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Burns & Severe Burn Injury Claims
Burn Injury Claims & Burn injury at Work Compensation
Have you or a loved one suffered serious burns from an accident that was not your fault?
The physical pain caused by severe burns is horrendous to imagine. Even the most minor burn can be painful and cause much discomfort for a long time after. It is not only the physical pain that impacts the victim however, in the case of severe burns. The emotional scars caused by the actual trauma suffered and the changes to the victim’s physical appearance can be life-changing and severely life-limiting. Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder is also very common amongst victims of severe burns and this itself requires specialist aftercare.
If you, or someone you love has suffered in this way, then firstly we are sorry that this has happened. We have expertly trained lawyers who are experienced in handling cases like yours and they understand the devastating impact severe burns can have on the victim and their family. In dealing with Sheldon Davidson you can be confident that you will be treated with compassion, warmth and sensitivity first and foremost. The first step on what can seem like a complex and lengthy journey is to have an initial consultation with one of our specialist lawyers. They will listen and advise whether there is a case to be answered and whether there is a high chance of success. If, after this initial conversation, you choose Sheldon Davidson to represent you, we will do our utmost to make the process as smooth and pain free as possible and ultimately we will make it our business to ensure you receive the financial settlement you deserve.
The severity of burn injuries
First Degree Burns: these are the most common types of burn, suffered by coming into contact with a hot surface, boiling water or steam, or overexposure to sunshine without proper sun protection. These types of burn, whilst painful, can be treated at home, by running the affected area under cool running water, or by using over the counter remedies for minor burns.
Second Degree Burns: these are more serious as they affect both the epidermis and dermis or the outer and second layers of skin and they, therefore, pose a higher risk of infection. The burn sight becomes bright red and produces blisters and swelling. Hospital treatment and potentially an extended stay in hospital with specialist treatment is likely to be necessary for second degree burns.
Third Degree Burns: these are full thickness burns, where the epidermis and the dermis are destroyed. Severity depends on how much of the body surface area affected. Victims of third degree burns are at risk of other complications such as shock, dehydration, and infection and specialist hospital treatment is undoubtedly required. In extreme cases, internal organs, tendons, nerves, and ligaments can be damaged which can lead to further physical problems for the victim.
Common causes of severe burns
Fireworks injuries: in 2018 4,436 people attended A&E as a result of fireworks injuries. Half of those were 18 or under and 80% were male.
- Gas explosions
- Chemical burns from corrosive substances
- Chemical acid attack
- Car fire
- Fires in the home
- Burns when cooking (at home and in professional kitchens)
- Burns from patio heaters
- Boiling water spillage
The above list is not exhaustive, as there are many ways a person can become severely burned. It is also important to note that many severe burns accidents occur in the workplace. Under the Health & Safety Act 1974 your employer has a duty of care to protect the health, safety, and wellbeing of all employees. If your accident occurred at work, then there should be a full and proper investigation and if found negligent, then your employer is undoubtedly liable, and you are entitled to claim financial compensation. One of our expert lawyers can help you throughout this process and will ultimately ensure you receive the highest possible financial settlement for the injuries you have suffered.
If you or your loved one has been severely burned in a way not listed above please don’t be put off making that call to one of our team. We will listen to your unique story and quickly advise whether there is third party liability and the chances of securing financial compensation for you and your family.
Compensation for burn injuries
Our specialist burns lawyers are highly versed in building solid cases and we have a proven track record in securing financial compensation for burns victims. Experience shows us that victims of severe burns can attract very high settlement awards. There are a number of factors which can influence the final outcome and they include:
- The type of burns suffered i.e. first, second, or third degree
- The amount of body surface area covered by the burns
- Any requirements for surgery and/or restorative surgery
- Any resulting physical disabilities, for example, in extreme cases severe burns can lead to amputation
- The psychological impact on the victim. Many victims of severe burns suffer from Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder for example and appropriate aftercare is required
Our approach to burn injury claims and our clients
Due to our expertise, knowledge and long-standing relationships across the Greater Manchester region, there is no better legal firm to have in your corner when seeking financial compensation for injuries that can be attributed to someone else’s carelessness.
Our approach is first and foremost to put ourselves in the shoes of the victim and to conduct proceedings with compassion and sensitivity. Thereafter we are passionate about the law and seeing justice done and you can rest assured that, with one of our lawyers on your side, your case has the highest possible chance of success. Finally, we only take on cases we believe we can win and therefore if you decide to choose Sheldon Davidson to represent you, we will do so on a no win no fee basis. In other words, this means that if we fail to secure you a financial settlement, there will be no legal fees to pay. All things considered, you have nothing to lose by having that initial conversation, so call us today and trust us to take it from there.
