Efforts That Will Prevent Wildfires from PG&E in the Future

With devastation already caused by the California Camp Fire, many individuals wonder how they can work together to prevent these serious incidents in the future. In the latest efforts, a judge has proposed that PG&E be restricted fully from using power lines that are deemed unsafe during the 2019 California fire season that has yet to begin. With these restrictions in place, rest be assured that fewer wildfires will occur due to PG&E’s equipment and negligence, but the company will be further strained as limitations are put on the areas they can service.

At this time, PG&E already faces billions of dollars in wildfire liabilities and will now have to take many other measures to ensure that prevention methods are in place before wildfires have the chance to begin once again. The U.S. District Judge, William Alsup, proposed that PG&E must also take measures to remove or trim trees that could easily fall onto power lines, which can cost extra money.

The goal of modifying and taking these measures is to eliminate the number of wildfires that could take place due to PG&E’s negligence in the future. This could mean interrupting service during events involving high winds, which could be an inconvenience to many, but one that could prevent one of these devastating events and prevent the number of injuries that occur and lives that are lost.

The judge believes that taking these preventative measures is what it will take for the company to make right with the future even though the Camp Fire has already occurred. The Camp Fire took the lives of 86 people and incinerated most of the Sierra foothills at Paradise. Dozens of lawsuits are being filed at this time and many more are expected in the future, which is why these measures are especially imperative at this time.

How PG&E Could Have Taken Preventative Measures 

PG&E explained recently that their company decided not to de-energize the power lines that led to the Camp Fire due to the fact that they were not expecting high winds and dry conditions that could lead to such a traumatic event. At this time, they are being held liable for their negligent actions and inactions following a fire that could have easily been prevented and became one of the deadliest and costliest wildfires in all of California history.

Especially in areas where winds can carry wildfires for miles, it is important that the power is shut off more frequently when the ability of these conditions can begin at any time. This is especially true after seeing the devastation that took place in Paradise, the town that was nearly completely destroyed by the Camp Fire, who experienced 52 mph winds hours before the fire was first reported.

Making the decision to shut off power can be economically unfeasible for businesses and those who depend on power for a variety of reasons, but it can also save lives. Now, as PG&E faces liability and the reality of bankruptcy, all that they can consider is what they can do for the future.

At Marlene Leiva Law Group, our experienced attorneys are willing to stand by the sides of those who have suffered the most extreme damages in the destruction of the California Camp Fire. Our experienced attorneys will help you file your lawsuit in a timely manner so that you can get started on collecting evidence in your case and working toward results after one of the most devastating and traumatic events in your life. Contact us to find out what we can do for you at 415-459-7300.