Approximately 500,000 people are seriously injured from burns every year, according to the American Burn Association. Of that half million, 40,000 will have an extended hospital stay, and 4,000 will die. While it can occur at any age, the groups most likely to sustain catastrophic personal injuries from a burn were children under the age of five and adults over 65.
The most common causes of burn injuries in Virginia include:
- Building and household fires
- Defective products
- Chemical burns
- Car/Truck accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Defective vehicle accidents
- Industrial accidents
- Radiation burns
- Water heater fires
Burns may begin with the skin, but can quickly advance to the sweat glands and internal organs, requiring long-term medical care. Within moments of a severe burn, a victim’s heart is affected and the heat from the burn amplifies pain receptors in the body.
Recovery for burn victims can include, but is not limited to:
- Hospitalization
- Pain management
- Skin grafts
- Reconstruction
- Rehabilitation
- Numerous surgeries
When you include all of the above, the estimated expenses of a burn victim can easily be hundreds of thousands of dollars (not including lost wages, physical suffering, and psychological therapy).
To make matters worse, burn injuries are often accompanied by inhalation injuries. Approximately 50-80 percent of deaths caused by fires are due to smoke inhalation. When it does not lead to death, smoke inhalation can lead to permanent brain damage.
Severe burns that are caused by the negligence of another can permanently change a person’s life and outlook. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury in Virginia or DC, contact the catastrophic personal injury attorneys at Shevlin Smith. Our Fairfax lawyers have the experience and knowledge necessary to get the results you deserve. Call 703-721-4233 today or complete the contact form found on this page.