Riverside Burn Injury Lawyer

Award-Winning Injury Representation in the Inland Empire

Injuries caused by burns are often very severe and can even be life-threatening. Many of these injuries are caused by negligence or carelessness on the part of a third party—for example, if the burn injury occurred in a car accident or workplace accident. Recovering may require long-term rehabilitation and medical care. Many burn injuries are so severe that the victim never fully recovers.

What is a Burn Injury?

A burn injury is damage to the skin or other tissues caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction. Burns can cause pain, swelling, blistering, and scarring, and in severe cases, can lead to significant complications or even be life-threatening.

Common types of burn injuries include:

• Thermal Burns: Thermal burns occur due to contact with high temperatures, such as flames, hot liquids, or hot objects. Flame burns are caused by direct exposure to fire, while scald burns result from hot liquids or steam. Contact burns happen when the skin touches a hot surface, like metal or glass. These burns can vary in severity from minor to severe, depending on the temperature and duration of contact.
• Chemical Burns: Chemical burns are caused by exposure to corrosive substances, such as acids or alkalis. Common sources include household cleaners, industrial chemicals, and certain cosmetic products. These burns can damage both the skin and deeper tissues, depending on the chemical's strength and duration of contact. Immediate flushing with water and medical attention are crucial to minimize tissue damage.
• Electrical Burns: Electrical burns result from contact with electrical currents, which can cause both external and internal injuries. The severity of these burns often extends beyond what is visible on the skin's surface. Electrical burns can affect the heart, muscles, and other organs, potentially leading to serious complications. Prompt medical evaluation is essential, even if the external injury appears minor.
• Radiation Burns: Radiation burns occur from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, such as sunburn, or other radiation sources like X-rays or radiation therapy. These burns can damage the skin and underlying tissues. Symptoms include redness, blistering, and peeling of the skin. Preventive measures, such as using sunscreen and protective clothing, are important to avoid these burns.
• Friction Burns: Friction burns are caused by the skin rubbing against a rough surface, leading to heat and abrasions. Common examples include road rash from motorcycle or bicycle accidents. These burns can cause redness, swelling, and open wounds. Cleaning the affected area and applying proper dressings are crucial for preventing infection and promoting healing.

What Should I Do After a Burn Injury?

If you believe that your injury was caused or contributed to by a third party’s negligence or recklessness, the proper course of action after obtaining the medical care necessary is to speak with an Inland Empire burn injury lawyer who can advise you as to your rights. Our team at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP works on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no fees charged unless you win.

Compensation After a Burn Injury

You could be entitled to various forms of compensation and, potentially, punitive damages, depending on the various factors and particulars surrounding your case. An attorney can help you understand these options.

Some types of compensation you might be entitled to include:

• Medical expenses, past and projected
• Costs for rehabilitation and therapy
• Out of pocket expenses related to your injury
• Missed time at work
• Loss of ability to earn income
• Scarring / disfigurement
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional damage

Consult a Burn Injury Lawyer in the Inland Empire

Trusting our team during this time is a good feeling. We know how to stand up for your rights and we are ready to win. You shouldn’t wait: The sooner you act, the better your chance of a good outcome. Our firm helps accidents victims throughout the Inland Empire, including Riverside and San Bernardino.