Suffering a burn injury is one of the most physically and emotionally devastating experiences a person can face. When that burn is caused by the negligence of another, it adds even more weight to your shoulders. 

To ease your uncertainty, Roman & Boock’s St. Louis burn injury lawyers are breaking down the basics of burn injuries and how we will help you move forward. 

The Types of Burn Injuries 

Burns are not a one-size-fits-all injury. Generally, there are four main categories: 

• Thermal burns come from heat sources such as hot metal, scalding liquids or open flames.
  
• Radiation burns result from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays or other sources of radiation, such as X-rays.
  
• Chemical burns stem from contact with strong acids, alkalies, detergents or solvents.
  
• Electrical burns come from touching electrical currents, either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC).

Each of these burns are classified into three degrees based on their severity. A burn lawsuit would only be viable for second-degree and third-degree burns. These deep burns impact nerves, joints, ligaments, muscles and bones — necessitating extensive compensation. 

The Categories of Burn Cases

Your burn lawsuit may vary in terms of timeline, liability and compensation depending on how you received the burn. Our St. Louis burn injury lawyers typically encounter the following case types: 

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents 

Car and truck crashes turn everyday materials into hazards. Gasoline, battery acid and other fluids may spill. Metal and engine components may burst into flames. Even damaged wiring can come into contact with you or the car’s exterior. 

For car accidents, Missourians have five years to file a lawsuit and Illinoisans have two. Liability falls primarily on the person who caused the crash. However, you may share a portion of the liability, which reduces potential compensation. 

2. Workplace Accidents

The tools and materials that make industrial jobs possible often create hazardous conditions. Without proper safeguards in place, employees may be exposed to hazardous materials, high-heat machinery or exposed electrical systems. 

For workers’ compensation incidents, Missourians have two years to file a lawsuit and Illinoisans have three. St. Louis burn injury lawyers would take action against your employer, their insurance company and even third parties, such as manufacturers. 

3. Defective Products

Fires and explosions can happen anywhere, but these incidents are often traced back to a singular defect. Electronics, kitchen appliances and other products may have flaws, errors or inadequate warnings — resulting in severe burns. 

For product liability incidents, Missourians have five years to file a burn lawsuit and Illinoisans have two. Multiple parties throughout the product’s supply chain may be found liable for your injuries, including manufacturers, distributors, suppliers and retailers.

The Value of a St. Louis Burn Injury Lawyer 

For burn injury victims, navigating the legal system alone is overwhelming. Hiring an attorney ensures you always know what’s at stake and what’s next in your case. 

A St. Louis burn injury lawyer will guide you through: 

• Case Evaluation. Your case starts with a simple conversation. We discuss your injuries, the circumstances behind it and your options moving forward.
  
• Evidence Gathering. Our attorneys gather all evidence needed for a burn lawsuit,  including medical records, accident reports and witness statements. Additionally, we help you document the long-term impact of your injury and estimate future medical needs.
  
• Negotiations. We negotiate with the liable party’s insurance provider to see if a reasonable settlement is a possibility.
  
• Litigation. If we cannot come to an agreement, our experienced trial attorneys will take your case to court and fight for maximum compensation.

The Start of Your Journey to Justice 

We understand the physical, emotional and financial toll of burn injuries. During this difficult time, a St. Louis burn injury lawyer will be invaluable. Our attorneys are dedicated to easing the weight of the legal system, empowering you to move forward. 
Start your burn lawsuit with Roman & Boock online or at 314.754.1500.