Burn Accident at Work: Do I Have a Case?

Introduction

When you sustain a burn accident at work, you may be eligible for compensation. This can help you with the immediate costs of treatment and allow you to focus on recovering from your injury. Although the Workers’ Compensation laws of your state may prevent you from filing a negligence lawsuit against your employer, you may be able to file a lawsuit against a negligent third party other than your employer or a co-worker.

What is a burn accident at work?

This is a common workplace injury, and it can be very serious. The most severe types of burns include:

• Chemical burns - This type of burn occurs when chemicals come into contact with your skin and cause damage to the tissue below.
• Electrical burns - When electricity comes into contact with your body through any part of your skin, you'll experience an electrical shock and possibly suffer from internal damage as well.
• Burns caused by exposure to open flame or fire
• Hot liquid burns

Do I need a lawyer?

It is always best to consult with a workers’ comp lawyer after suffering an injury in a workplace accident. He or she can help you understand the law and how to recover compensation for your claim, including how to get your medical expenses paid.

Can I file a Workers' Compensation claim?

Workers' compensation is a type of insurance that helps you pay medical bills and lost wages if you're injured on the job. However, most states’ Workers’ Comp laws have an “exclusive remedy” provision which stops an injured worker from suing his or her employer for pain and suffering compensation. If your state has such a law, then your recovery against your employer will be limited to payment of your medical bills and the wages you lost because you couldn’t work due to your injuries.

Can I sue for pain and suffering compensation?

The answer is no and yes. No, you cannot sue your employer (or a co-worker) for pain and suffering compensation for your burn injuries if your state’s Workers’ Comp law has an “exclusive remedy” provision.

However, the answer is yes if you are suing a negligent third party whose negligence is responsible for your burns.

What can cause a burn injury while on-the-job?

Burns can be caused by hot liquids, steam, fire and electricity.

What are the medical symptoms and complications of a burn accident?

Here are some of the medical symptoms and complications that can develop as a result of a burn accident:

• Skin tissue damage
• Pain
• Internal organ damage
• Deep tissue damage
• Muscle and nerve damage
• Loss of function

What is the treatment for a burn accident?

The treatment for a burn depends on the severity of the injury. It is not uncommon for burn injuries to recover from surgery and extensive physical and rehabilitation therapy.

Conclusion

A burn injury suffered while on the job can be very serious and can cause a lot of pain and suffering. If you or someone you know has suffered a burn injury while on the job, it's important to get medical attention immediately. You should also speak with an attorney about filing a claim for compensation.