One of the biggest dangers with burn injuries is the possibility of infection. Even with a relatively mild burn, an infection can lead to hospitalization. That is why it is so vital to seek medical treatment as soon as possible if you suffer a burn — and to follow doctor’s orders precisely to protect yourself from this risk.
If you have been burned due to another person’s negligence or by a dangerous or defective product, the Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn can help. We will start with a free case evaluation, where we will examine the facts of your case and advise you of your legal rights and options. We represent all of our clients on a contingency fee basis, which means that you don’t pay a fee unless we recover a settlement or award for you. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at (310) 209-1600 or info@michaelkahnlaw.com.
Types of Burn Injuries
According to the American Burn Association , there are approximately 486,000 burn injuries each year that require medical treatment in the United States. This number includes 2,745 deaths from residential fires, 310 deaths from vehicle crash fires, and 220 deaths from other sources. Each year, 40,000 people are admitted to hospitals for burn treatment.
There are four primary types of burns that a person may receive:
- Thermal burns: the most common type of burn, this is caused by contact with something that is hot, such as fire, steam, hot liquids or other sources of heat
- Light burns: any type of burn caused by sunlight or ultraviolet light
- Radiation burns: any type of burn that is caused by contact with nuclear or another type of radiation
- Chemical burns: any type of burn that is caused by exposure to a chemical, such as acid
Medical professionals categorize burns by level of severity. With first-degree burns, only the top layer of skin is damaged. This type of burn can often be treated at home with aloe vera gel and cool water, and will heal with minimal damage within a week. Second degree burns are characterized by extremely red, blistered skin. These burns go beyond the op layer of skin, and may take weeks to heal. They must be properly bandaged and treated. Third degree burns are the worst type of burn, with damage extended through all layers of skin and potentially impacting organs and bones. The wound may be white or black and charred. This type of burn may cause permanent nerve damage, hypothermia, and even death.
Recovering for Your Burn Injuries
Burns can be incredibly traumatic, and the treatment is often expensive. Even a relatively minor first degree burn may become infected and require medical intervention. A third degree burn may require years to heal, along with hundreds of thousands of dollars in treatment. Any type of extensive burn can have a significant impact on your quality of life and ability to work.
Burns can happen in a number of ways, such as in a house fire, after a car accident, or even due to a dangerous or defective product. Damages for a burn injury may include past and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, scarring/disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering. A skilled California burn injury lawyer can work with you to help you recover the compensation that you need to fully heal from your injuries.
How We Can Help
Burn injuries can be particularly difficult to recover from, requiring extensive treatment over months or even years. If your burn injury was caused by another person’s negligence or by a dangerous or defective product, we will fight for your right to compensation.
The Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn represents Californians who have been hurt in all types of accidents, including those who have suffered burn injuries. Contact our firm today at (310) 209-1600 to schedule a free initial consultation with a seasoned California burn injury lawyer.
