What Are the Different Types of Burn Injury Accidents?

Because burns are a fairly common injury, they can leave you with more questions than answers. Can you file an injury claim? Do you have a case? Do you even have evidence? At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, we understand how disconcerting this uncertainty can feel. For over 50 years, we’ve been helping burn injury victims get the answers and the compensation they deserve, under all kinds of different circumstances. Let’s look at some common types of burn accidents to help you determine if you might have a valid claim.

Common Types of Burn Accidents and When They May Lead to Compensation

Workplace Burn Accidents

Factory fires, chemical spills, and electrical burns from machinery are unfortunately common in many work environments. When employers fail to provide proper safety equipment, adequate training, or violate OSHA regulations, workers can suffer devastating injuries.

While workers’ compensation typically covers workplace injuries, third-party liability may also exist. If faulty equipment from another manufacturer caused your burn, or if a contractor’s negligence led to unsafe conditions, you may have grounds for additional legal action beyond workers’ comp.

Residential Burns

Apartment fires, water heater malfunctions, and faulty electrical wiring can cause serious burns in residential settings. Landlords have an obligation to maintain safe living conditions, including properly functioning smoke detectors, safe electrical systems, and adherence to building codes.

When landlord negligence contributes to burn injuries, such as failing to repair known electrical hazards or ignoring safety violations, tenants may have valid premises liability claims.

Vehicle-Related Burn Accidents

Car fires following crashes, fuel tank explosions, or burns from defective airbags can result in severe injuries. These cases often involve multiple parties: negligent drivers, auto manufacturers with defective products, or mechanics who performed faulty repairs.

Vehicle burn injuries frequently become part of larger motor vehicle accident lawsuits, with the potential for significant compensation given the typically severe nature of these injuries.

Chemical Exposure Burns

Chemical burns can occur in workplaces, schools, or from dangerous consumer products. When chemicals lack proper warning labels, are stored unsafely, or are used in environments without adequate safety measures, serious injuries can result.

These cases may involve product liability claims against manufacturers or negligence claims against employers who failed to provide proper training and protective equipment.

Electrical Burn Accidents

Construction sites, downed power lines, and unsafe electrical equipment can cause devastating electrical burns. These complex cases often involve utility companies, employers, or property owners who didn’t maintain safe conditions.

Medical or Radiation Burns

Radiation therapy complications, malfunctioning surgical equipment, or errors during medical procedures can cause serious burns. When these injuries result from a healthcare provider’s failure to meet the standard of care, medical malpractice claims may be appropriate.

Friction Burns

Slip and fall accidents, treadmill malfunctions, or motorcycle crashes can cause severe friction burns. These injuries often occur alongside other trauma and may fall under product or premises liability or motor vehicle accident claims, depending on the circumstances.

Determining If You Have a Valid Case

Several key questions can help you assess whether your burn injury might warrant legal action:

• Was someone else responsible for creating the dangerous conditions that caused your burn?
• Was the product, space, or situation unreasonably dangerous without proper warnings?
• Were safety rules, building codes, or industry standards ignored?
• Did faulty equipment or inadequate maintenance contribute to your injury?

Even if you’re unsure about fault, consulting with an experienced burn injury attorney can help clarify your options and identify all potentially liable parties.

Explore Your Next Steps

Understanding how your burn injury occurred is the foundation for determining your legal options. Even when fault seems unclear, many burn accidents involve some form of negligence that may entitle you to compensation.

If you’ve suffered a serious burn injury and are uncertain whether legal action is appropriate, reach out to our team at Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott. Our experienced attorneys will review the details of your injury, investigate the circumstances surrounding it, and evaluate evidence to determine if you have a strong case. We’re here to help you find the best path forward.