New York Burn Injury Lawyer
A burn is a type of injury that can cause permanent damage. A high degree of burn, such as third or fourth degree, can cause nerve damage, discolored skin, damage to tissues and bones, scarring, and disfigurement.
Burns can be caused by fires, car accidents, exposure to chemicals, electric shock, hot liquids, and steam. There is nothing funny about being burned. Getting burned is absolute torture for the victims. The pain is immense and the bodily effects are often permanent.
Achieving physical and financial recovery after a burn is not an easy process. Have you been affected? If so, see how the New York burn injury lawyers from Cohan Law Firm can assess your case and prepare you for the legal process.
Types of Burns
Burns are classified by their severity. Sometimes burns get worse over time, so it may be hard to accurately gauge their degree until after a few days. There are four degrees of burns:
- First-degree burns. Also known as superficial burns, first-degree burns affect only the epidermis, or the outer layer of skin. The burn site is red and painful, but there are no blisters. A mild sunburn is an example.
- Second-degree burns. Second-degree burns are also known as partial thickness burns. They involve the epidermis and part of the dermis, which is the lower layer of skin. Symptoms include redness, blisters, swelling, and pain.
- Third-degree burns. Third-degree burns, or full thickness burns, destroy the epidermis and dermis. They may also affect the innermost layer of skin, causing the burn to look black, white, or charred.
- Fourth-degree burns. Fourth-degree burns are the most serious burns. They go through both layers of the skin, the underlying tissue, and the deeper tissue. Muscle and bone may also be affected. The nerve endings are destroyed, resulting in a loss of sensation.
Burn Treatment
Sunburn and small scalds can often be treated at home with cool water, aloe vera, and an antibiotic like Neosporin. Second-degree burns can also be treated at home with cool water and prescription creams. The burn should stay covered for the first few days. Avoid popping any blisters. If they do pop, bandage them to prevent infection.
Deep or widespread burns need immediate medical care, often at specialized burn units. For a third- or fourth-degree burn, you can expect the following:
- Cleaning and removing dead skin and tissue from the burned area
- Intravenous (IV) fluids containing electrolytes
- Antibiotics by IV or mouth
- Antibiotic ointments or creams
- Pain medications
- Nutritional supplements
- Skin grafting to close off the wounded area
- Cosmetic reconstruction
Contact Cohan Law Firm Today
Burns are often fatal injuries. Those who survive often experience lifelong effects.
Burns require special treatment that can be costly. If someone else caused your burn, make sure you are fully compensated. The New York burns lawyers from Cohan Law Firm will help you through the process. To schedule a free consultation, fill out the online form or call (855) 855-0321.
