Burns are a common injury resulting from personal injury accidents, caused by contact with hot surfaces, flames, chemicals, or electrical wires.
There are three degrees of burn injuries: first, second, and third. Of these degrees, first is the most minor and third is the most severe. A burn’s degree is based on its depth and how many layers of skin it penetrates.
A first-degree burn only affects the outer layer of the skin and may appear red and swollen. Scalds and sunburns are common examples of first-degree burns. They may be painful, but can generally be treated at home. These burns heal within a few days and do not cause permanent damage or scarring.
A second-degree burn affects the outer and some inner layers of the skin. These burns will appear red and blistered and can be exceptionally painful. Scarring may result depending on the depth, area, and size of the burn. Treatment for second-degree burns typically includes cool compresses, loose dressings, pain medication, and time. Medical intervention may be necessary, especially in the event of an infection.
Third-degree burns penetrate all layers of skin and sometimes the layers of fat and muscle underneath. They are the most severe and is typically white, red, or black in appearance.
Third-degree burns do not immediately cause pain because of damage to nerve endings. Because of this, victims may not realize the severity of their injury and fail to seek proper medical treatment.
Third-degree burns may require surgery, like skin grafts, to properly treat the wound, and they will also cause permanent impairment such as scarring, nerve damage, and movement limitations.
Besides the pain and scarring, burns over a large area of a person’s body can cause physiological responses unrelated to pain and scarring. This is especially critical in burns involving children who are much smaller. As a consequence, when there are burns over a significant area of an adult or child, they often require hospitalization and monitoring.
Burn injuries can be painful and can leave you scarred for life. Severe burns may be disabling and cause lasting distress.
The personal injury lawyers at Kopfler and Hermann are ready to assist you with your burn injury case. We are committed to fighting for justice and helping you receive the compensation you deserve, so contact us now to schedule your free consultation.
