Burn Injuries Are Incredibly Painful and Can Cause Serious Disfigurement
Over 2.5 million burn injuries are reported across the country. Burn injuries are unique as they require extensive medical treatment, have a potentially lengthy recovery time, and carry a substantial chance of permanent scarring or impairment. Unfortunately, burn injuries are common and can be caused by a variety of factors—from faulty wiring to a gas line explosion. Burns are either caused in a severe car crash or in a premises liability incident. The nature of the accident changes the process for dealing with the claim as well as the methods of recovery. It is important to work with an attorney who understands the appropriate course of legal action and what to do to prove the case. Members of Goodnow|McKay are experienced with these claims and are here to help. We are committed to helping our clients recover fair compensation. We are often able to negotiate reasonable settlements with the responsible insurance companies, but we are willing to fight for our clients through trial if necessary.
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Common Types of Legal Claims and Recovery for Burn Injuries
Burns can occur in many different ways—whether from a car accident or from an electrical fire. Despite the variety of circumstances in which the injury can occur, burn injury cases usually proceed under a theory of common law negligence. What this means is that a burn victim may be entitled to compensation for their injuries if a person or entity had a duty to act in a certain way, failed to do so, and that failure caused the victim’s injuries.
If found that the victim’s injuries were the result of the negligence of another the victim may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, both past and future, as well as lost wages, pain, suffering, and potentially scarring or impairment.
Burn injuries have potentially life-altering consequences and it is important victims get experience and help they deserve.
Types of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are classified in terms of severity. The higher the number, the worse the damage:
First Degree: Generally, these are indicated by redness of the skin with sensitivity to touch.
Second Degree: These burns are characterized by blistering of the skin.
Third Degree: Third-degree burns usually have charred or translucent skin—these burns generally are numb and the severe nature of the tissue destruction can lead to scarring.
Fourth Degree: These burns have a high probability of leading to amputation or death. The burns usually affect substantial and deeper portions of an injury victim’s body.