When a Rental Car Fire Happens
Driving a rental car should feel safe, but a sudden rental car fire can change everything in moments. Whether you suffer burns, smoke inhalation, or escape without physical harm, the event can cause severe emotional trauma. Many survivors live with anxiety, flashbacks, or fear of driving after such a frightening experience.
Physical Harm and Emotional Trauma
Rental car fires can cause devastating injuries, including:
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Burns requiring long-term treatment
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Smoke inhalation damage
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Fractures or sprains while escaping
Even if you walk away unharmed, the psychological effects can be lasting. Stress, fear, and trauma are real injuries, and the law recognizes them.
Negligent Infliction of Emotional Distress
California and Arizona allow victims to pursue negligent infliction of emotional distress (NIED) claims. This applies when emotional suffering results from another party’s negligence. If a rental company failed to maintain or inspect the car, or if a manufacturer defect caused the fire, they may be responsible for damages.
To pursue NIED, victims generally must show that:
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The defendant owed a duty of care
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That duty was breached by negligence
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The victim suffered emotional distress as a result
In many cases, a rental car fire can create both physical and psychological harm, both of which may be compensable.
Liability in Rental Car Fire Cases
Liability may fall on:
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The rental company, for poor inspection or maintenance
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The manufacturer, for defective parts or design flaws
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Service providers, if negligent work contributed to the fire
Investigations often require experts to determine the cause of the fire.
Why Hire Fielding Law
At Fielding Law, we understand the life-changing impact of both physical and emotional injuries. Whether you are coping with medical treatment or emotional distress after a rental car fire, we are here to help. Our team investigates thoroughly, provides compassionate support, and fights for the compensation you deserve.
Call 833.88.SHARK for a free consultation.
Note: Information provided is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified attorney for legal concerns.
