Washington Burn Injury Lawyer
Table of Contents
Burn injuries are some of the most painful and devastating injuries a person can endure. The physical scars they leave are just the beginning, with emotional trauma often running much deeper. When such an injury is the result of another’s negligence or reckless behavior, seeking legal justice becomes crucial.
In such difficult times, a Washington burn injury lawyer becomes indispensable. With their specialized knowledge and experience, they navigate the intricate legal pathways to secure rightful compensation.
If you or a loved one has experienced a burn injury in Washington, you deserve representation that’s committed, compassionate, and competent.
Murphy Trial Law prioritizes your well-being and rights, offering a comprehensive legal service tailored to your unique case. Your journey to justice begins with the right legal partner like us.
Brief On Burn Injury And Its Classifications
Burn injuries occur when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged by heat, chemicals, electricity, sunlight, or radiation.
The severity of a burn injury is classified based on its depth, size, and the area affected.
While some burns are mild and only affect the skin’s outer layer, others penetrate deeper and can damage underlying tissues like muscles, tendons, and even bones.
Understanding the classifications of burns is crucial, both for medical treatment and legal purposes.
Below are listed different categories of burn injuries.
First-Degree Burns
First-degree burns are the mildest among burn classifications. They affect only the outer layer of the skin, causing redness, minor inflammation, and pain. Sunburn is a common example of a first-degree burn.
These burns typically heal within a week, and while they might be painful, they generally don’t cause permanent damage.
Second-Degree Burns
Also known as partial-thickness burns, second-degree burns affect both the outer and underlying skin layer.
Symptoms include blisters, swelling, and a reddened appearance with a wet look due to the damage to sweat glands. These burns can be painful and might take weeks to heal. Scarring can occur without proper care.
Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are severe, penetrating deeper skin layers and affecting underlying tissues.
The burn area may appear white or charred. Because of damage to nerve endings, the victim might not feel immediate pain. However, these burns require intensive treatment and may result in significant scarring or disfigurement.
Fourth-Degree Burns
These are the most severe burn types. Fourth-degree burns extend beyond the skin, damaging muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even bones.
The affected area appears charred, and there may be little to no sensation due to nerve damage. Such injuries are critical and might require surgical procedures, including skin grafting.
Stats On Burn Injuries In Washington
Burn injuries, unfortunately, remain a prevalent concern in Washington, as they do across the country.
Whether from household accidents, industrial mishaps, or recreational activities, these injuries can have life-altering consequences for victims.
Understanding the magnitude and specifics of burn injuries in Washington can help underscore the importance of prevention and the need for quality legal representation for victims.
Below are some statistics that shed light on the issue:
- An estimated 20-30% of hospitalizations are related to burn injuries in workplaces.
- From 1994-1998, a total of 290 burn injury victims filed claims for compensation in Washington. These injuries incurred direct costs of almost $2.8 million per year, resulting in approximately 7,600 lost workdays per year (an average of 132 lost workdays per claim).
- According to the American Burn Association, hospitalizations related to burn injuries in the United States are around 40,000.
- Burns with TBSA >10%: Out of these emergency department visits, a significant 22.6% required an inter-facility transfer.
- Burns with TBSA <10%: Only 2.7% of these visits resulted in an inter-facility transfer.
Remarkable Settlements​
$1.8 Million
Favorable liability verdict
$1.6 Million
A man injured in rear end car crash
$1.1 Million
Car crash
$1 Million
Wrongful death
$1 Million
Low impact car crash
$1 Million
Car crash
Causes Of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries, while common, can originate from a variety of sources.
Understanding the cause of a burn injury is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment and legal action, if necessary.
The severity and type of burn can largely be influenced by its cause. Some common causes of burn injuries are listed below.
Thermal Burns
Arising from exposure to open flames, boiling liquids, steam, or hot solids, thermal burns are among the most common. House fires, kitchen mishaps, or incidents involving hot metals or surfaces often lead to these injuries.
Rapid first aid, including cooling the burn under running water, is essential to minimize damage.
Chemical Burns
These burns occur when skin or eyes come into contact with irritants like acids, alkalis, or other caustic materials.
Industrial settings present considerable risks, but even common household cleaners or cosmetic products can cause chemical burns. Immediate and thorough rinsing is crucial to reduce the injury’s extent.
Electrical Burns
When the body becomes a part of an electrical circuit, it can lead to electrical burns. These injuries might appear minor on the skin’s surface but can cause extensive internal damage.
Common sources include faulty wiring, electrical appliances, and, in rare cases, lightning strikes.
Radiation Burns
Radiation burns stem from an overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. While the sun is a primary source, tanning beds and specific medical treatments, such as radiation therapy for cancer, can also be culprits.
Preventive measures, like using sunscreens and protective clothing, are vital.
Scalds
Scalds, resulting from direct contact with superheated liquids or steam, are frequent in domestic environments.
Spilled boiling water or steam from a cooking pot can lead to painful burns. It’s essential to be cautious when handling hot liquids, and in the event of a scald, to cool the area promptly.
Inhalation Burns
Often accompanying house or industrial fires, inhalation burns injure the airways due to inhaling hot gases or smoke.
Aside from external burn injuries, these burns can lead to respiratory difficulties and require immediate medical attention.
Friction Burns
These burns result from skin rubbing against a hard or rough surface, like in cases of road rash during a motorbike accident.
While often superficial, they can be painful and susceptible to infections if not properly treated.
Cold Burns (Frostbite)
Contrary to popular belief, extremely cold temperatures can also cause burns. Prolonged exposure to freezing conditions can lead to frostbite, damaging skin and underlying tissues.
Tar or Hot Plastic Burns
Occupational hazards in certain industries involve handling molten materials like tar or plastic. Spills or splashes can cause severe burns, requiring specialized treatment.
Fireworks Burns
Despite safety guidelines, fireworks remain a significant cause of burns during festive seasons. Mishandling or malfunctions can lead to injuries, emphasizing the need for extreme caution.
Psychological Impact After A Burn Injury And Its Treatment
Burn injuries, beyond the immediate physical pain and damage, often leave deep emotional and psychological scars.
The trauma of the incident, combined with the subsequent challenges of recovery and potential disfigurement, can trigger a range of psychological responses. Many burn survivors grapple with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and body image issues.
There’s also the daunting task of reintegrating into society, which can evoke feelings of self-consciousness or fear of social stigma.
Recognizing these mental health concerns is pivotal. Many hospitals and rehabilitation centers offer comprehensive care that includes psychological support.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, group counseling, and peer support groups have proven effective in aiding burn survivors in navigating their emotional journey.
Healing from a burn injury is as much an emotional process as it is a physical one.
What To Do After A Burn Injury In Washington?
Burn injuries can be traumatic, and the immediate aftermath can be chaotic.
However, knowing what steps to take following such an incident can be instrumental in ensuring optimal recovery and protecting your rights.
Immediate care combined with long-term strategies can assist in addressing both the medical and legal aspects of the injury.
A Washington burn injury lawyer can evaluate the details of your case and help you understand your rights.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Regardless of the burn’s severity, you must consult a medical professional. They can determine the burn’s degree and recommend appropriate treatment. Even minor burns can become infected if not properly treated.
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- Document the Incident: Photograph the burn and the source of the injury if possible. Write down a detailed account of the event while it’s still fresh in your mind. It will be useful if you decide to pursue legal action later.
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- Protect the Burn from Further Injury: Cover the burn with a sterile non-stick bandage. Avoid popping any blisters, as they act as a protective layer and prevent infection.
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- Stay Hydrated and Monitor for Shock: Burns can cause the body to lose fluids. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Symptoms of shock include clammy skin, rapid heartbeat, and shallow breathing. If these symptoms appear, seek emergency medical care.
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- Avoid Applying Ointments Without Medical Advice: Some ointments can cause allergic reactions or trap heat in the burn, worsening the injury. Always consult a healthcare provider before applying any creams or ointments.
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- Contact a Burn Injury Attorney: Especially if the burn was caused due to someone else’s negligence or a defective product, you might be entitled to compensation. A personal injury lawyer in Washington can guide you on the best course of action.
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- Follow Up on Medical Treatments: Adhere to any prescribed treatments, attend follow-up visits, and be observant of any changes in the injury. Proper medical care can prevent complications and ensure optimal healing.
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- Seek Psychological Support: Burn injuries can have a profound emotional impact. Consider psychological counseling or joining a support group to address these challenges.
Determining Liability In A Burn Accident In Washington
Determining who is at fault in a burn accident is crucial for victims seeking compensation.
Often, burn injuries can result from various sources, making it essential to identify the responsible parties.
A thorough investigation from a Washington burn injury attorney often reveals that more than one entity might be liable for the injuries.
Property Owners or Landlords
If a burn injury happens on someone’s property due to faulty wiring, inadequate safety measures, or other negligence, the property owner or landlord could be held liable.
They have a responsibility to ensure their premises are safe for residents or visitors.
Product Manufacturers
Faulty appliances, malfunctioning equipment, or defective products that lead to burn injuries can result in the manufacturer being held responsible. They have a duty to ensure their products are safe for consumers.
Employers
In workplaces, especially in industries where there’s a high risk of burn injuries, employers are expected to follow safety standards and provide proper training.
Failure to do so can result in their liability for any burn injuries sustained by their employees.
Utility Companies
Gas explosions or electrical burns caused by issues with utility supply can lead to utility companies being held responsible. They have an obligation to maintain and safely operate their infrastructures.
Individuals
In some cases, another individual might be responsible for the burn injury, such as in cases of arson or if someone accidentally starts a fire that causes injury.
Compensation For Burn Injury Victims In Washington
Burn injuries can lead to severe physical and emotional trauma.
In Washington, victims are entitled to seek compensation that covers various aspects of their damages.
A burn injury lawyer in Washington evaluates your injuries and determines a fair settlement amount on your behalf.
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Economic Damages
- Economic damages refer to the tangible costs victims incur due to their injuries. These can include:
- Medical bills: past, present, and future treatment costs.
- Rehabilitation costs: physical therapy, counseling, etc.
- Lost wages: due to inability to work or reduced working capability.
- Property damage: if any property was damaged in the burn accident.
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Non-Economic Damages
These are intangible losses that a burn victim might endure. They encompass:
- Pain and suffering: the physical pain and emotional distress following the injury.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: inability to participate in hobbies or activities previously enjoyed.
- Disfigurement and scars: emotional trauma from permanent marks or changes in appearance.
- Emotional distress: anxiety, depression, and other psychological impacts due to the injury.
Hiring Murphy Trial Law As Your Burn Injury Lawyer In Washington
Burn injuries are not only physically traumatic but can also lead to emotional and financial distress. When facing the aftermath of a burn injury, the right legal representation is paramount.
Murphy Trial Law assists burn injury victims in Washington, helping them secure the compensation they deserve.
With an impressive track record, our Washington burn injury lawyers deeply understand the intricacies of burn injury cases and are committed to fighting tirelessly for your justice.
With us, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal complexities.
Contact us today and let us be your advocate in these trying times
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