Owner Badly Burned After Massive Fire Erupts at Opa-locka Auto Shop: Legal Options After a Burn Injury

A devastating fire at an Opa-locka auto shop has left a local business owner with severe, life-altering burn injuries. The incident occurred last Thursday at Teiko Auto Sales, a well-known auto shop owned by 43-year-old Sebastian Guyher, who has operated the business since 2016.

Guyher spoke from his hospital bed, sharing the terrifying moment the fire broke out and engulfed him in flames.

According to Guyher, he was working inside the shop when a vehicle suddenly ignited. Within moments, the fire spread rapidly, leaving him trapped in intense heat.

“One second I was there, and next thing I know, I just feel this hot heat and the fire just getting higher and my clothes catching fire and I just ran out,” he said.

Guyher sustained severe burns across his body — including his face, arms, and hands — and now faces an extensive recovery involving major surgeries to repair and regenerate damaged skin.

His wife and family continue to support him daily as he works toward healing and hopes to return to work and rebuild his business.

Despite the emotional and physical hardship, Guyher remains determined:

“I’m just looking to get better… be able to work again… and try to get my business back open.”

Miami-Dade Fire Rescue is actively investigating what caused the fire. Auto shop fires can stem from several hazards, including:

• Faulty electrical wiring
• Gasoline or chemical ignition
• Defective equipment or machinery
• Malfunctioning vehicles
• Inadequate ventilation
• Lack of proper fire suppression systems

Determining the cause is crucial — not only for safety but also for evaluating potential liability.

Who May Be Liable in an Auto Shop Fire?

Severe burn injuries often involve significant medical bills, lost income, permanent disability, and long-term rehabilitation. If negligence contributed to the fire, one or more parties may be legally responsible.

1. Vehicle Manufacturer

If the fire originated from a vehicle defect — such as faulty wiring, fuel system failure, or engine malfunction — the automaker or parts manufacturer may be liable under product liability laws.

2. Parts or Equipment Manufacturers

Tools, lifts, electrical equipment, ventilation systems, or other machinery used in the shop could malfunction due to defects or negligent maintenance instructions.

3. Property Owner or Landlord (if applicable)

If Guyher leases the property, the property owner could be liable for:

• Unsafe electrical systems
• Failure to maintain fire suppression systems
• Code violations

4. Third-Party Contractors

If a contractor recently performed:

• Electrical work
• Renovations
• Equipment installation
• Fire system repairs

…and did so negligently, they may share liability.

5. Insurance Companies

Business owners injured on their own premises often face complicated insurance disputes. The insurer may fight or delay payment for:

• Business interruption losses
• Property damages
• Medical expenses
• Disability benefits

A lawyer can help force insurers to honor the policy limits.

Legal Options for Burn Victims in Florida

Burn injuries are among the most catastrophic injuries under Florida law. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Extensive hospital bills
• Surgeries and long-term care
• Lost income and future earning capacity
• Business interruption losses
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Permanent disfigurement or scarring
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Punitive Damages

If the fire resulted from gross negligence — such as ignored safety violations — punitive damages may apply.

Why Fires at Auto Shops Are Especially Dangerous

Auto repair shops contain multiple high-risk factors:

• Flammable liquids (fuel, oil, solvents)
• Heat-producing equipment
• Electrical tools
• Chemical vapors
• Confined working spaces

When a fire ignites in this environment, workers often have seconds to escape.

Because of these risks, strict safety standards apply — and violations can create grounds for liability.

What to Do After an Auto Shop Fire Injury

If you or a loved one has been injured in a fire at a business:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Care

Burn injuries often worsen rapidly.

2. Preserve Evidence

Photos, videos, damaged equipment, and witness statements can be crucial.

3. Do NOT Discuss the Incident with Insurers Alone

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts.

4. Contact an Experienced Burn Injury Attorney

Fire cases require detailed investigation, expert testimony, and aggressive representation.

Compassionate, Experienced Legal Representation for Burn Injury Victims

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer, we represent victims of catastrophic fires, workplace injuries, and business-related accidents throughout Miami-Dade and the surrounding counties.

We fight to maximize compensation and ensure victims and families receive the financial and emotional support they need.

• Free consultations
• No fees unless we win
• Direct access to an attorney
• Extensive experience with fire, burn, and premises liability litigation

If you or a loved one suffered burn injuries due to a fire in a workplace or business, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice.