Burn injuries are painful and can leave long-lasting physical and psychological scars. Whether it is a chemical burn from an unsafe product, a burn caused by a hazard on a poorly kept property, or an accidental burn at a party or function, you may need an experienced burn injury lawyer to make sure you are compensated for your medical expenses and pain and suffering.

Four main types of burns:

  • Thermal burns – caused by contact with fire, steam, hot liquids or other sources of extreme heat
  • Light burns – caused by  sunlight or  ultraviolet light
  • Chemical burns – caused by an acid, alkali or chemical explosion
  • Radiation burns – caused by contact with nuclear radiation

There are three categories of burn severity:

First-degree burns – The top layer of skin is damaged. First-degree burns are characterized by redness, minor inflammation. These burns cause minimal damage and usually heal within a week.

Second-degree burns – The damage goes beyond the top layer of skin. Second-degree burns are characterized by extremely red, blistered skin. These burns may take weeks to heal and should be properly bandaged.

Third-degree burns – The damage extends through all layers of skin and can affect organs and bones. Third-degree burns are characterized by a white or black dry wound and charring. Third degree burns can cause permanent nerve damage, hypothermia and even fatality.

Burns are one of the most expensive and traumatic injuries to treat. Even a simple first degree burn can become infected and require medical treatment. Extensive burns can cost thousands of dollars for treatment and rehabilitation, and often continually require medical attention.

Among the most common causes of burn injuries include:                                 

  • Oilfield accidents 
  • Car, truck and motorcycle accidents
  • Workplace explosions
  • Electrical defects
  • Defective products

Burns can be caused by gas explosions, chemicals, hot water or oil, electricity, fires and more. Regardless of where the injury comes from, the physical, mental and expenses of the burn injury will add up quickly.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in association with the United States Fire Administration:

  • Approximately 1 million burn injuries occur per year in the U.S.
  • There are approximately 7,000 deaths due to burns per year
  • Approximately 25,000 people are burned specifically by fire each year
  • These burns make up approximately 4,400 deaths per year

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence or carelessness, you will need an experienced personal injury attorney to protect your rights. Severe burn injuries can take a devastating toll on you and your loved ones. They can leave both permanent physical as well as mental disabilities including scarring, disfigurement, loss of limb, nerve damage, respiratory damage, nightmares and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

For further information in regards to burn injuries contact the Todd Law Firm at 512-472-7799.

David Todd
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Austin Texas Eminent Domain Condemnation Attorney