Burn injuries can be a devastating and life-altering experience. Whether it's a minor burn or a severe one, it's essential to understand the risks, the causes, and the actions to take when dealing with burn injuries and when to work with a burn injury attorney. Here are five things you need to know about burn injuries.
 

Understanding Burn Injuries: What You Need to Know

1. Types of Burns

There are three types of burns - first-degree burns, second-degree burns, and third-degree burns. First-degree burns affect the top layer of skin, causing redness and pain. Second-degree burns affect the top two layers of skin, causing blisters and severe pain. Third-degree burns are the most severe and can impact all layers of the skin, causing white or blackened skin and nerve damage.

2. Causes of Burns

Burn injuries can happen in various ways, including fire and explosions, electrical malfunctions, chemicals, and hot liquids or steam. Burns can also result from overexposure to the sun, resulting in sunburn.

3. Immediate First Aid

When someone gets burned, the first thing to do is to remove the heat source. The next step is to cool the affected area with running water or a wet compress for at least 20 minutes. After that, cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage to prevent infection.

4. Long-Term Effects

Burn injuries can cause long-term effects such as scarring, disfigurement, and nerve damage. These injuries can also lead to emotional and mental trauma, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

5. Legal Rights

If someone else's negligence caused the burn injury, victims have legal rights. A burn injury attorney can help the victim pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

If you or someone you know has suffered a burn and need to work with a burn injury attorney, contact Salley Law Firm, P.A. in Lexington, SC, and the surrounding areas. Their team can help you understand your legal rights and get the compensation you deserve. Call them at (803) 356-5000 or visit their website to schedule a free consultation today.