Exposed to all kinds of external elements, the skin is a part of the human body that can become very sensitive and vulnerable to injury. Normally, accidents involving burns have a direct effect on the skin. In many cases, the effects can be reversed with adequate time, although in others, they may be left behind for life and may even require surgery to restore the damaged skin.
Unfortunately, handling industrial materials and not following the prevention tips for handling chemicals can be some of the triggers in workplaces. Have you ever witnessed a catastrophic event such as a major fire? If so, the best thing you can do is to get to safety immediately.
However, it would also be important to ask: Did you receive adequate training from your company to deal with this event? Do you have the appropriate emergency kit, such as fire extinguishers or fire sandbags? If not, someone should be held responsible for exposing others to danger.
A burn injury is not just a physical wound; it can leave lasting emotional and financial scars. When faced with such a distressing situation, seeking the guidance of a service-oriented Queens burn injury lawyer becomes so important. At The Ward Law Group, our legal professionals are well-versed in navigating the complexities of burn injury cases, ensuring that victims receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
The highly reputable Queens Fire Department has always expressed concern about taking the necessary precautions to reduce the effects of devastating events like fires resulting in burn injuries. They have indicated that anticipating and preparing for these events could mean the difference between life and death.
Fire is known to provide warmth and to be able to illuminate different environments. However, it is also an element that can cause serious injuries. This leads us to ask you: Do you know your rights and obligations in an event of this nature?
Knowing your rights will make you feel safer if you deal with this event. It will also help you understand the concept of negligence and know if it is precisely a concept involved in your case.
This article will provide a general overview of the most relevant aspects surrounding these events. We will also analyze how a Queens burn injury lawyer can help those who have suffered this type of injury and understand our professionals' role in providing emotional support to those who come to The Ward Law Group for help.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries
Determining the exact number of causes for this type of incident is impossible. They are usually multi-causal events, requiring a detailed investigation to clarify the events and thus determine who is responsible. We have evaluated any number of similar cases, and sometimes the causes may be similar, but there is almost always a factor of recklessness or negligence involved.
However, we never recommend generalizing; rather, we provide an exhaustive analysis of each case independently. Below, we have gathered some of the most common causes of this type of event so that you can have a broader vision of this type of event and thus have valuable information that will help you decide whether to continue with the legal process.
- House Fires: These are a significant cause of burn injuries because they are unpredictable and destructive. Fires can be started by faulty wiring, unsupervised candles, culinary accidents, or even purposeful arson. When a fire starts, it can quickly spread, consuming homes and seriously hurting individuals.
- Accidents at the Workplace: Burn injuries are more likely to occur in some work environments than others, particularly those that involve exposure to machines, chemicals, or open flames. Accidents on industrial sites and construction sites can cause severe burns that call for immediate medical attention and legal action.
- Electrical Incidents: Electrical burns are painful and can cause significant tissue damage. These burns are often caused by contact with exposed wires, faulty equipment, or inadequate safety precautions. Even seemingly simple electrical incidents can cause serious damage.
- Scalding Liquids: Boiling water, oil, or beverages can cause painful scalds. These are common in the home and can happen while cooking, bathing, or handling hot substances. Scalds are especially dangerous for children and older adults.
- Chemical Exposure: Coming into contact with substances that erode the skin, such as acids, chemicals, or industrial cleaning products, can cause chemical burns to the skin and the entire body. These events could become serious if medical and professional care is not sought immediately. That is why we always recommend going to the nearest emergency hospital as soon as possible. The situation could worsen if the oxygen from the environment is allowed to pass any longer. A burn specialist is often required to determine the first aid to be performed.
- Flammable Clothing Accidents: Clothing of extremely flammable materials can easily catch fire and cause severe burns. Accidents involving clothing catching fire can occur in various contexts, including kitchens, workshops, and even outdoor activities such as camping.
- Automobile Accidents: Traffic accidents can also trigger burn injuries in those affected by this incident. This is particularly likely if the vehicle catches on fire after colliding with some object or another vehicle or from dealing with some mechanical failure. Have you been involved in an event of this nature? Contact The Ward Law Group today and receive a free case evaluation.
- Hot Surfaces or Objects: Burns can also result from contact with hot surfaces or objects, especially when safety measures are lacking. For instance, playground equipment, exposed pipes, and machinery in public spaces or workplaces can cause burns if touched without proper caution.
The multitude of factors that can cause burn injuries emphasize the importance of being vigilant and taking proactive measures to ensure safety in various situations. The risk of sustaining burn injuries can be significantly reduced by practicing fire safety, dressing appropriately, and exercising caution around hot surfaces. Prevention is a critical element in mitigating this type of injury.
Degrees of burn injuries
We are not doctors, although we know many specialists to whom we have been able to refer several cases of clients who needed medical help. That is why our experience has allowed us to learn about aspects more related to the health area, such as the classifications of the different degrees of burns.
If you have been involved in any such event, knowing these classifications will help you understand the magnitude of the injury that has affected you and thus know what could be an appropriate treatment for your case.
Remember that beyond the legal aspect, which is what we are experts in, at The Ward Law Group, we also provide an emotional and human approach to not limit everything to the legal path but address other aspects that are also important during the process. For example, patience, the will to live, and the faith that things will work out in your favor.
First-Degree Burns
These are the mildest burns and normally only affect the skin's outermost layer, the epidermis. They frequently cause redness, discomfort, and minor swelling, like sunburn. While painful, first-degree burns usually heal on their own in about a week and rarely leave permanent scars.
Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns go deeper than the epidermis and harm the dermis, the second layer of skin. They cause more acute pain, blistering, and even edema. Second-degree burns can take longer to heal, and they frequently necessitate medical intervention to avoid infection and encourage appropriate healing. Depending on their intensity, they can leave scars.
Third-Degree Burns
These are the most serious, passing through the epidermis and dermis and frequently harming deeper tissues such as fat, muscle, and bone. These burns, which may seem burned or white, might cause numbness owing to nerve injury. Third-degree burns, since they damage the skin's natural barrier, can result in serious problems such as infections, decreased mobility, and substantial scarring. Third-degree burns generally necessitate medical intervention, such as skin grafts.
The size of the burn, where it is on the body, the victim's age, and general health are also important factors in determining the injury's potential complications and long-term effects. To reduce complications and achieve the best recovery outcome for second-degree and third-degree burns, it is imperative to seek medical attention for an accurate assessment and treatment.
Determining Liability in Burn Injury Cases
The journey toward justice and compensation in burn injury cases involves unraveling the intricate web of liability. Establishing who is responsible for the burn and subsequent damages is pivotal to seeking redress for the victim's suffering.
Premises Liability
When burn injuries occur on another person's property, premises liability frequently comes into play. Property owners are required by law to provide safe circumstances for guests. A property owner may be held accountable if a hazardous situation, such as improper wiring or combustible materials, contributes to a burn injury. These incidences might range from apartment fires to workplace accidents.
Products Defects
Suppose the products have a manufacturing defect, which has been a trigger for an injury. In that case, there may be legal liability claims that seek to determine if the manufacturer has had a degree of involvement in the facts by negligently marketing a defective product on the market.
Manufacturers, distributors, and retailers should ensure that what they market is safe for the community. Otherwise, they would be engaging in negligent behavior.
When a product, be it a chemical or an appliance, malfunctions and causes a burn, those who manufacture and sell it can be held liable. This liability includes design defects, manufacturing defects, and improper instructions or warnings.
Employer Negligence
As we mentioned in the lines above, Workplace burn injuries illustrate the importance of company accountability. Employers are required to provide their employees with a safe working environment.
Burn injuries can occur when safety precautions are ignored, inadequate training is provided, or equipment is not properly maintained. If an employee suffers a burn due to employer negligence, they may be entitled to compensation in addition to workers' compensation payments.
Causation and Evidence
Establishing causation and presenting compelling evidence is paramount in any liability claim. This involves demonstrating a direct link between the defendant's actions or negligence and the resulting burn injury. Evidence can range from testimonies and expert analyses to medical records and incident reports.
Consultation with Legal Experts
Navigating the complications of liability in burn injury cases demands legal expertise. A burn injury lawyer can assess the situation, determine liability, and gather evidence to support their case. Lawyers work diligently to ensure that those responsible for accidents are held accountable. They also strive to secure the rightful compensation for burn victims.
Fighting for Justice
Understanding the legal avenues for pursuing compensation is a significant step for burn injury victims. Liability can arise from colorful sources, including property conditions, imperfect products, and employer negligence. Burn injury cases require thorough investigation, evidence gathering, and legal representation to determine liability and obtain fair compensation for recovery.
Consulting a burn injury attorney can give you an idea of the legal options available if you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to another's negligence. Our experts assist victims in obtaining the justice and compensation they deserve. They guide them through the legal process to ensure a fair outcome.
Contact a Queens Burn Injury Lawyer
The Ward Law Group knows how difficult it can be to endure this situation. We are very sorry you have been involved in this type of case. We also want to remind you that everything is not lost. This may be the beginning of a long road, but we are sure the result will be worth it.
We do not want you to suffer in vain without someone to show you the best legal and human alternative for your case. That's why each case is evaluated simultaneously with a detailed investigation of the facts to determine the most concise and efficient strategy.
We will create a better community in Queens, where everyone's rights are equally respected and each day is safer than before. No one should take away your freedom through negligence. For that, you must know your rights, and we will help you to do it.
Call us today at 855-DOLOR-55 for a free case consultation!