Burn Injuries
Las Vegas Burn Injury Attorney
Representing Severely Injured Victims Throughout Nevada
A burn injury is any damage to the skin caused by electricity, heat, chemicals, or radiation. Annually, approximately two million people suffer burn injuries, 6,000 of which result in death. Burn injuries are the third largest cause of accidental death in the United States. Fortunately, continuing advances in medical technology allow people to live even with 90 percent of their bodies damaged by burn injuries.
If you or someone you love suffered severe burns due to another person’s or party’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries and other damages. Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen can help you seek the fair recovery you are owed. Our Las Vegas burn injury lawyers are ready to put their extensive experience and track record on your side. You don’t owe any attorneys’ fees if we don’t win your case.
Common Types of Burn Injuries
- Thermal Burns: A thermal burn can occur when someone accidentally touches a hot stove or is exposed to an open flame, such as a fire or a candle. Another common scenario is when hot liquids, like boiling water or coffee, are spilled on the skin, causing a scald injury. These incidents result in immediate pain, redness, and, in more severe cases, blistering or charring skin.
- Chemical Burns: Chemical burns can happen when a person comes into contact with harsh substances like industrial cleaners or strong acids. For instance, spilling bleach on the skin or accidentally splashing sulfuric acid can cause severe irritation and tissue damage. The burn may continue to worsen until the chemical is thoroughly washed away.
- Electrical Burns: Electrical burns may occur if someone touches live electrical wires or is struck by lightning. These injuries often leave entry and exit wounds and can cause severe internal damage that might not be immediately visible. Even a minor electrical shock from a faulty appliance can result in significant tissue damage beneath the skin.
- Radiation Burns: Radiation burns are common after prolonged exposure to the sun, leading to sunburn, which causes redness and pain. Tanning beds can also cause similar burns if used improperly. Additionally, radiation therapy for cancer patients can result in burns on the skin, with symptoms varying from mild redness to severe blistering.
- Friction Burns: Friction burns occur when the skin is rubbed vigorously against a rough surface, generating heat and causing damage. A typical example is road rash, which can happen if a motorcyclist skids across the pavement during an accident. Carpet burns are another common friction injury, often resulting from sliding across a carpeted floor.
Degrees of Burn Injuries
Medical professionals categorize burn injury severity into three degrees:
- First-Degree Burns: A first-degree burn is considered the least serious burn injury. It causes damage to the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, resulting in pain, redness, and swelling.
- Second-Degree Burns: A second-degree burn injury damages the first and second layers of the skin, causing pain, redness, sensitivity, blistering, and a white and dry appearance. Scarring may appear, and skin grafting may be needed.
- Third-Degree Burns: Third-degree burn injuries are the most severe type of burn. All skin and underlying tissue levels are affected by this injury. Skin may appear to be blackish-brown and leathery. Ironically, third-degree burn injuries may be the least painful because of the extensive nerve damage caused by the burn. If you have experienced a third-degree burn, surgical grafting or a transplant will be necessary.
Burn Injuries Lead to Serious, Lasting Harm
Suffering a burn injury can be a tremendously painful, stressful, and emotional experience. Many experts argue that burn injuries are the most painful type of catastrophic injury a person can endure. While advanced treatment and rehabilitation options are available, burn injuries bear a lengthy recovery time and hefty medical expenses.
Burn injuries often lead to long-term physical and psychological consequences. Scarring and disfigurement may require plastic or reconstructive surgery, and the emotional trauma associated with burns could necessitate ongoing psychological support or therapy. Issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are not uncommon among burn victims. Our attorneys understand the broader implications of burn injuries and are committed to securing comprehensive compensation that accounts for all facets of our clients’ recovery journeys.
If you believe that another party may be partially or fully responsible for your burn injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses, medical bills, emotional distress, and more. Burn injuries may be the result of a work-related accident, a construction accident, a defective product, or unsafe premises. Victims can seek compensation from the at-fault person or party in any of these instances.
Understanding the legal process can be daunting when pursuing compensation for a burn injury. Our team is dedicated to walking you through each step, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to potentially representing you in court. We strive to alleviate the burden so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life after a traumatic injury.
Las Vegas Burn Centers & Resources
Las Vegas is home to several specialized medical facilities adept at handling severe burn injuries. The community benefits from the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada, which provides exceptional care in its certified burn center. This facility is staffed with highly trained medical professionals capable of delivering state-of-the-art treatment for burn injuries, including the most critical cases.
In addition to top-tier medical support, Las Vegas offers access to numerous support groups and counseling services aimed at helping burn survivors and their families cope with the psychological and emotional challenges post-injury. These resources are invaluable for fostering community and providing ongoing emotional support during recovery. Engaging with these services early can help mitigate long-term psychological impacts, assisting victims in regaining confidence and improving their quality of life.
Legal Support for Burn Injury Victims
Recovering from a burn injury involves not just physical healing but also navigating a complex legal landscape. In Nevada, victims have rights under personal injury law to seek compensation for damages due to negligence. Proving liability requires a thorough investigation, often requiring an in-depth understanding of accident reconstruction, evidence collection, and expert testimony.
Our team at Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen provides comprehensive legal support, guiding clients through the intricacies of Nevada’s legal proceedings. Our client-focused approach means you receive constant updates and clear explanations of your legal options, allowing you to make informed decisions. Trust us to handle the complexities of your case with dedication, ensuring every avenue for potential compensation is explored.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burn Injuries in Las Vegas
What Immediate Steps Should I Take Following a Burn Injury?
Following a burn injury, your primary concern should be ensuring your immediate safety and health. First, remove yourself from the source of the burn to prevent further injury. Once safely away, cool the burn with running water, ensuring it remains gentle. Avoid applying oils or ointments immediately, as these can trap heat in the skin.
Seeking a professional medical evaluation is imperative, especially if the burn appears severe, profound, or covers a significant body area. Medical professionals will assess the injury’s severity and recommend appropriate treatment, ranging from topical treatments and bandaging for minor burns to more intensive care for second- and third-degree burns.
How Do I Establish Liability in a Burn Injury Claim?
Establishing liability in a burn injury claim involves demonstrating that another party’s negligence or intentional actions caused your injuries. Documentation is crucial, so gather as much evidence as possible, including photographs of the scene, witness statements, and any reports from medical professionals or law enforcement.
Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney is beneficial, as they can guide you through the evidence collection process and build a robust case on your behalf. Our lawyers understand the elements required to establish liability and aim to secure the compensation you deserve by thoroughly investigating all aspects of your case.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Pursue for a Burn Injury?
In Nevada, burn injury victims can seek multiple forms of compensation to cover both tangible and intangible losses. Economic damages typically include medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation or long-term care costs. Non-economic damages, which can be more subjective, address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be pursued if the responsible party’s actions were reckless or egregious. These are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. An attorney can help evaluate your specific circumstances to determine the appropriate avenues for compensation.
How Can Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen Assist with My Burn Injury Claim?
At Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen, we provide a compassionate yet aggressive approach to handling burn injury claims. Our attorneys walk you through each stage of the legal process, from initial consultation to resolution, ensuring you understand your rights and options.
We pride ourselves on personalized service. We dedicate time to understanding your unique circumstances and tailoring our legal strategy accordingly. Our contingency fee basis means you face no upfront costs, reinforcing our commitment to your case without adding financial burdens during a challenging time. Let’s work together to pursue a fair recovery for your burn injuries.
If you need representation or compensation, don’t hesitate any longer. The law firm of Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen is here to help! We stand by our clients and will take every step necessary in representing you and your best interests. If you’re unable to leave home or the hospital, we’ll come directly to you.
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