Severe burns are relatively common, but their causes vary. The seriousness of burns can range from minor burns you can treat at home to severe and life-threatening or fatal.
Burns are among the most painful and debilitating types of injuries, requiring costly medical care and ongoing services that lead to lost pay and pain and suffering. A diligent catastrophic injury attorney can help you file a lawsuit for compensation when someone else’s negligence caused you harm. Schedule a consultation with a Jackson burn injury lawyer for more information or help with your case.
Severe burn wounds, particularly those covering a substantial part of the body, can have long-term or permanent consequences that impact the individual’s life and family. Some examples of causes of severe burns include fires, scalding liquids, electric shock, and chemicals.
Populations particularly vulnerable include young kids, older adults, and those with disabilities. Over $1 million people seek care for burn wounds yearly, and approximately 45,000 require hospitalization. Hospitals across the country offer specialized burn centers for medical care, including ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and reconstructive surgical procedures.
The medical field classifies burns into different groups, called degrees, based on the seriousness of the wound and the damage it causes. First-degree and second-degree burns are less severe but can be painful.
Third-degree burns are grave. They affect all skin layers, underlying tissue, and muscle and may damage the bone. Anyone with third-degree burns must seek medical care immediately.
Treatment and recovery for catastrophic burn injuries include immediate medical attention and ongoing healthcare services. Intensive therapies, such as removal of damaged skin, skin grafting, and pain management, may be necessary.
Many find the recovery process long and challenging. A Jackson burn injury attorney can help people with burns obtain the maximum potential settlement they need to cover medical care, lost salary and other expenses.
Complying with state personal injury laws is vital for winning an award for damages from the liable party. The first law is the deadline enforced by the tort statute of limitations. While some case specifics can shorten or extend the time, people who sustain burn injuries usually have five years to petition the civil court and initiate legal action.
Another essential doctrine to know is modified comparative fault, which allows the plaintiff to collect a settlement if they are less than 51 percent liable for the damages. However, the court reduces the award for damages by the plaintiff’s share of fault.
The state follows a traditional at-fault system, and the at-fault person’s auto insurance policy covers the damages of others involved in the collision. A burn injury lawyer in Jackson can answer questions about the regulations and process for proving liability and collecting a fair settlement.
You have the right to pursue compensation when someone else’s recklessness caused you or someone you love to sustain severe burns in an avoidable accident. However, the civil court process is complex and often frustrating or confusing.
A compassionate Jackson burn injury lawyer can provide sound legal advice and guidance and fight for a fair outcome in your case. Call today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
(601) 624-7460