While fire is quite rare in most car accidents when it does occur, the injuries can be debilitating or even deadly.
Unlike in movies, cars generally don’t explode the second they hit a pole. In fact, fire is quite rare in car accidents. However, when it does occur, the injuries can be debilitating or even deadly.
Burn injuries during a car crash can occur from a variety of different elements, such as:
- Airbag deployment
- Exposure to heat, steam or heated debris
- Explosions or fire
- Electrocution
Burn injuries can be severe and require extensive treatment and medical care. They pose a unique challenge to the victims as these types of injuries can take a serious toll on a person’s life. Here’s what you need to know if you or someone you know have suffered burn injuries during a car accident.
Types of Burns That Occur in Car Accidents
Some burns heal in a matter of days, while others can scar a person for life. Here are the different types of burns that can occur in a car crash:
- First-Degree Burns: This type of burn affects the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis.) Although they are minor and generally heal in a few days, they can still cause extreme pain.
- Second-Degree Burns: This type of burn will affect the epidermis and the layer underneath, called the dermis. You will get blisters, and your injury will look wet and red. The burns will heal in about ten to 21 days, and the pain can be extreme.
- Third-Degree Burns: This type of burn is extremely dangerous as it affects all the layers of the skin. In some cases, it can even extend to the subcutaneous tissue. The victim generally won’t feel any pain as their nerves are damaged.
- Fourth-Degree Burns: This type of injury is often deadly as the burns extend beyond the skin layers and penetrate the muscles and bones.
What to Do in Case of a Burn Injury
First aid is crucial in reducing the impact of a burn injury. If someone has caught on fire after a car crash, help the victim roll over to extinguish the flames. Don’t apply ice water on the burns nor ointments, lotions, or any other remedy. Likewise, if the clothes are stuck to the victim, don’t try to remove them. Leave all that to paramedics.
If the person is in shock, has difficulty breathing, and feels nauseated, you may decide to offer them water and help the rest until the paramedics arrive.
Getting Compensation for Burn Injuries
Burn injuries can dramatically affect a person’s quality of life. In addition to the intensive care and scarring, these types of injuries can also leave an emotional mark on the victim. Not to mention, depending on the severity of the burn, various complications may arise. The risk of infection is also high in burn victims, and they often require numerous surgeries.
The driver responsible for your pain and suffering should be held liable. Speak with an experienced St. Louis car accident lawyer to help you get justice and receive proper compensation after a car accident. Give us a call 24/7 at (314) 361-4242 for a FREE Consultation.