Norfolk Burn Injury Lawyers

Helping Burn Victims in Norfolk, VA

Severe burn injuries are among the most painful and debilitating injuries a person can suffer. In addition to the physical pain, burn victims often suffer from emotional trauma and disfigurement. The medical treatment and rehabilitation for burn injuries can be extensive and costly. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our Norfolk burn injury attorneys understand the devastating impact a burn injury can have on your life, and we are committed to helping you get the compensation you need to recover. We have a proven track record of success, with over 50 years of combined experience and a long list of satisfied clients.

Call our office today at (855) 880-8163 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with one of our burn injury lawyers in Norfolk.

What Are the Different Types of Burn Injuries?

There are several different types of burn injuries, each with its own causes and symptoms. The severity of a burn injury is measured in degrees, with first-degree burns being the least severe and fourth-degree burns being the most severe.

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns are the least severe type of burn injury. They only affect the outer layer of skin, known as the epidermis. First-degree burns are usually red and painful, but they do not cause any permanent damage to the skin. Sunburn is a common example of a first-degree burn.

Second-Degree Burns

Second-degree burns are more severe than first-degree burns. They affect both the outer layer of skin and the layer of skin underneath, known as the dermis. Second-degree burns are usually red, swollen, and painful. They may also cause blisters to form on the skin. Second-degree burns can cause permanent scarring and may require medical treatment.

Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns are even more severe than second-degree burns. They affect all layers of the skin and may also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. Third-degree burns can cause the skin to turn white or black and may cause the skin to become numb. Third-degree burns always require medical treatment and often require skin grafts or other surgical procedures.

Fourth-Degree Burns

Fourth-degree burns are the most severe type of burn injury. They are similar to third-degree burns but are even more severe. Fourth-degree burns can cause damage to the bones and internal organs and may even be fatal. Fourth-degree burns always require immediate medical treatment and often require amputation of the affected body part.

What Are the Common Types of Burn Injuries?

Here are the common types of burns:

• Thermal Burns: These are caused by exposure to flames, hot objects (like metals, liquids, or steam), or even hot surfaces. The severity of the burn depends on the temperature and duration of exposure.
• Chemical Burns: These occur when the skin comes into contact with strong acids, alkalis, detergents, or other corrosive substances. Chemical burns can continue to damage tissue until the chemical is neutralized or removed.
• Electrical Burns: These result from contact with an electric current. The severity can be deceiving; while the entry and exit points might appear small, internal damage can be extensive, affecting organs, muscles, and nerves.
• Radiation Burns: Exposure to sources like X-rays or radiation therapy in high doses can cause radiation burns. These burns are less common and usually occur in medical or industrial settings.
• Friction Burns: These occur due to friction against the skin, often from a fall or being dragged on a surface. They can result in raw or abraded skin, similar to rug burns or road rash.

Each type of burn requires specific care and treatment. Understanding the cause and depth of the burn is essential in determining the appropriate first aid and medical intervention.

How Are Burn Injuries Treated?

Treating burn injuries involves several steps, and the severity of the burn dictates the necessary medical care. Here's a general overview:

1. First Aid: For minor burns (first-degree and small second-degree burns), the initial steps involve cooling the affected area under cool (not cold) running water for around 10-20 minutes. This helps alleviate pain and reduce swelling. Covering the burn with a sterile, non-adhesive dressing or a clean cloth can protect it.
2. Medical Evaluation: For more severe burns, seeking medical attention is crucial. Medical professionals assess the depth and extent of the burn, considering factors like size, location, and the cause of the burn. In emergency settings, stabilization and assessment occur simultaneously.
3. Cleaning and Dressing: Proper cleaning of the burn area is essential to prevent infection. Medical professionals will clean the wound, possibly removing dead tissue (debridement), and apply medicated dressings to protect the area.
4. Pain Management: Pain relief is essential, especially for more severe burns. Depending on the extent of the injury, over-the-counter or prescription pain medications may be used.
5. Prevention of Infection: Burn injuries expose the body to infection. Antibacterial creams, ointments, or specialized dressings are often used to prevent infection.
6. Fluid Replacement: Severe burns can cause fluid loss and shock. Intravenous fluids may be administered to maintain hydration and replace lost fluids.
7. Specialized Treatments: In cases of extensive burns, specialized treatments like skin grafts (where healthy skin is taken from one part of the body and transplanted to the burned area) or other surgical procedures may be necessary for healing and recovery.
8. Rehabilitation and Follow-up Care: Rehabilitation often involves physical therapy to regain mobility and function in the affected area. Regular follow-up visits with healthcare providers are essential to monitor healing and prevent complications.

Treating burns requires a multidisciplinary approach involving doctors, nurses, surgeons, and rehabilitation specialists. Severe burns, especially those involving a large area of the body, require immediate medical attention and often long-term care to achieve optimal recovery and minimize complications.

The medical treatment and rehabilitation for burn injuries can be extensive and costly. If you have suffered a burn injury due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. A Virginia burn injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options.

How Can a Burn Injury Lawyer Help?

If you have suffered a burn injury due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, recovering compensation for a burn injury can be difficult. The insurance company may try to deny your claim or offer you a lowball settlement that does not cover the full extent of your damages. An experienced burn injury lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you need and deserve.

Some of the ways a burn injury lawyer can help include:

• Investigating the cause of the burn injury
• Gathering evidence to support your claim
• Calculating the full extent of your damages
• Handling all negotiations with the insurance company
• Filing a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf
• Representing you in court, if necessary

Contact us today at (855) 880-8163 today to learn more about our compassionate and experienced legal team.