Over one million individuals experience burn injuries in the United States every year (National Institutes of Health NIH), ranging from first degree (minor) to third degree (serious). While there are a variety of causes of burn injuries, special attention must be given to cases where injuries are a result of unsafe or irresponsible behavior. Did you know? If you are the victim of a burn injury, you may be entitled to compensation from those responsible for your accident or event. The burn injury lawyers at the Harman Law Firm want to speak with you regarding your personal injury.

Heat, chemicals, electricity, the sun and radiation are a few causes for burn injuries. Yet, when multiple layers and tissues are damaged, the muscles, blood vessels, nerves and even the bone are at risk for harm. This explains why someone with a third degree burn may not feel immediate pain. Third degree burns kill nerves below the skin’s surface that signal pain sensation. Even so, for those with serious burns, the damage is beyond skin deep. Infection, scarring, disfigurement, emotional and psychological damage are some consequences. In some cases, severe burns cause a tremendous amount of stress to the body, resulting in fluid build-up in the lungs and shortness of breath. Known as ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome), this condition can prove fatal.

Make no mistake—burn injuries can be a life-altering or permanently disabling event. Yet, when these injuries result from another’s negligent behavior, victims need help finding justice for themselves and their families. The Harman Law Firm focuses on clients with severe burn injuries and wrongful death matters related to burns. If you or someone you love has sustained a severe burn injury, call us today to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your injury and your options.

Types Of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries extend beyond touching a hot pan or a flame. The following may result in severe burn injuries:

• Chemical Burns: When acidic substances come in contact with skin in a chemical burn, victims often require special medical attention to prevent additional damage to skin.
• Electrical Burns: Caused by electricity, electrical burns may appear fine initially. Yet, immediate medical attention is highly recommended, because the extent of these burns cannot be judged from the outside.
• Radiological Burns: As a rare type of burn, radiological burns are caused by radiation. Treatment requires decontamination.
• Thermal Burns: When skin tissues come in contact with a flame, hot liquid, hot glass, hot coals or if skin is harmed during an explosion, this is considered a thermal burn.

Attorneys For Serious Burn Injuries

For those having sustained a significant burn injury, there are often considerable changes to body image and self-esteem. Depending on the event, the individual may experience post-traumatic stress and depression. For victims, the road to recovery can be lengthy and difficult. While first and superficial second degree burns tend to heal spontaneously over the course of a week or two, a full thickness second degree burn as well as a third degree burn can result in more damage than you think.

For instance, if an individual has been involved in an explosion, the damage to skin tissue is likely to penetrate deeper into the dermis. In a full thickness second-degree burn, scarring is present, painful and itchy. Scars tend to increase in thickness over time, and may restrict movement if the burn is located near a joint. On the other hand, when individuals suffer a third degree burn, damage reaches the subcutaneous layer and appears leathery and textured. It’s important to understand that third degree burns are serious, often requiring reconstructive surgery or grafting.

If you’ve been seriously burned as a result of the wrongdoing of another, a business or an organization, you need to contact the attorneys at the Harman Law Firm. We realize that your circumstances are unique. Thus, there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach to this type of personal injury. This is why we are meticulous when it comes to your case, gathering details, negotiating settlements or coordinating with your health care provider. If your case must go to court, you can bet that we are seasoned litigators, ready to argue on your behalf.

The bottom line is—victims of serious burn injuries often need ongoing medical attention. You may not be able to work right away. Your life will change. You need an advocate for justice and the right compensation. Contact the Harman Law Firm today for a free, no obligation consultation.