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Burn injuries have the potential to inflict major and lasting physical, emotional, and financial harm to people affected. For those who suffer from such injuries, a lengthy hospital stay, many operations, and arduous rehabilitation may be necessary in order to fully heal. Burn injury victims suffer nerve damage or lose physical functions that may affect large parts of the body, complicating the healing process overall. If you need legal representation to file a claim for your burn injuries, visit this page to read more about your legal options.
Categories of burn and extent of the damage:
Burns are categorized by their intensity and extent of the damage. First-degree burns, also known as superficial burns, only impact the epidermis or outer layer of skin. Second-degree burns, affect the epidermis and a portion of the dermis. Third-degree penetrates the dermis and has an impact on deeper tissues. They leave behind skin that is burned, possibly numb, and white or blackened. Fourth-degree burns can damage your muscles and bones and go far farther than third-degree burns.
What are the most common types of burns?
As we have already seen, burns can be classified into several types, each causing damage in a distinct way. Electrical burns happen when the skin gets in contact with an electric current. Meanwhile, thermal burns result from exposure to hot surfaces or substances. Likewise, while radiation burns occur due to prolonged exposure to radioactive rays, chemical burns are caused by ingesting or inhaling toxic substances, and friction burns happen when skin rubs against a rough surface.
Burn injuries can have a major detrimental impact on a victim’s life, causing physical, mental, and financial hardship. For the victim to recover and restore their quality of life, appropriate medical attention and therapy are vital.
1. Types of Burn Injuries
There are four main types of burn injuries: first, second, third, and fourth-degree burns. First-degree burns are the least severe, while fourth-degree burns are the most severe.
- A first-degree burn is when the top layer of skin is burned. This can happen from exposure to the sun, contact with a hot object, or contact with a hot liquid. First-degree burns typically cause redness and pain in the affected area.
- A second-degree burn is when both the top layer of skin and the layer beneath it are burned. Second-degree burns are more severe than first-degree burns and can cause blistering, pain, and swelling.
- A third-degree burn is when all the layers of skin are burned and the tissue beneath is also burned. Third-degree burns can cause permanent damage and may require skin grafts to heal.
- A fourth-degree burn is the most severe type of burn. Fourth-degree burns not only burn all the layers of skin, but they also burn the tendons, muscles, and bones. Fourth-degree burns can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
2. Causes of Burn Injuries
There are many causes of burn injuries, but two of the most common are exposure to chemicals and thermal burns. Chemical burns can occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with a strong acid or alkali, while thermal burns are caused by exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Burn injuries can be extremely painful and can lead to permanent disfigurement or disability. If you have suffered a burn injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Once you have been treated for your injuries, you should speak to a personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.
At The Dominguez Firm, our experienced Sherman Oaks burn injury lawyers have helped many clients obtain the compensation they deserve. We understand the challenges you are facing and will fight to get you the maximum amount of compensation possible. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
3. Treatment for Burn Injuries
There are three primary types of treatment for burn injuries: medical, surgical, and rehabilitation. The type of treatment required depends on the severity of the burn and the extent of the damage.
- Medical treatment is typically required for first and second-degree burns. This type of treatment includes the use of topical ointments and/or oral medications to help relieve pain and promote healing.
- Surgical treatment may be required for third-degree burns. Surgical options include skin grafts, which involve taking skin from another area of the body and attaching it to the burned area. Surgical treatment is also often required to remove dead tissue from the burn area.
- Rehabilitation is an important part of treatment for all types of burns. Rehabilitation helps the individual to regain function and mobility. It may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or psychological counseling.
Is there a statute of limitations to file a lawsuit for a burn injury?
As per California’s statute of limitations, victims have two years from the date of their injuries to initiate a personal injury claim.
In case you anticipate that you may not be able to navigate through the legal process alone, a skilled burn injury attorney can assist in understanding the relevant federal, state, and local laws. It’s advisable to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable lawyer who can gather evidence and establish liability.
If you sustain a burn injury, you may be able to file a claim to receive compensation for your damages. Burn injuries can be extremely painful and often require extensive medical treatment, so it is important to understand the process of filing a claim and what you may be entitled to.
If you have sustained a burn injury, the first step is to seek medical attention. Once you have been treated for your injury, you can then begin to gather evidence to support your claim. This evidence can include medical records, photos of your injuries, and witness statements.
Once you have gathered your evidence, you will need to file a personal injury claim with the insurance company. The insurance company will then investigate your claim and determine if they are liable for your damages. If the insurance company denies your claim, you may have to file a lawsuit to receive compensation.
Burn injuries can be extremely serious and costly to treat. If you have sustained a burn injury, it is important to understand your rights and options so that you can receive the compensation you deserve.
Final Thoughts:
Engaging the services of a burn injury attorney can guarantee that you obtain equitable compensation for your injuries and can aid in maneuvering intricate legal procedures.
