Burns are classified according to severity, which is based on the amount of tissue damage. A third-degree burn involves the subcutaneous (under the skin) tissue and skin loss. Third degree burn can also involve muscle, tendon and ligament tissue.
Third-degree burns are characterized by charring and catastrophic damage to both skin and the subcutaneous tissue. In cases where subcutaneous tissue is completely burned, the burn victim can develop compartment syndrome, a life threatening situation.
A third-degree burns lawsuit generally seeks compensation for the following:
- Medical expenses, which are always substantial and can include extended hospital stays, multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term nursing care
- Cost of care
- Lost income, including an estimate of future income the burn victims will not be able to earn due to the burn injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Loss of quality of life
- Other damages
Compensation in a third-degree burn lawsuit will depend on the facts of the case, including the age, occupation, family life, social life and hobbies of the burn victim.
Complications of Third-Degree Burns
- Infection: Staph infections are the most common infections in burn cases. Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a bacterial infection that is highly resistant to some antibiotics. The risk for infection is elevated because of the disruption of the natural barrier the skin provides as well as generalized immune suppression.
- Tetanus. A Clostridium tetani bacteria infection causes tetanus, which is also referred to as lock jaw. Tetanus causes tightening of the muscles, bone fractions, abnormal heart rhythm and, in about 10-20% of cases, death.
- Compartment syndrome. Impaired blood supply can cause compartment syndrome, which can lead to nerve damage and nerve death.
- Acute Tubular Necrosis of the kidneys
- Shock
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Respiratory distress
- Psychological distress
- Emotional distress
Because the medical expenses are enormous, in cases where there is not an issue as to fault, we ask the responsible party to pay medical expenses while other issues are being litigated.
Free Compensation and No Up-Front Costs
For a free consultation with an attorney at our law firm, please call 1-888-377-8900 (toll free), email Attorney Fred Pritzker or submit our online form.
Our lawyers have a national reputation and have been interviewed by The Associated Press, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, CNN, CBS, FOX and others. Attorneys Fred Pritzker, Elliot Olsen and Eric Hageman were named Super Lawyers for the current year by Law & Politics magazine. Attorney Fred Pritzker is also listed in the current edition of The Best Lawyers in America.
