[1].2102181418550.jpg)
Any catastrophic injury can be devastating, but a catastrophic burn injury may be even more so because the physical scars remain long after the accident has ended. Catastrophic burn injuries are often the most severe degree of a burn injury (third-degree) and can take months or even years for a victim to return to a semblance of a normal life.
What Makes a Burn Injury “Catastrophic”?
Burn injuries are categorized into three degrees: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. The three degrees are characterized by the following symptoms:
- First-degree burns: The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters.
- Second-degree burns: The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen and painful.
- Third-degree burns: The burn site appears white or charred and there is no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.
Virtually all catastrophic burns are third-degree burns. Those who suffer from a third-degree burn often face a long road to recovery. The recovery process may involve the following treatments:
- Skin grafts to cover large wounds
- Physical therapy to relearn how to use damaged parts of the body
- Cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with post-traumatic stress from the incident
Seeking Justice After Suffering a Catastrophic Burn Injury
Catastrophic burn injuries can occur after prolonged contact with open flames. Such an incident may result from improperly installed, heat-producing appliances including stoves, ovens, heaters, and more. If you or someone you love sustained a severe burn injury due to an improperly installed appliance, our Los Angeles product liability attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Call Shoop | A Professional Law Corporation at (866) 884-1717 to schedule a free consultation.