Decatur Burn Injury Lawyers
Burns occur when skin and tissue is damaged due to extreme heat or exposure to chemicals. They can be caused by fires, car accidents, workplace accidents, electrical issues, and cooking accidents. Burns can be minor in nature and heal on their own or they can be life-threatening, requiring extensive treatment. In some cases, they can even be deadly.
A burn can cause a variety of damages, depending on its severity. A burn could require major treatment. If you or a loved one has been severely injured by burns, the Decatur burn injury lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell can help. We’ll assess your case and file a claim for compensation.
Causes of Burns
A person can suffer burns in a variety of ways, including the following:
- Fire
- Hot steam or liquid
- Hot objects, such as glass or metal
- Gasoline and other chemicals
- Electrical currents
- Radiation
- Sunlight
- Abuse
Degrees of Burns
Burns are categorized by the following degrees:
- First-degree. The least serious type of burn, first-degree burns affect just the outer layer of skin. The skin may be red and painful, like a sunburn.
- Second-degree. In this type of burn, the outer layer and the layer underneath are both damaged. You may experience redness, swelling, and blisters. The skin may be painful to the touch.
- Third-degree. A third-degree burn destroys two layers of skin. You’ll suffer nerve damage and the skin may turn various colors, such as black, white, yellow, or brown.
- Fourth-degree. This is the most severe type of burn. It is very deep, destroying all layers of skin, as well as muscles, tendons, and even bones.
It is important to know that the severity of your burn can change over time. Without prompt medical treatment, the damage can spread and become worse.
Complications
A burn can result in medical complications, including the following:
- Significant scarring
- Infections
- Leathery skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Bone and joint problems
- Fluid loss
- Low body temperature
- Severe emotional distress
Emotional Effects of Burns
Burns can cause a lot of long-term effects, particularly ones that are psychological in nature. Burns cause scarring, which can affect someone physically and emotionally. A person may find themselves less attractive, which can damage their self-esteem. This can lead to anxiety and depression. Even after several years, acute stress disorders are common in burn victims.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also a common issue after suffering a burn injury. A victim may experience a variety of symptoms such as:
- Irritability
- Hostility
- Isolation
- Nightmares
- Insomnia
- Flashbacks
- Fear
- Anxiety
- Depression
Contact Our Decatur Burn Injury Lawyer Today
Burns can be disfiguring, causing scars and self-esteem issues. A person who is seriously burned can be affected for the rest of their life by complications.
Let the Decatur personal injury lawyers at Shiver Hamilton Campbell assist you with a claim for compensation. If your burn injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, we can help. Schedule a free consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (877) 215-6111.