Burn Injuries Suffered in a Car Accident

Burns that penetrate several layers of skin, muscle tissue, and bones are the most severe. These burn injuries may require painful skin graft operations to repair the burn-damaged tissues. Whether these burn injuries occur at home, at work, or any other place, if caused by a third-party could be compensable under Georgia law.

There are multiple categories of burns:

• First-degree burns are generally the most minor of burn injuries and typically do not need emergency medical treatment. The burnt area of skin is discolored and painful to the touch. First-degree burns generally affect only the outer layers of skin. First-degree burn victims are often instructed to cool the skin and keep the skin dry, apply aloe vera or other skin ointments, and to take over-the-counter pain medication.

• Second-degree burns are more serious burns than first-degree burns that penetrate deeper into the skin. The burned skin is often discolored, swollen, and blistered. Second-degree burns are very painful. These burns may require emergency medical treatment, however, when the second-degree burn affects more than 50 percent of the victim's body or face, medical treatment may be necessary. Treatment for second-degree burns often includes pain management and skin ointments. Also, second-degree burns can become infected after the blisters have burst.

• Third-degree burns are the most severe burn injury. These burns affect more layers of skin, bone, and tissue. Third-degree burns often appear white or charred. In some cases, the burn victim will likely not feel pain because of nerve damage. These burns are a medical emergency, requiring immediate medical attention. Third-degree burns often require skin grafts. Immediate medical attention will generally result in a better outcome for the burn victim. If the third-degree burn victim is not treated quickly, shock and other complications may result.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries:

• Electrical currents (e.g., electrocution);

• Chemicals (acids);

• Radiation (e.g., radiation for cancer treatments, x-rays, and tanning beds); and

• Frostbite.

Burn injuries can occur from improper medical care, fire, handling chemicals, and working with certain machinery. The resulting injuries of a burn victim can cause pain and suffering, lost wages, and economic and non-economic damages. If you've suffered any of these injuries or similar injuries, The McPhillip Firm can help you. Call us 24 hours/7 days a week for a Free Consultation at (404) 999-5LAW.

You can also visit us online at www.themcphillipfirm.com and use our Free Case Evaluation Form.