Burns are common injuries for Florida residents. Many members of the state’s population have suffered sunburns from being outside for too long without protection, and others have accidentally touched hot surfaces with pads or other barriers to insulate them from the heat. Minor burns should be assessed and properly treated, but individuals who suffer serious burns may require long-term medical help to survive.
Burns are categorized based on the severity. For example, a first degree burn is a burn that only affects the top layer of a person’s skin. These burns generally heal on their own without medical intervention. Second degree burns are more serious and penetrate into the dermis below the outer skin. These burns may blister, leave scars and be more painful than first degree burns.
Third degree burns damage two layers of skin and kill nerve endings. These burns are very serious and victims should seek medical attention. Beyond third degree burns are fourth degree burns, and these burns involve full skin penetration. Fourth degree burns can burn into a victim’s tendons, other connective tissues and even bones. A fourth degree burn may put a victim’s life in jeopardy.
Burn injuries can result from many common personal injury accidents. Car fires after accidents, products and premises liability incidents and many others can inflict heat and fire upon injured victims. Burn injuries can be incredibly painful and may deprive victims of their ability to work. In some situations, victims may be able to seek compensation for their losses based on their serious injuries. Their personal injury attorneys can help them plan their legal strategies and pleadings.