An Oregon jury has granted $85 million to nine victims of the 2020 wildfires, marking a significant development in legal proceedings that could hold utility company PacifiCorp responsible for billions in damages related to the deadly blazes.
This decision adds to the mounting legal challenges PacifiCorp faces over its alleged liability for the catastrophic wildfires that swept through the state.
Attorneys representing the plaintiffs expressed their pride in the strength and resilience of their clients, thanking the jury for holding PacifiCorp accountable. PacifiCorp, on the other hand, expects post-verdict rulings and insurance payments to reduce its share of the verdict to just under $80 million, according to a company statement.
While acknowledging the undeniable tragedy of the 2020 wildfires, PacifiCorp emphasized its commitment to settling reasonable claims for actual damages under Oregon law. The company stated that the threat of wildfires to communities and businesses is a substantial challenge that extends beyond any single company or industry.
The 2020 wildfires in Oregon were devastating, ranking among the state's worst natural disasters. The blazes claimed nine lives, consumed over 1,875 square miles, and destroyed over 5,000 homes and structures. In June of the previous year, a jury found PacifiCorp liable for damages, citing negligence in failing to cut power despite warnings from fire officials. The power lines were identified as a contributing factor to multiple blazes. PacifiCorp appealed this decision.
The damages awarded in this recent verdict apply to a broader class of plaintiffs, with further trials anticipated in February and April. PacifiCorp also reached a settlement last month, agreeing to pay $299 million to resolve a lawsuit brought by 463 plaintiffs affected by separate wildfires in southern Oregon during Labor Day 2020.
