Burn injuries may occur as a result of defective products, slip and fall accidents, and auto collisions. Regardless of what the cause of a burn injury, the consequences can be catastrophic and permanent. In the unfortunate event that you or someone you care about has suffered a burn injury due to another person’s negligence, contact one of our compassionate and dedicated Prince George’s County Personal Injury Attorneys who can help you seek the justice you deserve.
How are burn injuries classified?
There are several different types of burn injuries. Burn wounds are classified into different categories based on the severity of damage to a person’s body. First-degree burns only affect and inflict damage to the epidermis (the outer layer of skin). First-degree burns are milder than other burns as they are usually caused by scalding liquids or objects. Burns of the second-degree cause damage to both the epidermis and the dermis (the inner layer of skin). Third-degree burns damage nerve endings and destroy all layers of the skin. Fourth-degree burns are the most severe as they destroy all layers of the skin and result in significant damage to bones, muscles, and tendons. Fourth-degree burns are usually life-threatening and require intense medical treatment.
Additionally, different types of burn injuries may fall under a certain degree depending on the extent and severity of the wound. The different types of burn injuries include:
- Thermal burns. This type of burn may occur if a person comes into contact with an external heat source such as a hot object or scalding liquid.
- Chemical burns. This type of burn may occur if a person comes into contact with a corrosive substance such as a strong acid.
- Friction burns. This type of burn may occur if a person comes into contact with a rough surface such as a road.
- Electrical burns. This type of burn may occur if a person comes into contact with electricity (an electrical current).
- Radiation burns. This type of burn may occur if a person is exposed to a high level of radiation such as ultraviolet light in an X-ray machine.
All of these different types of burns can range from mild to severe. Depending on the depth and severity of the wound they may be classified as first, second, third, or fourth-degree burns. Unfortunately, severe burn injuries can lead to other medical problems such as infections. Certain medical treatments are required to prevent serious infections and scarring. Burn injuries can cause permanent scarring and damage to the skin. Victims may require certain surgeries and treatments such as skin grafts and plastic surgery. Additionally, victims may require special therapies and medications.
In the unfortunate event that you have sustained a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, please don’t hesitate to contact one of our trusted and skilled attorneys. Allow our firm to help you seek monetary compensation for your economic and non-economic damages.