Sacramento Burn Injury Attorney

Over Three Decades of Combined Experience Fighting for Burn Injury Victims

Explosions, chemical reactions, car accidents, and structure fires can all cause serious burn injuries in just a few minutes. The victims of such unfortunate events not only suffer extreme pain but also may find their appearance and agility permanently altered by extensive scarring. Treatment for burn injuries may require expensive specialists and last for months. Then, victims have to deal with the lasting effects like those mentioned above.

In such a situation, it can be easy to quickly become overwhelmed by the many decisions you face. Let our compassionate Sacramento burn attorneys take the stress of making an insurance claim off your shoulders. While we do the work, you can focus on your recovery. Our team is backed by 50 years of combined legal experience and known as passionate advocates for our clients. We are dedicated to helping you find justice (and fair compensation) after an accident caused by someone else.

Contact Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. at (916) 229-6755 for more information on how we can help you. Our Sacramento burn injury attorneys are here to speak to you 24/7.

Overview of a Burn Injury

A burn injury is damage to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction. The severity of the burn depends on the depth, size, and cause of the injury. Burns are classified into degrees, which indicate how deep the damage goes into the skin layers.

First-Degree Burn

A first-degree burn affects only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It causes redness, minor pain, and usually heals without scarring in a few days.

Second-Degree Burn

A second-degree burn damages both the epidermis and part of the dermis. It often results in blisters, swelling, and intense pain, with a healing time of a few weeks

Third-Degree Burn

A third-degree burn destroys both the outer and inner skin layers, sometimes reaching deeper tissues. The area may look white or charred and feel numb due to nerve damage.

Fourth-Degree Burn

A fourth-degree burn extends through all layers of skin into muscle, bone, or other deep tissues. These burns appear blackened or leathery and are typically painless in the center due to destroyed nerves.

Causes of Burn Injuries

The American Burn Association (ABA) reports that, annually, approximately 500,000 people across the country receive medical treatments for burns. According to the ABA, there are 3,400 deaths related to fire, burns, and smoke inhalation every year. While burn injuries and deaths can have a variety of causes, they all have the same devastating effects on their victims.

Our attorneys can help you file a claim for compensation after receiving a burn injury caused by:

• An Explosion
• Radiation
• A Vehicle Accident
• Chemical Exposure
• A Tanning Bed
• Hot Liquids
• Hot Metal
• Fire
• Steam
• Electricity

Fires and explosions can occur anywhere: at work, at home, or even in a car accident. Radiation and chemical burns might happen in industrial environments. A faulty charging cord could result in electrocution. No matter the circumstances surrounding your burn injury, our team can help you figure out if you’ll need to file a personal injury, defective product, or workers’ compensation claim. Then, we can help you take the steps to get started.

Long-Term Effects of Burn Injuries

The long-term effects of a burn injury can vary depending on the severity, location, and treatment of the burn. Some people recover fully, especially from minor burns, while others may experience lasting physical and emotional impacts.

Here are the common long-term effects:

• Scarring: Burn scars can become thick, raised, and discolored, especially after deep burns. These scars may itch or feel tight over time. In some cases, they can affect movement or appearance permanently.
• Contractures: Contractures occur when burned skin tightens during healing, pulling on muscles or joints. This can limit movement and flexibility in the affected area. They often require physical therapy or surgery to improve mobility.
• Skin Sensitivity: Healed burn areas often remain dry, delicate, or overly sensitive to heat, cold, and sunlight. The skin may not sweat normally or regulate temperature well. Long-term skin care and protection are usually needed.
• Loss of Sensation: Deep burns can destroy nerves, leading to numbness or reduced feeling in the area. This lack of sensation increases the risk of injury without noticing it. Sometimes, sensation returns over time, but not always fully.
• Amputation: Severe burns that destroy muscle, bone, or blood supply may require amputation to prevent infection or save a life. This is more common in electrical or fourth-degree burns. Recovery often includes prosthetics and rehabilitation.
• Chronic Pain or Itching
• Even after a burn heals, ongoing pain or itching is common due to nerve damage or tight skin. This discomfort can interfere with sleep or daily activities. Medications and therapies can help manage symptoms.
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Survivors of serious burns may develop PTSD from the trauma of the injury and treatment. Symptoms include flashbacks, anxiety, or fear in similar situations. Mental health support is crucial for long-term recovery.
• Depression or Low Self-Esteem: Living with scars or disabilities from a burn can affect how a person sees themselves. Feelings of sadness, isolation, or worthlessness may develop. Support groups and counseling can help boost confidence and mental health.
• Body Image Issues: Visible burns or scars can make someone feel self-conscious or different. They may avoid social situations or struggle with self-acceptance. Positive reinforcement and cosmetic options can sometimes help improve self-image.
• Infection Risk: Even after healing, burned skin is more vulnerable to cuts, bacteria, and infections. It may not heal as quickly or protect the body as well as before. Ongoing skin care and hygiene are essential.
• Respiratory Issues: Burns from fire or chemicals can damage the airways or lungs if smoke or hot gases are inhaled. This may cause lasting breathing problems like asthma or lung scarring. Pulmonary therapy might be needed for recovery.
• Delayed Growth (in Children): When children suffer serious burns, their bones and tissues may not grow normally around scarred areas. This can lead to deformities or uneven growth. Long-term care may include surgeries or growth monitoring.
• Rehabilitation Needs: Recovery from serious burns often involves long-term physical and occupational therapy. These therapies help improve strength, coordination, and independence. Some patients may need multiple surgeries or skin grafts over time.

Free Case Evaluation with a Sacramento Burn Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic burn injury, you need an experienced attorney to help you understand your rights. Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. takes the time to get to know every client so we can provide the individual representation you deserve. Let our dedicated burn injury lawyer in Sacramento fight for you.

We are available 24/7 to take your call at (916) 229-6755 or contact us online. Learn more about your legal options in a free, no-obligation consultation.