Burn injuries are some of the most severe injuries workers sustain on the job. They often range from painful (but recoverable) to life-changing or fatal. Workers can suffer life-long scarring, disfigurement and potential loss of a body part. Sometimes, burns result in dangerous bacterial infections, loss of blood, or a significant drop in body temperature. Work-related burn injuries most often occur on construction sites or near boilers, hot stoves, electrical sources or hazardous chemicals.
If you sustained a burn injury on the job, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. Speak to an experienced workers' comp lawyer at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP Attorneys At Law to pursue a claim. Below, we discuss the most common types of work-related burn injuries and how to pursue workers' comp benefits. Here's what you should know.
Common types of work-related burn injuries
There are three categories of burn injuries based on severity. These include:
- First-degree burns. This type of burn is the least severe, yet still painful. It only affects the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis, and often leads to redness.
- Second-degree burns. The epidermis and second layer of the skin (dermis) sustain damage. This results in blisters, swelling, red and white spots, and scarring.
- Third-degree burns. All three layers of the skin sustain damage, including the fat layer beneath the dermis. This results in black, brown and white spots on the skin, damaged nerves, damaged tissue and permanent scarring.
Within the three categories of burns, the most common types are:
- Thermal burns - caused by direct exposure to a heat source, such as a flame or stovetop.
- Electrical burns - caused by contact with electrical sources, such as loose or broken wires.
- Chemical burns - caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals, such as acid, solvents and gasoline.
- Scalding burns - caused by exposure to dangerously hot liquids.
- Radiation burns - caused by exposure to ultraviolet light.
How long do burn injuries take to heal?
Recovering from a burn injury depends on the severity of the injury. Minor burns can heal within weeks, while more severe burns can take months to recover from. Sometimes, the damage is permanent. Treatment for serious burns often includes pain medication, antibiotics, surgery, a skin graph and rehabilitation.
It's critical that you know your rights after sustaining a burn injury on the job. Notify your employer that you were injured on the job and get to a doctor as soon as possible. A burn injury can have a serious impact on your life and your ability to work. That's why the legal team at Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano LLP Attorneys At Law is committed to helping injured workers get the benefits they deserve. We can help you pursue a workers' compensation claim and get compensated for your medical expenses and lost wages while you recover. If you're not able to return to work or must take a lower-paying job as a result of your injury, then you may be eligible for disability benefits.
Our New York workers' comp attorneys will work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for your case. We'll help you fill out the required paperwork, prepare your case for trial and maximize your chances of getting a fair settlement. Our law firm serves injured workers in NYC and throughout New York State. Contact us online or call us to get started.