Car fires don’t happen often, but they can be terrifying when they do. Knowing how to react can make all the difference in keeping you and your passengers safe. Whether you’re driving or parked, here’s what to do if your car catches fire and how to lower the risk of it happening in the first place.

 

Where Do Most Vehicle Fires Start?

Vehicle fires don’t just happen out of nowhere — they usually start because of mechanical or electrical issues.

 

Common Causes of Vehicle Fires

• Electrical System Failures: Frayed wires, faulty connections, and malfunctioning car parts can spark and ignite flammable materials. 

• Fuel System Leaks: Even a small gas or diesel leak could lead to disaster if it touches a hot engine part. If you ever smell fuel, get your car checked immediately. 

• Overheating Parts: Engines, catalytic converters, and exhaust systems generate extreme heat. Poor maintenance or debris buildup could turn that heat into a fire hazard. 

• Flammable Materials: Items like cigarettes, matches, or even certain cleaning products can ignite under the right conditions. 

• Collisions: Accidents can damage fuel lines and electrical components. Always have your vehicle inspected for potential hazards after a crash. 

 

Other Contributing Factors

• Environmental Conditions: Extreme heat can push overheating parts to the limit. 

• Vehicle Recalls and Defects: Some cars have design flaws that make fires more likely. Stay updated on recalls and manufacturer advisories to protect yourself. Check out this blog post to see which car brands catch on fire the most. 

 

What to Do If Your Car Catches Fire

Acting quickly and staying calm can save lives if your car catches fire. Here’s what to do in an emergency: 

 

Pull Over and Shut Off the Engine

If you see smoke or flames while driving, signal and pull over as quickly and safely as you can. Choose a spot away from traffic, buildings, or anything flammable. Once stopped, turn off the ignition immediately, as this can help stop the fire from spreading by cutting off the fuel supply.

 

Get Out and Move Away

Exit the vehicle as quickly as possible and make sure all passengers do the same. Don’t waste time grabbing personal belongings. Once you’re outside, move at least 100 feet away from the car to avoid flames, explosions, and toxic smoke.

 

Call for Help

Dial 911 as soon as you’re safe. Give first responders your location and let them know if you see flames, heavy smoke, or hear explosions. If you can, warn other drivers to keep their distance until emergency responders arrive.

 

Stay Back

Unless you’re trained and have a fire extinguisher designed for vehicle fires, don’t try to put out the fire yourself. Opening the hood or doors can make the fire worse by adding oxygen. Instead, stay at a safe distance and keep others away.

 

Document the Aftermath

Once the fire is out and emergency services say it’s safe, take photos of the damage for insurance purposes. If possible, gather witness statements and contact information; this can help with any claims or legal actions you may need to take.

 

How to Prevent Vehicle Fires

While you can’t eliminate all risks, you can take steps to reduce the chances of a car fire, including: 

• Stay on Top of Maintenance: Regular check-ups help catch issues before they become dangerous. Watch for sudden leaks, frayed wires, and unusual smells. 
• Practice Fire Safety: As mentioned above, avoid storing flammable items in your car, be cautious with cigarettes, and don’t park over dry grass. 
• Pay Attention to Warning Signs: Smoke, strange smells, or dashboard alerts could signal potential fire hazards. 

 

Checking Out Your Options? Contact Our California Lemon Law Firm

If your car caught fire due to a defect, you might have a lemon law claim. At Norman Taylor & Associates, we help consumers fight for their rights when manufacturers sell faulty vehicles. Call 818-244-3905 or contact us to see if your car qualifies under California’s Lemon law.

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