Los Angeles Burn Injury Lawyer

Helping Burn Victims Seek Compensation in Los Angeles

Burn injuries are some of the most devastating injuries a person can suffer. They can result in permanent scarring, disfigurement, and loss of function. In the most severe cases, burn injuries can even result in death.

No one should have to suffer from such a life-altering injury, but when they do, they should know that they have a legal right to seek compensation. At Robins Cloud LLP, our Los Angeles burn injury lawyer is here to help you get the compensation you deserve. We know how to build a case and will fight to get you the maximum settlement you are owed.

If you or a loved one has been burned in Los Angeles, contact our burn injury lawyer today at (800) 691-2363 to learn how we can help.

What Causes Burn Injuries?

Burn injuries can be caused by a wide variety of accidents.

The following are the common causes of burn injuries:

• Thermal burns: These occur when the skin comes into contact with flames, hot objects, or liquids. Instances include touching hot stoves, spilling boiling water, or exposure to fire.
• Chemical burns: Contact with strong acids, alkalis, or corrosive substances leads to chemical burns, commonly seen in homes, laboratories, or industrial settings.
• Electrical burns: Caused by electric current passing through the body, these injuries stem from faulty electrical appliances, exposed wires, or lightning strikes.
• Radiation burns: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds can lead to radiation burns.
• Contact with hot objects: Burns can also happen by touching hot metal, glass, or cooking utensils.
• Scald burns: Similar to thermal burns, these result from contact with hot liquids, such as boiling water, hot oil, or steam. Kitchen accidents or spills often cause scald burns.
• Friction burns: Occurring when skin rubs against rough surfaces, friction burns result from motorcycle or bicycle accidents, causing road rash.
• Flash burns: Brief exposure to intense heat or flames, such as during explosions or flash fires, causes flash burns.
• Inhalation injuries: Inhaling hot air, smoke, or toxic fumes during a fire can result in burns to the respiratory tract, posing life-threatening risks.
• Overexposure to extreme temperatures: Experiencing prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures (frostbite) or extremely hot environments (heatstroke) can cause burns as well.

Types of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can vary in severity. They can range from first-degree burns to third-degree burns. They can be partial or full-thickness. They can be caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, and more. It is important to know the type of burn injury you have suffered because this will determine how much compensation you can seek.

There are three main types of burn injuries:

• First-degree burns: These burns are the least severe and are characterized by redness and pain. They are caused by heat and are not typically life-threatening. These burns typically heal within a few days without scarring.
• Second-degree burns: These burns are characterized by redness and blisters. They can cause pain, swelling, and loss of function. Healing time varies depending on the depth and extent of the burn. Superficial second-degree burns can take several weeks to heal, while deep second-degree burns may require several months and can cause scarring.
• Third-degree burns: These burns are the most severe and extend through the entire thickness of the skin, damaging the underlying tissues, nerves, and blood vessels. The skin may appear white, blackened, or charred, and there may be a lack of sensation due to nerve damage. These burns require immediate medical attention and often necessitate specialized care such as skin grafting or reconstructive surgery. Healing is slow, and scarring is almost certain.

Medical Treatment for Burn Injuries

The medical treatment for burn injuries can vary widely based on the severity and extent of the burns. Generally, burn injury treatment follows a few key steps:

• Assessment: Upon arrival at a medical facility, healthcare professionals assess the extent and severity of the burns. They determine the depth of the burns (first, second, third degree) and the total body surface area affected. This assessment guides further treatment.
• Pain Management: Pain from burns can be excruciating. Immediate pain management is crucial and may involve pain-relieving medications or topical treatments.
• Cleaning and Dressing: Cleaning the burn wounds is vital to prevent infection. Depending on the severity, this might involve gentle washing, removal of dead tissue, and applying specialized dressings or creams.
• Fluid Replacement: Severe burns can lead to fluid loss and shock. Intravenous fluids might be administered to maintain proper hydration and stabilize the patient's condition.
• Wound Care and Healing: For more severe burns, specialized wound care is necessary. This might include regular cleaning, debridement (removing dead tissue), and sometimes surgeries like skin grafts to help the burned skin heal.
• Infection Prevention: Burned skin is highly susceptible to infection. Antibiotics or other medications might be prescribed to prevent or treat infections.
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation: For extensive burns, physical therapy and rehabilitation help in regaining mobility, reducing scarring, and restoring function to the affected areas.
• Psychological Support: Burn injuries can have significant psychological effects. Patients might require counseling or therapy to cope with the emotional impact of their injuries.

For severe burns, specialized burn centers or units equipped with advanced resources and expertise are often necessary for comprehensive treatment. The goal of medical treatment for burn injuries is not only to heal the physical wounds but also to minimize scarring, prevent complications, and aid in the overall recovery and well-being of the patient. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual's needs based on the type, severity, and location of the burns.

Damages for Burn Injuries

when someone files a burn injury claim seeking compensation for their injuries, there are several types of damages they may pursue. These damages aim to provide compensation for various losses and hardships resulting from the burn injury.

Common types of damages in a burn injury claim include:

• Medical Expenses: This covers the costs of medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and any other healthcare expenses related to the burn injury.
• Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity: If the burn injury results in the victim being unable to work temporarily or permanently, they can claim compensation for lost wages and potential future earnings they would have earned if not for the injury.
• Pain and Suffering: This type of damage seeks compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the burn injury. It takes into account the suffering experienced and the impact on the individual's quality of life.
• Disfigurement and Scarring: Burns often result in permanent scarring or disfigurement, which can impact a person's self-esteem and quality of life. Compensation can be sought for the physical and emotional effects of disfigurement or scarring.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the burn injury significantly limits the victim's ability to engage in activities they used to enjoy, they may seek compensation for the loss of enjoyment of life.
• Punitive Damages: In certain cases where the responsible party's actions were particularly reckless or malicious, punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Burn Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, it's essential to have a skilled attorney by your side who understands the nuances of personal injury law in California.

At Robins Cloud LLP, we believe in providing comprehensive legal representation to burn injury victims. Our process begins with a thorough investigation of the incident to gather evidence and establish liability. We work with a network of experts, including medical professionals and accident reconstruction specialists, to strengthen your case and ensure that no detail goes unnoticed.

Learn more about your legal options by contacting our Los Angeles burn injury lawyer at (800) 691-2363 today.