Serious burns, especially those covering significant portions of the body, are severe medical emergencies, requiring prompt and often extensive medical care. They are among the most excruciating types of injuries and usually lead to infections and other complications, scarring, and disfigurement.
The most grievous cases can be grueling and fatal. If you suffered severe and debilitating burns because of another person’s recklessness, an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer could help hold them accountable. Speak to a Missoula burn injury lawyer today for a free case review.
Medical professionals categorize burns by severity based on the extent of damage to the skin, tissue, and underlying structures. These categories include:
First-degree burn injuries are minor and only damage the outer layer of skin. They cause redness, swelling, and pain, and with basic first aid, will heal after a few days.
When the wound reaches down to the second layer of skin, it causes second-degree burns and leads to more pain, blistering, and redness. While treating them at home usually suffices, more extensive burns may require professional medical care to minimize scarring and complications. If someone else’s negligence caused your burn, a Missoula burn injury attorney could help you pursue compensation for medical expenses and other damages.
Third-degree burns are the most severe, affecting all layers of skin and potentially underlying muscle and tissues. They can appear white or charred and may cause numbness due to nerve damage.
Some of the most common causes of severe burns include:
A Missoula burn accident attorney could answer specific questions and help build a powerful case for damages.
Examples of the most typical accidents leading to serious burns in personal injury lawsuits include:
Severe burns, particularly those covering much of the body, are grave and can leave victims with lasting complications and illnesses, which can be life-threatening. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious burn due to someone else’s negligence, a burn injury lawyer in Missoula could help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Personal injury laws have strict deadlines for filing legal claims. Under the Montana Code § 27-2-204, burn victims have three years to pursue monetary damages from the liable party. Although extensions may apply in certain cases, promptly investigating and gathering evidence while it is still available, followed by timely filing, increases the likelihood of securing the maximum compensation.
The defendant can request to dismiss the case without hearing it when anyone files claims after the statute’s expiration date. A proficient burn injury lawyer in Missoula could take on the investigation evidence analysis and handle the court filings, communication, and negotiations to fight for a fair outcome and just settlement.
Severe burns can be life-threatening and debilitating, often causing long-term medical complications that significantly impact physical and mental health. They can impair mobility and result in scarring or disfigurement. When negligence or recklessness causes harm, personal injury laws provide a means to seek compensation from the responsible party.
A dedicated Missoula burn injury lawyer understands the challenges the injured party faces after severe accidents and provides guidance and support throughout the legal process. Call today to schedule a consultation with one of our burn injury lawyers for help with your case.