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Tractor in flames in Hermagor: cause still unclear!
In May 2025 there was a tractor fire in a wood storage yard in Hermagor. The cause of the fire was unclear, the fire brigade quickly arrived on site.
Tractor in flames in Hermagor: cause still unclear!
On May 19, 2025, a dramatic incident occurred at a lumber yard in Hermagor when a 48-year-old entrepreneur parked his tractor. At around 7:00 a.m. he noticed a loss of fluid and alerted an agricultural machinery technician. He arrived around 10:00 a.m. and immediately noticed the smell of burning. The technician tried to cut off the power by disconnecting the battery, but before he could do so, flames were already shooting out of the tractor.
The fire departments of Lising, Birnbaum and St. Jakob were immediately alerted and deployed with a total of 36 personnel. The fire was quickly brought under control, but when the police arrived the tractor was already fully engulfed in flames. The cause of the fire is currently unclear and the investigation is ongoing.
Causes and dangers of vehicle fires
Fire damage to vehicles can occur for various reasons. Mechanical defects that cause flying sparks or short circuits in the electrical system are common. Overheating of the engine, which can result from leaks in the fuel system or between the lubricants, as well as bite damage from martens can also lead to fires. Overheated brakes or defective exhaust systems pose additional risks, especially if unburned fuel gets into the catalytic converter. This is shown by the analysis of Boronin assessor.
Rural areas are particularly at risk, where vehicles are often parked on highly flammable surfaces. According to the insurer Car insurers register several thousand car fires every year. In 2022 there were around 12,200 cases, which statistically means more than 33 cars with comprehensive insurance per day. The average cost of vehicle fires is over 7,600 euros.
Insurance coverage in the event of vehicle fires
In the event of a car fire, comprehensive insurance can play an important role. This usually reimburses damage caused by short circuits, explosions or vandalism. If a vehicle is completely destroyed, the policyholder often receives the replacement value or a new car price, although individual checks are necessary. In the event of intentional arson, the perpetrator is liable for the damage. It should be noted that repair costs often exceed the replacement value, which can result in total economic loss.
Although electric cars are considered to be particularly at risk of fire, according to the General Association of the German Insurance Industry (GDV), their fire risk is no higher than that of combustion engines. However, the extinguishing methods are different because the fire brigade needs significantly more water to cool the batteries in electric cars. Preventative measures such as regular maintenance and carrying a fire extinguisher can be crucial to preventing fires and acting quickly in an emergency.
The tragedy in Hermagor highlights the potential dangers posed by vehicle fires. Given the often devastating damage, it is essential for vehicle owners to be well informed about appropriate insurance and preventive measures.