It is illegal and extremely dangerous to intentionally set a car on fire. This act constitutes arson, a serious felony offense with severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences and substantial fines. Beyond the legal ramifications, a vehicle fire poses a significant risk of explosion, causing catastrophic injuries or death to anyone nearby and potentially starting a larger wildfire or property damage.
If you are facing a situation where you feel compelled to consider such a drastic action, like dealing with an unsellable or abandoned vehicle, there are completely legal and safe alternatives. These include contacting a scrap yard or a vehicle donation charity, which will often tow the car away for free. For a car that is simply experiencing mechanical issues, selling it for parts or "as-is" to a private buyer are viable options.
If you are inquiring about this topic for emergency preparedness, it's crucial to know how to react to an accidental car fire. Your priority should always be safety:
- Evacuate Immediately: Get everyone out of and far away from the vehicle—at least 150 feet.
- Call 911: Do not attempt to fight the fire yourself. Report the location and details to emergency services.
- Do Not Open the Hood: This can supply more oxygen and cause the fire to flare up violently.
Under no circumstances should an individual intentionally start a car fire. The risks to life, property, and your future freedom are far too great.
