Burns are among the most severe and dangerous injuries that a person can experience. Whether caused by a car accident or a house fire, or exposure to hazardous materials or something else, a serious burn can result in intense pain, extensive medical treatment, and long recovery times.
Additionally, many burn injury victims suffer permanent disfigurement and emotional trauma. What’s more, the burden of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses can easily overwhelm victims and their loved ones, leaving them feeling hopeless and depressed.
In New York City, burn injury victims can seek compensation for their losses through a personal injury claim. And so, if you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to the fault of someone else, it’s important to recognize your legal rights and what steps you can take to uphold them.
Here and beyond, the award-winning burn injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are prepared to fight for you. Call us now at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online to stop worrying and start recovering!
What Is A Burn Injury?
A burn injury is caused by exposure to heat, chemicals, radiation, or electrical damage. Burn injuries are commonly characterized by one or more of the following symptoms:
- Blisters and/or open sores
- Burned skin and/or damaged muscle tissue
- Nerve damage
- Charred bone
- Severe pain and discomfort
- Organ damage
- Scarring and discoloration
Note: The injury’s severity depends on its type and the extent of the damage. The most serious burn injuries can lead to permanent disfigurement or even death.
Additionally, many victims require extensive medical treatment, such as skin grafts, surgeries, and rehabilitation. That’s why it’s so important to pursue compensation for your medical bills and the inevitable loss of income you’ll experience while healing from a severe burn.
To get all the money and benefits you’re entitled to, call Schwartzapfel Lawyers now at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online today!
What Are The Types Of Burn Injuries?
Burn injury victims can suffer from various types of burns. People who work certain jobs, like construction workers or those who work with hazardous materials, may be more likely to experience a burn injury. To illustrate the different types of burn injuries, consider the following:
- Thermal Burns: These occur when your skin comes into contact with hot liquids, flames, or scalding objects. They are common in construction accidents and house fires.
- Chemical Burns: Exposure to acids, solvents, or other harmful chemicals can cause chemical burns. These are dangerous because they can continue to damage your skin and tissues even after contact with the chemical is removed.
- Electrical Burns: Electrical burns result from direct contact with an electrical current. These burns often occur in construction site accidents or from faulty wiring in homes and businesses.
- Radiation Burns: Radiation exposure, like in medical malpractice cases or industrial accidents, can cause radiation burns. These burns can affect both internal and external tissues.
- Cold Burns: Also known as frostbite, cold burns happen when your skin is exposed to extremely low temperatures. These burns are common in outdoor work environments during the winter.
Significantly, while the treatment and healing process can vary depending on the type of burn injury you experience and its severity, you shouldn’t let your medical bills pile up — not when you don’t have to. The knowledgeable burn injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are ready and able to fight for the full compensation you’re owed. Simply dial 516-342-2200 and start recovering today!
What Are The Different Degrees Of Burn Injuries?
Burn injuries are classified by degree, with first-degree burns being the least severe and fourth-degree burns the most serious. Defined further, the degrees fall into the following categories:
- First-Degree Burns: Affecting only the outer layer of the skin, these burns cause redness and mild pain. They typically heal within a few days without long-term effects.
- Second-Degree Burns: These affect both the outer layer of skin and the layer beneath. They cause blisters and can lead to scarring.
- Third-Degree Burns: These burns penetrate through all layers of skin, causing extensive damage. Third-degree burns may require skin grafts and can result in disfigurement and permanent nerve damage.
- Fourth-Degree Burns: This is the most severe type of burn, extending to the muscles, tendons, and even bones. These burns are life-threatening and often result in permanent disability.
Note: While first-degree burns may be effectively treated with simple first-aid care, a fourth-degree burn may require long-term hospitalization and can even result in death.
What Are Common Causes Of Burn Injuries In New York City?
Any number of hazards can cause burn injuries, including but not limited to:
- Vehicle Accidents: One of the most common causes of burn injuries is motor vehicle accidents, such as car accidents and truck accidents.
- Construction Accidents: Construction site accidents involving heavy machinery, work vehicles, electrical equipment, hot surfaces, or chemicals are also a common cause of burn injuries.
- Defective Products: Defective products, such as faulty electrical appliances or flammable clothing, can easily cause burns. For example, a faulty toaster can simultaneously be a burn risk and an electrocution risk.
- Chemical Exposure: Exposure to hazardous chemicals at industrial sites or in the workplace can cause burn injuries.
- Medical Malpractice: Finally, medical malpractice can cause burn injuries. Many don’t realize that certain chemical products and lasers used in facials, plastic surgery, and other cosmetic procedures pose a similar risk.
No matter the cause of your burn, the seasoned burn injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are eager to help you build a strong case. Call us now at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online today.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Instead, act now and start recovering today!
What To Do After A Burn Injury
If you or a loved one is suffering from a burn injury, you must take immediate action to protect your well-being and legal rights.
Seek Medical Attention
Your health should be your top priority. Go to the emergency room. Even if the burn seems minor, get medical treatment immediately. Some burns may not show the full extent of damage right away, and early treatment can prevent complications. Make sure to keep detailed records of your medical care and expenses, as well.
Document The Accident Scene
If you’re safely able to, take photos of the accident scene, the object or substance that caused the burn, and your injuries. This evidence can help build a successful burn injury claim.
Report The Incident
Notify the relevant parties about the accident. This might include your employer (if the injury occurred at work), the property owner (if it happened in a public place), or your insurance company (if it was the result of a car accident or defective product).
Contact A Skilled Burn Injury Lawyer
An experienced New York City burn injury lawyer can review your legal options and file a personal injury claim. Many law firms offer a free consultation so that you can discuss your case without any upfront fees.
The dedicated personal injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are on standby for a free case review. Our legal team can also help you gather evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and ensure your rights are protected. No matter your situation, it will be our honor and privilege to assist you when you dial 516-342-2200 today!
What Compensation Are Burn Injury Victims Entitled To?
Victims may be entitled to financial compensation for their injuries and losses, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses, including surgeries, skin grafts, rehabilitation, and future medical care
- Lost wages and earning capacity if the injury affects your ability to work
- Compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Non-economic damages, such as loss of quality of life or disfigurement
Note: If a loved one has suffered a fatal burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, the surviving family members can potentially file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for their loss.
What Is The Statute Of Limitations In New York For Burn Injury Cases?
In New York, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury case related to burn injuries is generally three (3) years from the date of the accident. However, certain cases, such as those involving medical malpractice or a government entity, can have different deadlines. It’s crucial to consult with a skilled burn injury attorney to ensure your case is filed on time.
Why Should You Contact A Skilled New York Burn Injury Attorney?
Hiring a skilled New York burn injury attorney can help you overcome legal obstacles, maximize your compensation, and make sure your rights are maintained.
The right attorney can handle every complicated aspect of your case, allowing you the time you need to heal after your injury. For instance, a qualified burn injury attorney will:
- Evaluate Your Case: During a free case evaluation, the right attorney can review your accident and advise you on the best course of action.
- Investigate The Accident: The right attorney can also gather evidence and speak to witnesses to build a strong case.
- Negotiate With The Insurance Company: A seasoned burn injury attorney can handle the insurance company on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Represent You In Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the right attorney can file a burn injury lawsuit and fight for you in court.
The experienced burn injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers are ready to help you through every step of the process. Call us now at 516-342-2200 or schedule your free consultation online today!
Get The Legal Representation You Need, Now!
You don’t have to face the aftermath of a burn injury alone. A dedicated burn injury attorney can help you fight for the maximum compensation you’re owed. Reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer for a free consultation today to get the legal support you need.
The seasoned burn injury attorneys at Schwartzapfel Lawyers have more than (150) years of combined experience fighting and winning for accident victims like you. Call us now at 516-342-2200 for a free consultation and so much more.
Don’t let your medical bills pile up and don’t leave your financial future to chance. Protect your health and your wallet by calling Schwartzapfel Lawyers now!
DISCLAIMER: Nothing on this page should be considered legal advice. You should seek the appropriate counsel your situation requires. For more information, call 516-342-2200 now!
Sources:
Schwartzapfel Lawyers, P.C. | Fighting For You
Classification of Burns – Health Encyclopedia | University of Rochester Medical Center
