Burn injuries are a leading cause of death in America, killing one person every two hours and thirty-five minutes, according to the American Burn Association. When victims do survive, they typically face excruciating pain and possible long-term effects, such as disfigurement or a limited range of motion.
If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to another person’s negligence, speak to an attorney with the personal injury law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP. today. Our Northern Virginia burn injury lawyers have decades of experience protecting the rights of burn victims. Contact us to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options.
Why Choose Us For Northern Virginia Burn Injury Claims?
- We deliver exceptional results and have recovered over $1 billion on behalf of our injured clients.
- We operate on a contingency fee basis – we charge no legal fees unless we win your case.
- We are caring, compassionate, and client-centered. Your needs come first.
- While you take care of yourself, we will relentlessly seek the maximum amount of compensation possible for you.
Types of Burn Injuries in Northern Virginia
These are the most common types of burn injuries that occur:
- Thermal burns are typically caused by open flames, scalding hot liquids, and hot surfaces.
- Electrical burns are often caused by energy discharges, most commonly electrical cords.
- Chemical burns happen after contact with toxic or corrosive chemicals.
- Radiation burns are most commonly caused by sunlight and ultraviolet light, other causes include x-rays and radiation therapy.
- Friction burns are caused by the friction of skin rubbing against a surface, such as a road rash that commonly occurs in motorcycle accidents.
Degrees of Severity
Burns are typically classified by severity:
First-degree burns: These are superficial burns that only affect the outer layer of skin or the epidermis, and becomes very red and is painful. Sunburns are the most common of first degree burns.
Second-degree burns: Affects the epidermis and the outermost layer of skin below it, called the dermis. The dermis contains blood capillaries, nerve endings, hair follicles, and sweat glands. These burns are typically pink or red in color when pressed. Deep second degree burns are dry and whitish in color, don’t blanch when pressure is applied and may leave thick scars.
Third-degree: A very serious type of burn that destroys all layers of skin and can extend into subcutaneous tissue. The injured area will appear charred, white or black, and leather-like. Because extensive nerve damage occurs, victims tend to feel less physical pain at the burn site. Skin grafting or the use of synthetic skin may be necessary.
Fourth-degree: The most severe type of burn injury, as muscle, fat, tendons and even bones are typically damaged in addition to all layers of skin being destroyed. Amputation of the area may be imperative and extensive skin grafts are usually needed. Victims will often suffer from some degree of impairment.
Determining Liability of Burn Injuries in Northern Virginia
Determining who is liable for a burn injury heavily relies on the situation in which the burn occurred. When negligence is involved, liability can be narrowed down in order to hold the responsible party financially accountable for any damages sustained. Some examples include:
- Workplace accidents Burns can occur as a result of defective machinery, exposed or faulty wiring, hot equipment, steam, toxic chemicals, flammable items and more. Liability could fall on the employer for ignoring safety regulations, a coworker for acting negligently, or possibly the manufacturer of defective machinery.
- Hot liquids A hotel could be liable if a patron is burned by scalding hot water that their water system produces.
- Defective Appliances A manufacturer can be liable if a defective appliance they create catches on fire and causes a burn injury.
- Car Accident A negligent driver may be liable for causing an accident that results in a fire and burns passengers.
Why You Need Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis
Choosing to work with a lawyer is critical to your case due to their knowledge and experience in handling burn injury cases. It will ensure that the correct liable parties are identified and held responsible. An attorney also has the money and the resources to investigate the facts surrounding your accident in order to construct a powerful case on your behalf.
Since you will be advocated for, you won’t have to worry about the time consuming and complex legal process of filing a personal injury claim. All of the paperwork and negotiations with insurance companies or other parties to reach a settlement will be taken care of. All of your focus can be directed towards healing.
Speak to a Northern Virginia Burn Injury Attorney Today
The law firm of Koonz McKenney Johnson & DePaolis LLP, is an experienced group of burn injury lawyers in Northern Virginia who passionately advocate for our clients and care about their well-being. Speak to an experienced lawyer today if you or a loved one is suffering from a burn injury and have your case evaluated at no cost to you. Fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.