Serious burn injuries are extremely painful and are accompanied by an ever-present threat of infection and permanent disfigurement. They frequently diminish one’s quality of life, ability to work, and emotional/psychological well-being. Treatment can be arduous and ongoing.
Thermal Burns
Thermal burns result from contact with fire, steam, hot solids and liquids, or other sources of extreme heat. Burns caused by hot liquids are the leading cause of burn injuries among children.
Chemical Burns
Sources of chemical burns include health and beauty products that react poorly with one’s skin, car battery acid, household products with harsh cleaning agents, a chemical leak at a workplace, etc.
Electrical Burns
Electrical burns — caused by direct contact with live electricity (e.g., electrical outlets, exposed wiring,
lightning) — aren’t always noticeable on the surface but can do severe damage to deeper tissue and internal
organs, and can trigger heart attacks and brain damage.
Radiation Burns
Radiation burns are most prevalent in certain workplace settings or with patients receiving various medical treatments. “Radiation” also encompasses burns caused by ultraviolet light. There are three burn classifications:
- First-degree burns cause minor damage to the top layer of skin (the skin has three layers). Aloe vera gel and cool water (not ice!) should heal these burns within a week.
- Second-degree burns damage the top two skin layers and are marked by bright-red and blistered skin. They require treatment and bandaging by a medical professional and may take weeks to heal.
- Third-degree burns penetrate all three layers of skin. Some inflict damage on bones and internal organs, cause permanent nerve damage, may be life threatening, and demand emergency medical treatment.
If you suffer burn injuries due to someone’s negligent actions or a defective product, contact our office to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 404-474-0804 or fill out a contact form here to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.