
- Never Park Where Flammables Touch the Catalytic Converter. The catalytic converter converts toxic gases and pollutants to less toxic gases. Flammable things, like grass, should not come in contact with it.
- Drive Safely. While this seems like a no-brainer, sometimes it might be tempting to speed past a slower driver or check your phone on a seemingly calm road. But these two risky driving behaviors could get you or others hurt.
What Should You Do during a Car Fire?
While this situation might sound unthinkable to you, it’s better to have knowledge of what to do if you are in a car fire. The NFPA says:
- Pull Over Quickly and Safely. As soon as you can, get off the road. Still use your signal so you don’t endanger other drivers on the road.
- Turn Off Engine. After you’ve stopped, turn the engine off.
- Evacuate Everyone. Get everyone out of the car. Don’t delay for belongings or return to the car. Nothing is worth your life.
- Distance Yourself from Fire. Move away from the fire at least 100 ft. You want to put a lot of distance between you and the fire.
- Call Police. Once you’re at a safe distance, call the police and inform them of the situation.
Do You Need a Biloxi Car Accident Lawyer?
Have you or a loved one been in a car fire because of another driver’s negligence? With the help of Corban Gunn, you can get the compensation you need so you can focus on recovering and getting back to your everyday life.
Call us today at 228.284.6805 and we’ll discuss your options.
