Extensive burns can require lengthy hospitalizations, multiple surgeries, lead to permanent scarring, and cause impaired function of the affected body part. Even minor burns are extremely painful and can cause scarring. Additionally, the psychological toll of suffering a severe burn can be devastating and require significant treatment to overcome.
If you or a loved one has been burned in an accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you might be able to claim monetary damages from the negligent party with help from experienced Philadelphia Burn Injury Lawyers.
Consulting a knowledgeable Philadelphia burn injury lawyer soon after the accident could put you in a better position for a successful claim.
Potential Defendants in Burn Cases
According to the National Institutes of Health, most burn injuries occur in accidents in the home. If a house fire is a result of a defective product, a burn victim may have a cause of action against the manufacturer of the product. The installer also may be liable, in the case of a malfunctioning furnace or other permanent fixture. Tenants might have a claim against the landlord or other tenants if their negligence contributed to the fire and the resulting injuries.
Vehicle accidents can lead to explosions that cause devastating burns. An injured claimant might seek damages from other involved drivers or from the manufacturers of the vehicle and any defective parts. A diligent local attorney could investigate all the circumstances surrounding a severe burn injury to identify whose negligence may have contributed to the accident.
It should be noted that burn injuries do not just affect the skin. A person can suffer burns in their respiratory system and digestive system if they inhale or ingest toxic chemicals. Eyes can suffer burns as well, and this may lead to permanent blindness. In such cases, the defendants might include the manufacturer of the substance that caused the burn, the person or company using or storing the harmful material, and government agencies responsible for regulating the use of such materials.
Time Limit to File a Civil Claim in Philadelphia
Injured people have a limited time to pursue a claim for damages against a negligent party. The law allows accident victims only two years to bring a lawsuit seeking damages and even less time if they are filing the claim against a government entity. According to 42 Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Annotated §5522, an injured party must file a notice of claim within six months of an accident if they plan to sue the state or a municipality.
In the case of survivors of serious burns, this short time frame often means they may have to decide whether to seek damages before they have completely recovered from their injuries. A consultation with Philadelphia Burn Injury Lawyers soon after an accident could help a burned claimant calculate their current and future losses in their damages claim.
Seek Guidance from Burn Injury Lawyers in Philadelphia
Catastrophic burns can require substantial medical treatment and still leave a person with permanent scarring, disfigurement, and disability. Getting appropriate compensation from the at-fault party could help you cover these losses and more.
Do not hesitate to take legal action. Contact our Philadelphia Burn Injury Lawyers today to schedule a complimentary case review.
