What You Need to Know about Burn Injuries
Burns are some of the most painful and devastating injuries. If you have suffered a burn from an accident, it is vital to seek medical attention. At the Meade Law Group, we think that it is important to understand different burn categories, common causes of these injuries, and the damages that victims are entitled to receive. We work with clients to make sure that they get the justice that they deserve.
Different Burn Categories
There are four burn categories. They range in severity. The higher the degree, the higher the severity.
- 1st Degree. This is the least serious type of burn. It only affects the outermost layer of skin. Results are redness, pain, and swelling. In general, no medical attention is necessary.
- 2nd Degree. This burn damages the outer layer of skin and the second dermis layer. Commonly, blisters result. Victims feel significant pain, and the burns take weeks to heal. Many times, scarring results.
- 3rd Degree. This burn is referred to as a "full-thickness burn." It fully destroys the top two layers of skin and may damage a body's nerve endings. Often, treatment includes a skin graft.
- 4th Degree. This burn is the most severe and may be fatal. All layers of skin are damaged. Many times, bones and muscles are affected as well.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries
- Thermal Burns. These burns occur when a person touches a hot object, including an oven or iron. Also, they are common in car accidents when airbags deploy.
- Chemical Burns. These burns happen when skin comes in contact with strong acids, detergents, or solvents, including battery acid.
- Electrical Burns. These burns result from contact with an electrical circuit.
- Radiation Burns. These burns occur when the sun comes in contact with the skin or from radiation therapy that is associated with cancer treatment.
- Friction Burns. These types of burns happen when the skin rubs against a rough surface. They commonly result after motorcycle or bicycle accidents.
Damages that Victims May Recover
Most burns are preventable. This means that someone is to blame for injuries that occur. For example, a landlord may set the hot water heater too high, and a person may become harmed. The victim is entitled to compensation. If a negligent driver causes an accident that leads to devastating burns, he or she is accountable. It is possible to recover damages for pain, suffering, medical bills, and future loss of employment. In severe cases, the guilty party may be held responsible for wrongful death.
At the Meade Law Group, we defend victims in Johnson City, TN. If you have incurred burn injuries from a car accident, a product defect, or a different type of accident, we will make sure that the responsible party pays for your pain and suffering. We act on your behalf so that you can concentrate on recovery. For more information, call our office at (423) 464-7779.