Burn Injuries

Every year, tens of thousands of people suffer burn injuries in the United States. They are so common, in fact, that they are the third leading cause of fatal home injuries and the fifth leading cause of unintentional death in the US. Despite this high number of severe burn incidents, a vast many more victims suffer minor home burns, as well.

Burn Injury Classification

Burns are classified into three different categories, depending on their severity. Minor burns, such as those that occur when you briefly touch a heated surface or even simple sunburns, are considered the least dangerous of the three. These are not life-threatening, but they are painful since the epidermis is harmed. They are more widely known as first degree burns.

When deeper skin layers are damaged, then the burn is considered to be of the second degree. Touching a pan right out of the oven or contacting an open flame can cause second degree burns. Typically, these injuries are characterized by blistering, localized redness, and tender, pink skin. Most often, they will heal by themselves and not necessitate medical attention.

Third degree burns, the worst of the three, occur when the body has been exposed to extreme heat. They cause significant and deep skin damage, and can even harm the tissues underneath. These burns are characterized by bloody blisters, destruction of skin and bone, and deep red skin. These burns will not heal on their own and will cause scarring. Medical attention is necessary to ensure that victims recover.

Contact Us

If you or someone you love has suffered a burn injury as a result of another person’s negligence, then you may have the right to claim damages. The St. Petersburg personal injury lawyers of Beltz & Ruth, P.A. can help you with your case. To learn more, contact us today by calling 1-800-931-4369.