What to know about burn injuries?

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Unfortunately, an individual can sustain burn injuries as a result of another person’s negligence. A burn injury can cause temporary or permanent physical and mental trauma that adversely affects a person’s well-being and quality of life. If you have suffered a burn injury as a result of any type of accident, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our skilled and determined Essex County Personal Injury Attorneys who can help you seek reasonable compensation for your damages. 

What are the different types of burn injuries?

Firstly, it is pertinent to note that burn injuries are classified into different categories based on the severity and extent of the wound. Burn injuries are classified as follows:

  • First-degree. Burns that are classified as first-degree burns are superficial burns meaning they only affect the epidermis (the outer layer of skin).
  • Second-degree. Burns that are classified as second-degree are partial-thickness burns which means they affect the epidermis and portions of the dermis (the inner layer of skin).
  • Third-degree. Burns that are classified as third-degree burns are full-thickness burns which means they destroy both the epidermis and the dermis.
  • Fourth-degree. Burns that are classified as fourth-degree is the most severe burn wound an individual can sustain and are typically life-threatening as they destroy all layers of the skin and cause damage to muscles, bones, and tendons.

Additionally, the following are different types of burn injuries anyone in any type of accident may sustain. The following are different types of burn injuries:

  • Thermal burns. A thermal burn occurs when an external heat source such as a scalding liquid or object comes into contact with the body and causes damage to the epidermis.
  • Chemical burns. A chemical burn occurs when a corrosive substance causes damage to the epidermis and parts of the dermis. Chemical burns may occur when an individual comes into contact with an acid or harsh solvent.
  • Radiation burns. Radiation burns occur when an individual is exposed to a high level of radiation for a prolonged period.
  • Friction burns. A friction burn occurs when an individual scrapes their skin in a fast motion on a harsh surface such as a floor or road.
  • Electrical burns. An electrical burn occurs when a person comes into contact with electricity (an electrical current) such as a live wire.

Unfortunately, several types of burn injuries can cause an individual excruciating pain and cause permanent damage to their skin. Ultimately, any burn injury can lead to other medical issues such as serious infections which could turn fatal.

Should I speak with an attorney?

Unfortunately, an individual may sustain a burn injury from any type of accident such as an auto collision, a slip & fall, or product liability. Regardless of what type of accident inflicts a person with a burn wound, if the injury was a result of negligence, victims must obtain the right legal representation to ensure they file a claim within the right time frame to seek reasonable monetary compensation for damages. Severe burn wounds are typically life-threatening and often require surgery. A qualified attorney can help a burn victim recover economic and non-economic damages for their losses.

If you have sustained a burn injury as a result of another person’s negligence, contact one of our compassionate and experienced attorneys. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve favorable results that help them seek the justice they deserve.