Car accidents can cause serious harm, and burns are among the most severe injuries people can experience. For individuals in Vermont who suffer from such injuries in vehicular accidents, understanding the potential causes, effects, and legal recourses available is essential. Burn injuries are often life-altering, requiring long-term medical attention and significant financial support. This article explores what Vermont residents should know about burn injuries resulting from car accidents, including common causes, classifications, legal avenues for compensation, and available resources.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Car Accidents

Burn injuries from car accidents can occur under various conditions. Some common sources of burns in car accidents include:

• Vehicle Fires: One of the most prevalent causes of burn injuries in car accidents, vehicle fires typically result from fuel tank ruptures or mechanical failures. These incidents lead to high-temperature flames that can cause severe burns.
• Airbag Deployment: While airbags are there to save lives, their deployment can sometimes cause friction burns or chemical burns due to the explosive force and chemicals used.
• Chemical Spills: If vehicles are carrying hazardous substances or if a collision causes a leak in the car’s battery, individuals involved may suffer chemical burns.
• Hot Metal and Steam: Following a collision, exposed engine parts, steam from radiators, or spilled hot liquids can cause scalding or contact burns.
• Electrical Burns: Electrical components damaged in an accident may expose drivers and passengers to electrical currents, leading to severe burn injuries.

Types of Burn Injuries Common in Car Accidents

Burn injuries are classified by degree and depth, with different degrees impacting the skin and underlying tissue to varying extents:

1. First-Degree Burns: These are superficial burns that only affect the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). They cause redness, pain, and minor swelling but generally heal with minimal medical intervention.
2. Second-Degree Burns: These burns reach the second layer of skin, the dermis, causing redness, swelling, blistering, and significant pain. They may require more intensive treatment and longer recovery times.
3. Third-Degree Burns: These are severe burns that penetrate all layers of the skin and potentially affect muscles, tendons, and bones. Third-degree burns often cause white or charred skin and may require skin grafts or reconstructive surgery.
4. Fourth-Degree Burns: The most severe type of burn injury, these burns extend through all skin layers and affect muscles and bones. They are life-threatening and require extensive, often lifelong treatment and rehabilitation.

Impact of Burn Injuries on Accident Victims

Burn injuries can profoundly impact a victim’s life. Beyond the physical pain and scarring, these injuries can lead to:

• Long-Term Medical Care: Third- and fourth-degree burns often require extended hospitalization, skin grafts, and reconstructive surgeries.
• Psychological Effects: Burn victims may suffer from emotional trauma, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Reduced Quality of Life: Severe burn injuries can impair a person’s ability to work, engage in social activities, and enjoy a normal lifestyle.

The financial strain of these consequences is often overwhelming. For example, the American Burn Association reports that the cost of treating a burn injury can be as high as $200,000 or more, depending on the severity.

Legal Avenues for Compensation

In Vermont, victims of burn injuries from car accidents have legal rights to pursue compensation. Here are some essential factors to consider:

Personal Injury Claims: Those injured can file personal injury claims to seek damages if the accident resulted from another driver’s negligence. Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Product Liability Claims: If the burn injury resulted from a defective vehicle part, victims could have the option to sue for a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor.

Insurance Claims: Under Vermont insurance law, the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering any injuries. However, insurance policies may have coverage limits, and pursuing additional legal claims may be necessary to obtain adequate compensation.

Wrongful Death Claims: In cases where a burn injury leads to death, family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.

Steps to Take After a Burn Injury in a Car Accident

Victims or their families can take certain steps after a burn injury to ensure that they receive the medical treatment and legal support they need:

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Prompt treatment is essential to minimize damage, manage pain, and reduce infection risk.
• Document Injuries: Take photos of visible injuries and keep records of your medical costs and treatments. This documentation will be valuable for legal proceedings.
• Consult a Lawyer: A qualified personal injury lawyer can help victims navigate the complexities of Vermont’s legal system and secure fair compensation.
• File a Police Report: Ensure that the accident is reported to law enforcement, as this official record can serve as evidence in a claim.
• Avoid Discussing the Case: Victims should avoid discussing the accident with insurance adjusters or on social media to prevent statements that could be used against them in their claim.

Available Resources for Burn Injury Victims in Vermont

Burn injury victims in Vermont may benefit from several state and national resources:

• American Burn Association: Offers support groups, educational materials, and advocacy for burn survivors.
• Vermont Center for Independent Living: Provides resources and support for individuals with disabilities, including those suffering from severe burns.
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): Offers information on pain management techniques and treatments for burn survivors.
• Legal Aid Vermont: Provides low-cost or free legal services to those who qualify, potentially helping burn victims with their claims.

Conclusion

Burn injuries resulting from car accidents in Vermont can be life-altering, affecting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. Understanding the causes, types, and impacts of these injuries is essential for anyone involved in such incidents. Pursuing compensation through legal avenues can help cover medical expenses and provide the support needed for a path to recovery. 

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t go at it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence. 

Contact us now for a free legal review.