Tampa Burn Injury Lawyer

Fighting For Those Who Have Suffered From Burn Injuries in Florida

Even a moderate burn injury can cause severe pain and disfigurement, and more severe burns can threaten the lives of those affected. The American Burn Association estimates that about 450,000 people in the United States are treated for burn injuries in hospitals every year, and 3,400 of those people die as a result of their burns. About 75 percent of those deaths are caused by residential fires, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that fires and burns are the third leading cause of death in homes across America.

At Robert Sparks Attorneys, our Tampa burn injury attorneys have spent their careers protecting the rights of serious injury victims throughout Florida and are dedicated to providing the highest level of legal assistance in order to secure our clients the compensation they deserve. If you suffered a burn injury as a result of someone’s negligence or wrongdoing, contact us today to discuss your situation. All of our cases are handled on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t be charged any legal fees until we help you recover an award for your injuries.

Did you suffer a burn injury? Contact us today at (813) 710-4816 to discuss your case with our burn injury attorney in Tampa.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries 

Burn injuries can occur due to various causes, often involving exposure to heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. Common causes include:

• Thermal Burns: Thermal burns occur from exposure to high temperatures, such as flames, hot liquids, steam, or hot surfaces. Examples include scalding from boiling water, touching a hot stove, or getting too close to a fire.
• Chemical Burns: Chemical burns result from contact with corrosive substances like acids or alkalis found in cleaning agents or industrial products. These burns can damage the skin and deeper tissues, often requiring immediate flushing with water.
• Electrical Burns: Electrical burns happen when electricity passes through the body, potentially causing both external skin burns and severe internal injuries. They are common in accidents involving live wires or lightning strikes.
• Radiation Burns: Radiation burns are caused by overexposure to ultraviolet rays (like sunburn) or medical radiation treatments. They can range from mild redness to severe tissue damage, depending on the intensity and duration of exposure.
• Friction Burns: Friction burns occur when the skin rubs against a rough surface, generating heat and damaging the skin. These injuries are often seen in accidents like falling off a bike or being dragged on a hard surface.
• Cold Burns (Frostbite): Cold burns, or frostbite, result from prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, leading to tissue damage. The skin and underlying tissues can freeze, mimicking the effects of thermal burns.
• Inhalation Burns: Inhalation burns happen when someone breathes in hot air, smoke, or toxic fumes during a fire. These burns can severely damage the respiratory tract, often requiring immediate medical attention.

How Severe Was Your Burn Injury?

All burns fall under the following four levels of classification:

• First-Degree Burns: This level of burn affects the epidermis (first layer of skin) and causes swelling, redness, and pain in the affected area. With proper care and first-aid, this type of burn generally heals within a week or so.
• Second-Degree Burns: This level of burn affects the epidermis and the dermis (second layer of skin) and causes swelling, red and/or white splotchy skin, and pain in the affected area. It may appear wet or moist, and can blister which may cause scarring.
• Third-Degree Burns: This level of burn affects the epidermis, the dermis, and the fat layer underneath the skin, and may destroy the nerves in the affected area. The burnt area may appear black, wet, waxy, or leathery. Because large fires are a common cause of third-degree burns, the victim may also suffer from smoke inhalation.
• Fourth-Degree Burns: This level of burn affects the epidermis, the dermis, the fat layer, the muscles, the tendons, and the bone. The affected area often appears black and may need to be removed or amputated.

What are the Potential Complications of Serious Burn Injuries?

There are a variety of secondary ailments that may accompany your burn, each with its own potentially life-threatening complications:

• Scarring: As your burn injury heals, it may cause scar tissue to form. Depending on how severe your burn was, the new tissue may limit your ability to move the affected area, permanently destroy your sweat glands in the area, or pull your joints out of position.
• Infection: Any level of burn can leave you vulnerable to infection. If not properly treated, the infection could lead to sepsis that could in turn affect your bloodstream and put you at risk of shock or organ failure.
• Hypothermia: Losing a significant portion of your skin limits your body’s ability to regulate your internal temperature and may result in a dangerous drop in your body’s temperature.

In addition, burn injuries can lead to psychological, emotional, and social effects, such as the following:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Survivors may relive the trauma of the injury, experience nightmares, or feel anxious in certain environments.
• Depression and Anxiety: Disfigurement, physical limitations, and lifestyle changes can contribute to mental health issues.
• Body Image Issues: Visible scars and disfigurement often lead to self-consciousness and diminished self-esteem.
• Reduced Mobility and Functionality: Contractures and physical limitations may impair the ability to perform daily tasks or work.
• Social Isolation: Survivors might withdraw from social interactions due to self-consciousness about their appearance or abilities.
• Employment Challenges: Physical and psychological impairments can limit career opportunities or require a change in job roles.

Lastly, long-term medical needs include:

• Reconstructive Surgeries: Many survivors require multiple surgeries to improve function and appearance.
• Physical and Occupational Therapy: Rehabilitation is often needed to regain mobility, flexibility, and strength.
• Dermatological Care: Burned skin may require ongoing treatments, including moisturizers, compression garments, or laser therapy.

Tampa Burn Injury Statistics & Resources

In Tampa, burn injuries remain a significant concern, particularly in residential settings where faulty wiring, unattended cooking, and improper use of heating devices lead to devastating accidents. Statistics reveal that a considerable proportion of burn injury victims require extensive hospital care and, in some unfortunate cases, relocation to specialized burn units. Tampa's climate also contributes to the prevalence of specific types of burns, such as sunburns, highlighting the importance of public awareness and preventive measures. Residents must employ safety practices like checking smoke alarms and attending local fire safety workshops to reduce risks.

Tampa General Hospital and St. Joseph's Hospital offer specialized burn treatment facilities equipped with advanced medical infrastructure to handle severe cases for those seeking immediate care. Partnering with qualified local attorneys can aid victims in navigating the complexity of healthcare systems and insurance claims to ensure they access the necessary support. These resources underscore Tampa's commitment to addressing and preventing burn injuries.

Frequently Asked Questions About Burn Injuries

What Are the First Steps After Suffering a Burn Injury?

Immediately after suffering a burn injury, it is crucial to prioritize seeking medical attention to accurately evaluate the severity of the burn and prevent further complications. If the burn is due to a fire or hazardous substance, removing oneself from the source and ensuring a safe environment is essential. After stabilizing any immediate medical risks, documenting the circumstances of the injury through photos or written accounts can be helpful. This documentation supports legal claims by providing evidence of negligence, which is vital when pursuing compensation for damages. It is wise to consult with a local burn injury attorney promptly to gather insights on the potential for compensation and to receive guidance on navigating Tampa’s legal landscape.

How Can I Protect My Rights After a Burn Injury?

Protecting your rights following a burn injury involves systematically collecting and preserving evidence. Retain copies of medical records, incident reports, and any relevant communication with insurance companies. Engaging with an experienced burn injury attorney in Tampa ensures you understand your rights within Florida’s legal frameworks. Legal counsel can help identify liable parties and advocate on your behalf, working to secure compensation for medical and rehabilitation costs, as well as other damages such as emotional distress. Avoid making statements or accepting settlement offers from insurance companies without legal consultation to prevent underselling your claim.

What Compensation Is Available for Burn Injury Victims?

Burn injury victims in Tampa may be entitled to several forms of compensation to address the multifaceted impacts of their injuries. Financial recompense can cover hospital bills, ongoing medical treatments, and rehabilitation therapies needed to restore functionality. Victims may also claim compensation for lost wages due to incapacity to work, personal suffering, and emotional trauma. In some cases, legal action may address punitive damages to hold negligent parties accountable and prevent future incidents. Consulting with a burn injury attorney allows victims to understand potential compensation comprehensively and craft a legal strategy to maximize recovery.

When Should I Contact a Burn Injury Attorney?

Contacting a burn injury attorney should occur immediately following the injury to ensure complete protection of your rights. Florida’s statute of limitations can affect the admissibility of your claim if not filed promptly, underscoring the urgency of legal consultation. Early engagement with an attorney leads to the timely collection of crucial evidence and witness statements that strengthen your position.

Contact Our Tampa Burn Injury Attorney Today

If you suffered a severe burn injury, you deserve the chance to file a claim to secure the compensation you need for recovery. At Robert Sparks Attorneys, our Tampa burn injury attorneys have decades of collective experience and are committed to providing you with the care and assistance you need during this difficult time. Contact us to speak with one of our attorneys.

Contact Roberts Sparks Attorneys today to get started with our Tampa burn injury lawyers.