Just like any other personal injury, it is difficult to put a price on a burn injury. Often the severity of the burn, how it happened and why it happened will determine your compensation.
But, burn injuries do have higher settlement amounts, especially because of the excessive pain and suffering an individual suffers because of that injury.
Where and How
Where and how the burn occurred is a key piece of information for attorneys. This determines how liable the other party is for the injury as well as if the injured party is partially responsible. Most importantly, it determines the cause of the burn – such as faulty products, work-related injury, negligence, arson or intentional injury.
Severity of the Burn
Burns are classified by medical professionals into three categories: first degree, second degree, and third degree. These determine the severity of the burn. Obviously, the more severe the burn, t higher the settlement.
- First Degree – First degree burns are minor. These can cause some skin irritation, but the injury does not last long and there is limited care needed for this type of burn.
- Second Degree – These burns are more serious and can cause pain. The deeper layers of the skin are affected with this type of burn, which can increase the chances of infection, too. Second degree burns can be serious enough to require hospitalization, especially if they cover more than 10 percent of a person’s body.
- Third Degree – These are the most serious and can result in death. Also referred to as full thickness burns, most of the skin, nerves and even tendons are damaged. The victim may not feel pain in the burnt area, but these burns can require extensive care, skin graphs, and often leave permanent scars.
Determining the Amount of Compensation
Every burn case is unique. The circumstances and type of burn can often determine how much a claim is worth. An attorney will assess multiple factors when coming up with an exact figure, which can include:
- Medical costs encountered after the burn
- Medical costs for long-term care and recovery
- Pain and suffering
- Time taken off work
- If the individual will be permanently disabled and no longer able to work
- If the individual suffers from complications, such as infection
- If the individual will be permanently scarred
- If the individual dies because of their burn
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a burn accident, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer in West Palm Beach. The team at Fetterman & Associates, PA can help you with your burn injury claim and make sure you receive the compensation you deserve. Call now for a free consultation at 561-845-2510.