Car accidents, especially severe ones, can cause various types of injuries, including burn injuries. Burn injuries can be very painful and can result from fire, chemical exposure, electrical hazards, or friction during a collision. Such injuries require immediate medical care and long-term treatment and greatly impact an individual’s life.
If you were injured in a car accident and have acquired severe burn injuries, you must know your rights. Victims of car accidents can legally recover compensation for their injuries from the liable party. However, to do that, they must have the right evidence and documentation. For burn injuries, the evidence may include photos and medical records.
Victims often have to handle a lot during the aftermath of an accident, such as insurance claims, potential lawsuits, etc. To ease your burden, talk to an attorney from Sullivan & Galleshaw today.
Immediate steps to take after a burn injury in a car accident
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Seek immediate medical attention.
If you get involved in a car accident, it is important to get medical help immediately. Burns can severely damage your skin and the tissues underneath it. These injuries are not immediately apparent and may take some time to show up.
Therefore, make sure to visit a doctor for immediate medical care. Getting timely treatment can also impact your recovery process. Medical professionals will determine the severity of the burn injury, classify it accordingly, and provide appropriate care.
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Document the accident and injury.
After getting medical care, document the accident and injury. Collecting evidence from the accident scene can strengthen your case. Take photos and videos of the scene of the accident, damage to your vehicle, and your injuries. Make sure you take pictures from multiple angles for extra details.
It is also important to keep records of all medical treatments and prescriptions. These documents can be helpful for your insurance claims. Also, try to get statements from witnesses and their contact information. They can also be helpful for your case.
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Report the accident.
Lastly, it is important to report the accident. Call the police and report the accident immediately. The police officers will create an official report that includes all the details of the accident, including the time, location, damage to the vehicle, etc. This evidence can be helpful for your insurance claim process.
Who is liable for burn injuries in car accidents?
Determining fault in a car accident
The fault in a car accident is generally established by determining which party acted negligently. Driver negligence includes behaviors such as distracted driving, over-speeding, or driving under the influence, all of which can lead to accidents resulting in burns.
Moreover, mechanical failures, such as defective brakes or tire blowouts, can also cause accidents and make the vehicle owner or mechanic responsible for the accident.
Third-party liability
There is also a possibility of a third-party liability. If the accident is caused by poor road maintenance, the road maintenance company can be held liable. However, if the vehicle parts are found to be defective, like faulty brakes, the vehicle manufacturer can also be held liable.
Comparative negligence laws
Having a good knowledge of comparative negligence laws is also important in burn injury claims. In many states, the law considers the fault of both parties and awards damages accordingly. Pure comparative negligence allows you to recover damages even if you are mostly at fault.
However, modified comparative negligence allows you to recover damages only if you are less than 50% responsible. Knowing what laws apply to your specific case will maximize your chances of getting good compensation.
Don’t deal with burn injuries alone!
Burn injuries can take a physical and emotional toll on your body. With the help of an attorney, you will be able to recover the money you need to get the best medical support. Hire an attorney today!
