Hammond Burn Injury Lawyer
When an individual sustains a burn injury, they may have extreme pain, that could last weeks or possibly months in the hospital. Individuals may need to have countless surgeries and skin grafts to repair the damage.
If you or a loved one were severely injured due to the negligent actions of another, a Hammond burn injury lawyer can help you hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. A skilled catastrophic injury attorney can help you seek the compensation you need to move forward.
Burn Injury Classifications
Burn injuries are classified by type and severity. There are generally four types of burn injuries including first, second, third, or fourth degree. A first-degree burn injury, which includes sunburns, generally heals well and leaves no lasting effects. Second-degree burns are classified as partial thickness burns, as they involve the skin’s outer layer, the epidermis, and the next skin layer, the dermis. While painful, those suffering second-degree burns usually recover, although such recovery is often long and challenging. Burns of the third and fourth-degree are some of the most serious injuries anyone can experience. For example:
- Third-degree burns – such burns eradicate the epidermis and dermis and may penetrate the skin’s lowest element, subcutaneous tissue. A third-degree burn appears white or a charred black.
- Fourth-degree burns – these burns destroy deeper tissue, which may include bone and muscle. The victim loses feelings in the burned areas since the depth of the burn destroys nerves.
Severe burns affect the entire body. A seriously burned individual generally goes into shock, and organ failure may result. Individuals who have sustained these types of burns are at high risk of developing infections, and their immune systems may be critically compromised. Inhalation injuries to the lungs are also common in burn victims.
A knowledgeable Hammond burn attorney can use the injured claimant’s medical records to prove the severity of their injuries in court to help them recover compensation for damages.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries
Because each burn case is unique, the cause may vary. However, the most common causes of severe burn injuries include:
- Chemical exposure
- Electricity
- Explosions
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Radiation
- Structure fires
A seasoned Hammond attorney can review the facts of a burn injury case and help determine the exact cause of the injured claimant’s harm.
The Statute of Limitations in Hammond
Under Louisiana statute CC 3492, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury case is one year from the date of the accident. It is best to contact a Hammond burn injury lawyer as soon as possible to immediately gather evidence to help the plaintiff recover compensation.
If a burn victim dies from their injuries, their families have one year from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Speak With a Hammond Burn Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one suffered a severe burn due to another party’s negligent or reckless actions, you may need the services of an experienced Hammond burn injury lawyer. A knowledgeable attorney at Kopfler & Hermann will fight aggressively so that you receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages and pain, and suffering. Call today to schedule a consultation.