Severe burns are among the most dangerous personal injuries a human being can suffer. At their worst, they can leave people scarred for life, both physically and mentally. In addition to the physical and emotional scars, burn victims can suffer serious financial consequences. The medical costs can be substantial, and the victim may not be able to return to work for an extended period of time, if ever. This is why it is so vital that, when the victim’s injuries result from the negligence of another party, he seeks out quality legal representation and receives the compensation to which he is entitled.

Useful Information for Potential Plaintiffs in Burn Litigation

The following questions are frequently asked by burn victims and should be explored before moving forward with a lawsuit:

1. Who can file a burn injury lawsuit?: Any person (or family members in the case of the victim’s death) who has suffered burns due to the negligent or intentional acts of another person or party can bring a burn injury lawsuit. Typically, burn victims are entitled to compensation to cover their medical expenses, physical and mental pain and suffering, and lost earnings. The case must be filed within the applicable statute of limitations, which differs from state to state.

2. Where did the burn injury take place?: If your injury took place at work and you are suing your employer, then you will have to prove that you were burned due to an accident that may or may not have been preventable, at your workplace, due to the negligence of your employer and his inability to follow safety guidelines and regulations (or from the lack of such guidelines and regulations).

3. Who was at fault for the injury?: To prevail, your attorney will have to prove that the defendant owed a legal duty to you, and then prove that the defendant breached that legal duty through his negligence or by intentionally doing something unlawful and hazardous, which resulted in your burn injuries. If you were at fault for your own injuries, you will not win a lawsuit against another party.

4. How severe are the burns?: If you prevail, the next step will be determining your damages. One of the main factors the judge or jury will consider will be the severity of your burns. Expert medical testimony may be useful in establishing damages.

5. Are you entitled to a workers’ compensation settlement?: If you were injured in the workplace, you may be able to receive workers’ compensation. Typically, this compensation is meant to cover the treatment expenses, disability damages, and rehabilitation expenses.

What to Do if You Have Been Severely Burned

If you have suffered a severe burn injury, and you believe your burns may have resulted from the negligence of another person or company, you should contact a personal injury attorney immediately. An attorney can review the facts of your case and determine whether you have a viable claim. If so, they can help you seek the compensation you deserve.