Traffic Accidents and Degree of Burn Injuries
Traffic accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, and among the most severe are burn injuries. Whether caused by vehicle fires, chemical spills, or contact with hot surfaces, burns require immediate medical attention and long-term care.
With the right legal representation, victims can focus on their recovery while knowing their legal rights are being protected. If you or a loved one has suffered burn injuries in a traffic accident, reaching out to a knowledgeable Nashville personal injury lawyer is a vital step in securing the compensation needed for the road ahead.
How Burns Occur in Traffic Collisions
Traffic accident burns can happen in several ways. One common cause of burns in traffic accidents is vehicle fires. When a collision occurs, fuel leaks or electrical malfunctions can ignite fires, leading to serious burns for those inside or near the vehicle.
There is also the possibility of chemical burns. These accident burns occur when dangerous substances come into contact with the skin or are inhaled, causing severe tissue damage. High temperatures from engine components, exhaust systems, or other hot surfaces during a crash can cause contact burns as well, which is particularly risky if the skin is exposed or trapped against these surfaces for any length of time.
Classified into degrees based on their severity, each degree of burn requires a different level of medical care.
- First-degree burns. These burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis) and are often characterized by redness, swelling, and pain. While first-degree burns can be painful, they typically heal within a short period of time and are less likely to leave lasting scars.
- Second-degree burns. When the damage extends beyond the epidermis to the second layer of skin (dermis), a second-degree burn can cause blisters, severe pain, and scarring. Recovery can take several weeks, and these burns often require more intensive medical care, including dressing changes and possibly skin grafts.
- Third-degree burns. The most severe category of burn, third-degree burns penetrate all layers of the skin, damaging underlying tissues, nerves, and even muscles. These burns often appear white, charred, or leathery, and may not be painful initially due to nerve damage. Third-degree burns require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and skin grafts, and have the longest recovery period, often taking months or even years.
Beyond the physical challenges, burn victims may also face emotional and psychological hurdles, including trauma, anxiety, and depression. The cost of medical care, lost wages, and the impact on quality of life can be overwhelming.
Navigating the Aftermath of a Burn Injury
A seasoned Nashville personal injury lawyer can provide you with essential support if you or someone you care about is healing from a burn injury sustained in an auto collision. Attorneys can guide you through the process of gathering evidence, communicating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking the case to court.
Were you involved in an accident with high temperatures? Burn injuries can be incredibly painful. The lawyers at Calhoun Law, PLC know how to access the financial resources you need. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation.
