Severe burns can leave lasting physical and emotional scars. These injuries often result in permanent disfigurement, long-term medical treatment, and emotional trauma. Burns may happen in an instant, yet their consequences can affect every part of your life, from your ability to work and care for your family to your daily mobility and independence.
At Freeburn Law, our Pennsylvania burn injury lawyers help victims and families navigate the legal process, fight for compensation, and secure the care and financial support needed for recovery.
Call Freeburn Law at (717) 777-7777 or schedule a free consultation! With decades of experience across Central Pennsylvania, our firm understands the unique challenges burn victims face.
What Constitutes a Severe Burn?
A burn injury claim may arise when someone suffers harm due to another party’s negligence or unsafe conduct. These cases frequently involve unsafe property conditions, defective products, vehicle accidents, or workplace hazards.
Severe burns are often classified as catastrophic injuries due to their lasting physical, emotional, and financial impact. Victims typically require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
Causes of Catastrophic Burns
Severe burns can occur in many settings. Common causes include:
- Car accidents and explosions: Fires, fuel leaks, and high-impact collisions can cause thermal or chemical burns.
- Chemical burns in the workplace: Industrial chemicals or cleaning agents can result in serious skin and respiratory injuries.
- House fires and unsafe properties: Faulty wiring, poor fire safety measures, or negligent landlords can lead to catastrophic burns.
Understanding how a burn occurred is crucial to building a strong case. Our attorneys investigate every accident thoroughly to determine liability and hold all responsible parties accountable.
How Long Do I Have to File a Burn Injury Claim in Pennsylvania?
Under Pennsylvania law, injured individuals generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can permanently bar your right to recover compensation.
Types of Burns and Their Legal Implications
Burns vary in type and severity. They are typically classified as:
- First-degree burns: Affect the outer layer of skin, causing redness and pain.
- Second-degree burns: Extend deeper into the skin, causing blisters and significant pain.
- Third-degree burns: Damage all layers of skin, often requiring surgery or grafting.
- Fourth-degree burns: Penetrate muscles, tendons, and bone, sometimes leading to permanent disability.
Burns may also cause scarring, nerve damage, and long-term mobility challenges. Our personal injury lawyers work closely with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries and their long-term impact.
Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns can be extremely painful and often lead to scarring or infection. Victims may need specialized wound care and rehabilitation. If caused by negligence, you may be entitled to recover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are among the most serious, often requiring skin grafts, surgeries, or amputation. These injuries may result in lifelong physical limitations or disfigurement, significantly increasing the potential value of your claim.
Can I File a Claim if the Burn Was Caused by a Workplace Accident?
Yes. If your burn injury resulted from negligence, such as unsafe working conditions or defective equipment, you may pursue both a personal injury claim and a workers’ compensation claim. In some situations, third parties (like contractors or product manufacturers) may also share liability.
Permanent Scarring and Disfigurement
Severe burns often cause permanent or life-altering damage. Common outcomes include:
- Third-degree burns and required skin grafts
- Nerve damage and chronic pain
- Permanent scarring or visible disfigurement
- Injuries affecting the face, hands, or other functional areas
Under Pennsylvania law, victims can recover compensation not only for medical costs but also for scarring, disfigurement, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
Legal Guidance for Burn Victims in Pennsylvania
Burn injury claims are complex and often disputed by insurance companies. Having an experienced Pennsylvania burn injury lawyer on your side ensures your rights are protected and your case is fully valued.
How Do Third-Degree Burns Affect Long-Term Legal Claims?
Because third-degree burns typically require multiple procedures and long-term care, your attorney must account for future medical needs, lost income, and life care costs when pursuing compensation.
Life-Altering Injuries Require Long-Term Care
Recovering from a burn isn’t just about healing. It often involves physical, emotional, and financial adjustments that last for years.
Many victims face:
- Lengthy hospital stays and multiple surgeries
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Ongoing pain management
- Psychological counseling and support
- Home modifications or adaptive equipment
Rehabilitation and Ongoing Medical Needs
Our legal team partners with medical experts and life care planners to ensure your claim covers all necessary treatments, both now and in the future.
Emotional and Financial Support for Victims
Severe burns can affect relationships, independence, and emotional well-being. We help ensure compensation reflects these personal losses.
Planning for Future Expenses
Your legal recovery should account for long-term medical bills, assistive devices, and income changes. We fight to make sure your future is financially secure.
How We Help Victims Navigate the Legal Process
At Freeburn Law, we handle every aspect of your burn injury case so you can focus on healing. Our personal injury attorneys can:
- Investigate your accident and gather critical evidence
- Consult with industry experts and medical professionals
- Negotiate aggressively with insurers
- Take your case to trial if necessary
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win. If you can’t come to us, we’ll meet you at your home or the hospital.
What Types of Compensation Can I Recover for a Severe Burn?
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical care, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Home modifications or mobility equipment
Our attorneys ensure your case fully reflects not only the immediate costs but also the long-term effects of your burn injuries.
Contact a Burn Injury Lawyer Serving Pennsylvania Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a severe burn injury, call Freeburn Law at
(717) 777-7777 or schedule a free consultation. Our experienced team is ready to evaluate your case, answer your questions, and help you fight for the compensation and support you deserve.
