California Burn Injury Attorney

Burn injuries can be life-altering, causing intense pain, permanent scarring, and significant emotional distress. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our dedicated California burn injury attorneys are here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. With over 20 years of experience, our legal team understands the struggles accident victims go through and are committed to fight for their rights.

Backed by a proven record of recovering over $1.7 billion for our clients, we’re equipped to hold negligent parties accountable and secure a fair settlement on your behalf. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your case, our 24/7 legal team is available to discuss them in detail. No matter what kind of injustice you have suffered, we will be there every step of the way.

Contact our 24/7 legal team today at (213) 927-3700 or fill out our quick contact form to schedule a free consultation.

Why Should I Hire WCTL for My Burn Injury Case?

For California burn injury victims, choosing the right law firm can determine whether you move forward with financial security or remain burdened by mounting medical costs. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our accomplished, California-based attorneys—including Harvard graduates and nationally recognized legal analysts—personally guide you through every step of your case. 

California Burn Injury Statistics

According to 2019 data collected by the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS), 5.0 injuries and 1.7 deaths per 1,000 fires occurred in California. 17.6 injuries and 4.3 deaths per 1,000 fires took place in residential building structures. Based on the data collected, 51.2 percent of fire casualties occurred in residential and non-residential structures, 48 percent were in residential structures only, 44.6 percent were in vehicles, and 2.4 percent were outside. Lastly, in 2021, a total of 125 fire fatalities occurred in homes.

According to 2017 to 2019 data collected by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an average of 34,200 heating fires took place in residential buildings in the United States. It is estimated that a total of 600 injuries and 165 deaths occurred from these fires. Cooking was the leading cause of residential fires, while heating was placed second. Most of these fires took place from 5pm to 9pm, with a high peak occurring from 6pm to 8pm.

Understanding Burn Injuries

Burn injuries are a type of trauma that can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissues. While every burn injury is different, the consequences of burn injuries can be severe because complications such as infection, scarring, disfigurement, and organ damage can not only drastically affect a person’s life, but also can be fatal if not treated. However, the severity of burn injuries is often classified into four degrees, each with distinct characteristics and treatment requirements.

First Degree

According to medical classifications, first-degree burns represent the least severe category of burns, characterized by superficial damage limited to the outermost layer of the skin. These burns are typically red, painful, and may blister. First-degree burns can often be treated at home with basic first aid and usually heal within a few days.

Second Degree

Second-degree burns, or partial-thickness burns, penetrate both the outer and inner layers of the skin. They can cause blisters, redness, and significant pain. Medical attention is often necessary for second-degree burns, and the healing process can take several weeks.

Third Degree 

Third-degree burns, also referred to as full-thickness burns, extend through all layers of the skin and underlying tissues. These burns can result in charring, eschar formation, and numbness due to nerve damage. Immediate medical intervention is crucial, and recovery can take several months, often requiring surgical procedures.

Fourth Degree

Fourth-degree burns are the most severe, extending through all layers of skin and underlying tissues, potentially affecting bones and organs. These burns are life-threatening and demand urgent medical care.

Types of Burn Injuries

While fire injuries are the more obvious source of burn injuries, there are many other types of burn injuries that can be sustained and they are categorized as either Thermal, Electrical, Chemical, or Electrical. This is designed to help determine the cause and source of the burn and allow medical professionals to determine the best course of treatment. 

Radiation Burns

Radiation burns are injuries resulting from exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet rays or other forms of radiation, such as X-rays and microwaves, are radiation burns.There are four major radiation types that cause damage due to prolonged exposure:

1. Alpha
2. Beta
3. Ultraviolet 
4. Electromagnetic waves such as gamma rays

Radiation burns may typically appear in days or weeks after exposure, whereas thermal burns appear instantly or shortly after exposure to the heat source. While this type of burn is largely circumstantial, if it is left untreated the radiation can damage the skin, the underlying tissue, and even the cells causing long-term complications such as tissue necrosis and cancer.

Thermal Burns

Thermal burns occur when external heat sources burn the skin and underlying tissues, leading to tissue cell death or charring. Heat sources such as hot metals, boiling liquids, steam, and flames are some of the most common types of burns found in a burn injury lawsuit. Due to the fact that thermal burns can come from a variety of different sources, it is essential that victims seek medical attention if they have suffered a severe burn injury.  

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns occur when a strong corrosive substance comes into contact with a person’s skin. To many people’s surprise, corrosive chemicals are not just accessible to industrial factories and manufacturing plants, but they can be found in a number of household products such as drain cleaners, paint thinners, and other household disinfectants.

Depending on how long and at what strength the substances were in contact with your body the severity of your injuries may vary. However, they can cause more internal damage due to the possible fumes these chemicals may produce. 

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns occur when a person comes in direct contact with an electric current source such as power lines, outlets, and electrical appliances. This type of burn is capable of damaging the skin and the deeper parts of the tissue and the nerves, but in some severe cases, a high-voltage electrical burn can potentially disrupt the function and pacing of vital organs such as the brain and heart. 

Electrical burns can also cause muscle contractions and/or serious nerve damage. While an electrical burn is going to be heavily dependent on the voltage, source, and the duration of contact, it can be difficult to identify these burns due to most damages being internal injuries.

Common Causes Of Burn Injuries In California

From 2014 to 2019 the state of California has had over 7,874 Fires and over 1,223,831 acres burned. California has spent well over $600,000,000 dollars in fire suppression costs alone and it doesn’t seem to be getting any better. Additionally, Southern and Northern California have combined property damages surpassing 7 billion dollars just from wildfires. Besides wildfires, there are many other ways burn injuries may come from. 

For instance, boiling liquids, steam, radiation, electrical currents, and household fires are some of the most common causes of burn injuries and can cause severe burns if not properly managed. In addition, chemical reactions involving hazardous substances, specifically with acids, can cause major burning of the skin and other body parts.

Whether it’s a car accident that led to your vehicle being set ablaze, a company not following safety protocols or a faulty product that was manufactured incorrectly, having an expert California burn injury lawyer is essential in recovering any damages you may have incurred from your injuries whether they be from medical bills, emotional suffering, or lost wages.

The Importance of Finding A Local Burn Injury Lawyer In California

When you have suffered a burn injury in an accident, hiring a local attorney can make all the difference in navigating your case effectively. As local lawyers understand the specific laws, regulations, and court systems in your area, they can give you an edge when it comes to building a strong case. In addition to their legal knowledge, local attorneys often have connections with local experts, investigators, and resources that can be crucial to your claim.

Here are some other benefits you can get of working with a local burn injury lawyer:

• In-depth knowledge of local laws: Each city in California has its own nuances when it comes to handling burn injury claims. 
• Familiarity with local courts and judges: A local attorney knows the preferences and tendencies of judges and other legal professionals in the area.
• Accessibility and personalized service: Meeting your attorney in person can provide peace of mind and foster clear communication throughout the process.

If you’re looking for an experienced local burn injury lawyer, we proudly serve clients in cities across California. Explore the links below to find help in your area:

• Los Angeles
• Irvine
• San Bernardino
• Long Beach
• San Francisco
• Newport Beach
• Woodland Hills
• Sacramento
• Beverly Hills
• Pasadena
• Solana Beach
• San Jose
• Bakersfield
• Riverside
• Fresno
• San Diego
• Santa Ana
• Valencia 
• Fullerton
• Visalia
• Glendora
• West Covina
• Palm Springs

Statute of Limitations to File a Burn Injury in California

Since a burn injury claim falls under personal injury, you will be given two years starting from the initial date of the incident to file a claim. If you exceed the deadline, you will no longer be qualified to pursue legal actions against the party at-fault for your burn injury. 

However, in California, there are a few exceptions that will grant you an extension. For instance, being a minor, out-of-state, incarcerated, legally insane, or legally incapacitated are all examples where the statute of limitation can be extended. 

Burn Injuries Caused by a Defective Product

If a company sells or produces a faulty product that causes a burn injury, including a chemical burn, it can be held liable for damages. According to California’s product liability law, those involved in the chain distribution, such as the product designers, manufacturers, or sellers, may be held accountable for any injuries and/or damages caused by the defective product. 

Strict liability is enforced when a defect is found during the design or manufacturing process. These burns could also occur in restaurants. It may also become effective if there were no warnings or proper instructions given to the buyer about the product’s defect or usage.

In order to pursue a product liability lawsuit, you will need to show proof of:

• Using the product in a reasonable manner
• The defendant designing, manufacturing, or selling a defective product
• The defect being the main cause of your burn injury
• The product already having a design, manufacturing, or warning defect when it left the defendant

California Burn Injury Medical Costs

The medical costs associated with burn injuries can easily add up. Clients will find themselves undergoing multiple surgeries and specialized procedures, like skin grafts or reconstructive surgeries. These procedures are not cheap and medical insurance companies may only cover a certain amount, leaving patients to pay for the extra costs and fees. 

Sadly, many of these injuries may have to be treated for a lifetime. Any ongoing rehabilitation programs and physical therapy treatments, makes an already expensive situation, even more costly. That’s why having a knowledgeable California burn injury attorney can really help you offset the cost of your damages. 

Damages Awarded to Burn Victims in California

Depending on the severity and scale of the burn injury, accident victims can be expected to receive economic and non-economic damages for any injuries they have sustained due to a party’s negligence or recklessness.

Economic damages are calculable costs designed to cover any unexpected costs that arise for a victim when they are hurt in an accident. Sudden costs such as physical therapy, future medical expenses, emergency surgery, and lost wages are all things that can be compensated for in an accident in order to make the victim financially whole again.

Meanwhile, non-economic damages are incalculable costs designed to compensate victims for any emotional pain they may have experienced in an accident. For example, incalculable costs such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life are all subjective and will vary from person to person. No matter what kind of injuries you have sustained, it if you suffered burns due to a person’s negligence and wish to obtain compensation, it is highly recommended to consult with a well-versed burn injury lawyer

West Coast Trial Lawyers is Here to Help

If you or someone you love is dealing with the aftermath of a serious burn injury, you don’t have to face it alone. Our California burn injury attorneys at West Coast Trial Lawyers are ready to fight for the compensation, justice, and peace of mind you deserve.

With over 20 years of experience, our dedicated team of attorneys have handled a variety of cases and will continue to do their duty to represent their client’s best interest. As a result of their dedication we have recovered over $1.7 billion in financial compensation and no matter what kind of case you have, our 24/7 legal team will be there every step of the way. 

Contact us today by calling (213) 927-3700 or filling out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let us stand by your side as you begin your journey toward healing and recovery

Frequently Asked Questions About Burn Injuries

Are Burns Considered a Traumatic Injury?

Burn injuries are by far one of the most painful and traumatic experiences that someone can go through. Not only can these injuries be life-altering for a burn victim, it can also affect their relationships with friends and family.

Can I Sue My Job for a Burn?

If your job was negligent in their duties to provide adequate protection or first aid for a burn injury then they can be held liable and you can file a claim and hire a burn injury attorney to recover compensation for your injuries.

How Much is A Burn Injury Claim Worth?

The total value of a burn injury claim will depend on several factors such as the severity and scale of the burn. For example, any personal injury cases with severe burn injuries can be potentially valued anywhere within the five to six figure range in order to cover necessary medical expenses. If you are unaware how much you can recover, you visit our personal injury settlement calculator and find out how much your claim is worth!

Can You Sue a Company for Chemical Burns?

Yes, if your company was negligent in their duties to provide care around chemical products and substances and you were injured as a result, then they can be held liable for their actions. While the value will depend on the nature of the incident and the scale of your personal injuries, they can be held accountable nonetheless.