Burn Injury FAQs

1. What is a burn injury?

‍The most common type of burn injury is a thermal burn, resulting from exposure to fire, scalding water, or hot objects (including the sun). Chemical burn injuries are another type of burn injury.

‍2. Are there different degrees of burn injuries?

‍One way to classify a burn injury is by depth of injury. This is useful when giving a prognosis for recovery and for making clinical decisions. There are three "degrees" that define burns:

• A first-degree burn is a superficial burn. It includes only the top layer of the skin.
• A second-degree burn includes all of the epidermis (skin) and a varying depth of the dermis.
• A third-degree burn, or full-thickness burn, includes the epidermis, the entire dermis, skin appendages, and at times deeper tissue. Such a burn, even when it includes a small surface area, usually requires hospitalization.

‍3. What happens during a burn injury?

Burn injuries include damage to muscle, nerve tissue, and bones as well as the skin. Burn injuries are frequently accompanied by other traumatic injuries, such as fractures or other complications due to smoke inhalation or surgery.

‍4. How long does it take to recover from a burn injury?

‍Recovery times vary with location and type of burn injury, but scar tissue does not mature for at least a year and can sometimes require surgery. Recovery from a burn injury requires skilled and highly specialized care. Open wounds must be meticulously cared for to prevent infection and to encourage wound healing as quickly as possible. Treatment may include respiratory treatment, speech therapy, swallowing therapy, and closely monitored nutrient and fluid intake.

‍5. What are the most common causes of burn injuries?

Residential fires are the leading cause of burn related deaths and injuries and many are the result of negligence. The most common causes of serious burn injuries include:

• Household Fires
• Scalding/ Hot Water
• Car Accidents
• Electrical Accidents
• Industrial Accidents
• Gas Explosions

‍6. Should I contact a lawyer if I suffer from a burn injury?

Yes. You should contact an experienced burn injury attorney at The Oshman Firm anytime you have been the victim of a personal injury. If your burn injury is the result of the negligence of another person, you may have a valid claim against that person for the cost of your injuries. The Oshman Firm can assist you with your personal injury claim, including those resulting in burn injuries.