What You Should Know About Atlanta Burn Injuries
It is an unfortunate fact that many burn accidents are preventable. Negligent actions can cause fires, explosions, chemical spills, and unsafe electrical exposure that can harm others. Some common negligent burn accident causes include:
- Improper training at the workplace
- No warnings of electrical or chemical dangers
- Poorly designed electrical products
- Unsafe wiring causing electrical fires
- Vehicle or large truck accidents
Here are some important facts that you should know if you have suffered an accident like those described above:
Atlanta Workers May Have Different Options After a Burn Injury
In most cases, if you suffer a burn injury, your first thought might be to identify the at-fault party and sue them for fair damages. If your injury occurred on the job, however, you might have the option of pursuing a workers’ compensation claim instead.
No employer wants to see an employee harmed while working, but sometimes safety measures are not followed as thoroughly as necessary. If you believe you have suffered a burn injury as the result of poor workplace safety measures, our personal injury attorney can determine if you are eligible for workers’ comp benefits, such as medical care and disability.
Most Atlanta Burn Injuries Happen at Home
Frequently, burns occur in the home. They may be caused by heaters, stoves, faulty wiring, or even cleaning chemicals, such as bleach. Some fires can even destroy a home or apartment building, leading to more severe injuries and increased financial distress.
That said, the home is not the only source of risk: workers who are regularly exposed to dangerous substances, extreme temperatures, or open flame may suffer an on-the-job injury. No matter where your accident occurred, our Atlanta burn injury attorney can protect your right to seek compensation.
Fires Are Just One Source of Burn Injuries
The word “burn” may evoke images of open flames, and that is one way that a person can sustain a burn injury in Atlanta. There are, however, many potential sources of burn injuries. The types of burn injuries for which you could recover compensation include:
- Thermal: Thermal, or heat, burns result from contact with hot liquids or from exposure to explosions, flames, or heated objects. It is important to keep sparks or flames away from combustible materials. Employers should train employees to stay clear of hot surfaces and to practice caution when working around hot equipment.
- Chemical: Chemical burns occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with caustic or hazardous chemicals, such as industrial cleaners or solvents. Employers must provide an eyewash station and train employees on proper handling procedures. Chemical manufacturers should include warning information on their labels.
- Electrical: Electrical burns occur when a person comes into contact with high-voltage equipment. If an employee is working on electrical equipment, they should be trained in electrical safety. At home, check regularly for dangerous wiring, and hire an electrician you trust to deal with any issues that arise.
- Radiation: Certain radioactive materials can cause especially dangerous burns. As a 2020 study published in Aging explains, not only are such injuries painful, but they can also increase your risk of developing cancer. Avoid radiation if you can, and always exercise extreme caution when you cannot avoid it (e.g., when you are undergoing radiation therapy).
Burn Injuries Are Classified by Degrees
The scale for measuring the severity of a burn injury is as follows:
- First-degree burns cause damage to the top layer of skin. These types of burns can usually be treated at home.
- Second-degree burns damage the first and second layers of skin, require medical treatment, and may require a hospital stay.
- Third-degree burns affect all skin layers and the tissue beneath the skin. They require lengthy hospital stays and cause long-term damage. Skin grafts and extensive physical therapy may be required as well.
- Fourth-degree burns damage all layers of skin and tissue and can also damage tendons and bone. Most often, fourth degree burns require amputation.
The more serious your injuries, the more money you may qualify for. That said, even those with comparatively minor burns deserve to be compensated for the pain and inconvenience caused by the at-fault party’s negligence. The Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown can help you do just that.
Looking for Burn Lawyers Near You? Look to Our Firm
Our Atlanta burn injury lawyer can help you recover the money you deserve after a chemical, electrical, or heat-related injury. Call the Law Office of Dwayne L. Brown to get a free evaluation today. Our law firm works closely with each of our clients to make sure they get a fair chance of achieving justice for a severe burn injury.
