Burn Injury Lawyer & Burn Accident Attorney

Our St. Louis Burn Injury Attorneys can help you get compensation for burn injuries resulting from a car accident. Talk to a Lawyer for Free 24/7 at (314) 361-4242!

Whenever two vehicles collide at a high speed on the roadway, the results can be traumatic and catastrophic. Due to the presence of highly explosive engines and flammable gasoline, the chances of colliding vehicles catching fire are high.

A car fire can lead to severe burn injuries and even death. Because of the severe nature of burn injuries, a victim who survives may require immediate and intense medical care, long-term treatment, and rehabilitation. Burn injuries can leave scars or disfigure a victim, necessitating plastic surgery and other forms of reconstructive surgery.

Common Types of Burn Injuries in a Car Accident

Friction Burns

Friction burns are among the most common burn injuries in a car accident. These burns usually occur when the skin rubs against a rough surface, such as a seatbelt or the pavement. Friction burns can be very painful and can cause permanent scarring. In severe cases, they may require skin grafts or other surgery to heal properly. 

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns occur when the skin comes into contact with a corrosive substance, such as battery acid or gasoline. The severity of the burn depends on the strength of the chemical, the length of time that the skin is exposed, and the size of the affected area. Chemical burns can require hospitalization and may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. 

Electrical Burns

As the name suggests, electrical burns happen when you come into contact with an electrical current. This can happen if your car hits a power line or if live wires come into contact with your car during a crash.

Thermal Burns

These burns occur when the skin is exposed to extreme heat, such as from a fire or explosion. They are some of the most serious burns because they can damage deep tissue.

Different Degrees of Burn Injuries From Car Accidents

Burns are typically classified into three categories: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree.

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns generally affect the epidermis or outer layer of skin. These burns are typically minor and heal within a week or two with little to no scarring. However, first-degree burns can be more serious if they cover a large area of the body or if they occur on the face, hands, feet, or genitals. 

First-degree burns are treated by cleansing the wound and applying a cool, moist compress. Over-the-counter pain medications can also be used to help relieve discomfort. In most cases, no further treatment is necessary. However, it’s always important to seek medical attention to avoid infection, which is a common complication of burns. 

Second-Degree Burns

These burns are more serious than first-degree burns and involve both the epidermis and dermis or middle layer of skin. The skin will appear red, swollen, blistered, and might be very painful. Common causes of second-degree burns include contact with hot liquids or surfaces, electrical current, and chemicals. Second-degree burns require immediate medical attention as they can be very dangerous. Treatment generally includes removal of any irritants from the area (such as clothing), cooling the area with water (but not ice), and pain relievers.

Third-Degree Burns

These are the most serious type of burn injuries and can cause permanent damage to the skin and underlying tissue. This type of burn penetrates all the layers of skin, causing severe pain, swelling, and redness. The affected area may also appear white or blackened and may be numb due to nerve damage. Third-degree burns require immediate medical attention and can result in scarring, disability, and even death. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that burns cause around 180,000 deaths each year.

Compensation for Burn Injuries

It is not always easy to get the insurance company to pay all expenses related to a car accident. The medical expenses, in addition to time out of work, usually create a huge financial burden on the victim, making matters worse when the victim is already suffering from physical pain and mental trauma.

When you are injured in a car accident and have to seek financial compensation, time is the essence. Act quickly to protect your rights. 

St. Louis Burn Injury Lawsuits and Legal Representation

If you or a loved one have suffered burn injuries in a St. Louis car accident, it’s important to consider seeking legal representation to help you pursue compensation for your damages. A burn injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for your rights to fair compensation.

An experienced burn injury attorney can assist you in gathering evidence, building a solid case, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, representing you in court. They can help you obtain compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your burn injuries.

At The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C., we have over 25 years of experience representing clients who have suffered burn injuries in car accidents. We are dedicated to fighting for our clients’ rights and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation with a burn injury lawyer.