Burns are some of the most painful types of injuries a person can go through. They can require extensive plastic surgery, as well as rehabilitation in some cases. Burn victims can suffer not only physical pain, but also extreme emotional distress as a result of the experience itself or scarring or disfigurement, as well as lifelong medical issues as a result of a burn. If you’ve suffered a burn injury in northern California, it’s important to not only get medical treatment, but to also consult with a personal injury attorney.
There are many different types of accidents that can cause burn injuries. One of the most common is a car accident, when the vehicle catches on fire before the victim is able to get out. Another common cause of burn injuries is house fires. Some less common causes of burns include interactions with very strong chemicals, and electrical burns that occur when a person comes into contact with electricity.
If you are burned as the result of another party’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for your injuries. The party responsible depends on what type of accident in which you were burned. If you were burned in an automobile accident, the driver that caused the accident could be held responsible for your burn injuries. If you were burned in a residential fire, the property owner (if you are renting) could be held liable. Also, if the fire started because an electrical device malfunctioned, the manufacturer could be held responsible. For chemical or electrical burns, the employer may be liable (if a person was injured at work), or the chemical manufacturer may be liable.
Fortunately, there are ways to prevent burns. To avoid burns as the result of a car accident, obviously you want to avoid a serious accident in the first place, so don’t drink and drive or drive while distracted. It’s also a good idea to buckle your seat belt – that may prevent you from sustaining a serious injury during a crash that would hinder your ability to escape a vehicle. In any event, try to get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
To avoid home fires, install smoke detectors. You should also keep fire extinguishers on hand. Have your home’s wiring inspected every 10 years or so by a professional electrician. Be careful about the stove, which causes most house fires, especially if you have small children. Space heaters can also be dangerous. Prevent chemical burns by wearing gloves, and only handle chemicals if you know what you are doing. Electrical burns can be prevented by leaving electrical matters to the experts – don’t attempt a home repair involving electricity.
If you have been burned because of another party’s negligence, that party should be held responsible. Burn victims are entitled to compensation for their injuries. This could include compensation for present and future medical expenses, which can be extensive in the case of a serious burn. Burn victims are also entitled to compensation for other out of pocket expenses, and lost wages. In many cases, burn victims will be awarded compensation for pain and suffering, which can be extensive, as well as disfigurement.
At Liberty Law, Micha Star Liberty believes that burn victims should be treated with compassion and should pursue as much compensation as possible. If you are in the Oakland-San Francisco Bay area and you have suffered a burn injury, call Liberty Law at 415-896-1000 or 510-645-1000. Micha Star Liberty helps clients throughout northern California, including Berkeley, San Jose, Fresno and Hayward. Call today for a free consultation.
