Austin Burn Injury Attorney
While our injury attorneys know that most people only sustain minor burns, such as sunburns, throughout their lives, we also know that, sadly, some must deal with the debilitating repercussions of more severe burns. These burns can not only cause severe pain for the victim but also potentially lifelong problems, such as disfigurement, emotional scarring, amputation, and paralysis.
In addition to physical ailments, burn injuries often lead to significant psychological difficulties, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Recognizing the comprehensive impact of such injuries, our team focuses on securing compensation beyond immediate medical expenses to cover long-term therapy and care.
We recovered $1.55 million for the victim of an explosion burn injury, as well as $11 million for another burn victim.
The lawyers at the Law Offices of Vic Feazell, P.C. understand how devastating these injuries can be, especially when they could have been prevented had the party responsible only acted more carefully.
Our firm is committed to holding negligent parties accountable. We undertake thorough investigations, gather compelling evidence, and collaborate with medical and industry experts to build robust arguments supporting our client's claims.
Suffered a burn injury in Austin? Call the Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C. today at (254) 938-6885 or contact us online for a free consultation!
What is a Burn Injury?
A burn injury occurs when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. Burns can range from minor surface injuries to catastrophic, life-threatening conditions requiring long-term care and multiple surgeries.
Medical professionals typically classify burns by their severity:
- First-degree burns: Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). These burns cause redness and pain but usually heal without permanent damage.
- Second-degree burns: Affect both the epidermis and dermis (the second layer of skin). These burns can cause blistering, severe pain, and scarring.
- Third-degree burns: Destroy both layers of skin and damage underlying tissues such as fat, muscle, or bone. Nerve endings may be destroyed, leading to numbness.
- Fourth-degree burns: Extend into deeper tissues, sometimes involving tendons and bones. These burns are often fatal or result in amputation.
The more severe the burn, the more extensive the treatment and rehabilitation process will be—and the greater the financial burden on victims and their families.
Common Types of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries can occur in a variety of situations, both at home and on the job. Common types include:
Thermal Burns
These occur from direct contact with flames, steam, hot surfaces, or scalding liquids. They are common in house fires, kitchen accidents, and industrial incidents.
Chemical Burns
Exposure to strong acids, alkalis, or other toxic substances can cause serious chemical burns. These often occur in laboratories, manufacturing plants, or when household cleaning agents are mishandled.
Electrical Burns
Electrical currents passing through the body can cause deep tissue damage and internal injuries. These burns are common in construction or workplace settings where safety standards are ignored.
Radiation Burns
Exposure to radiation—from medical treatments, sunburn, or industrial accidents—can damage the skin and internal organs.
Friction Burns
A combination of heat and abrasion, friction burns are common in motorcycle or bicycle accidents when the skin rubs against rough surfaces like asphalt (“road rash”).
Regardless of the cause, burn victims may face long recovery periods, multiple surgeries, and psychological distress. Our Austin burn injury lawyer can help pursue full compensation to ease these burdens.
The Aftermath of a Burn Injury
The impact of a burn injury extends far beyond the initial pain and trauma. Victims often experience:
- Extensive medical treatment: Including skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing wound care.
- Severe pain and emotional suffering: Chronic pain, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are common.
- Scarring and disfigurement: Burns can permanently alter a person’s appearance, affecting self-esteem and quality of life.
- Loss of income: Victims may be unable to return to work for months—or ever—due to disability or ongoing medical care.
- High financial costs: Hospitalization, surgeries, and therapy can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
In Austin, the availability of specialized medical facilities equipped to handle burn injuries is a vital component of a victim’s recovery process. Facilities like the Dell Seton Medical Center provide comprehensive care for burn victims, offering an integrated approach that includes acute care, rehabilitation, and psychological support.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Austin
Burn injuries often occur because someone failed to follow proper safety procedures. In many cases, these accidents are preventable and happen due to negligence. Some of the most common causes of burn injuries include:
- Apartment or house fires caused by faulty wiring or unsafe conditions
- Workplace accidents, particularly in construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing jobs
- Car and truck accidents that lead to fires or explosions
- Defective products, such as malfunctioning batteries, electronics, or appliances
- Chemical exposure from industrial substances or cleaning products
- Restaurant or kitchen accidents involving hot oil or boiling liquids
When burn injuries occur because a property owner, manufacturer, or employer failed to maintain safe conditions, victims may have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim.
Burn Injury Treatment and Recovery
Treating severe burns often requires extensive medical care and long-term rehabilitation. Many burn victims must undergo months or even years of treatment. Common forms of treatment include:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization
- Skin graft surgery to repair damaged tissue
- Reconstructive surgery to improve function and appearance
- Physical therapy to restore movement and flexibility
- Occupational therapy to help patients regain daily skills
- Psychological counseling to cope with trauma and emotional distress
Because burn injuries can require ongoing treatment, it is important that any settlement or verdict accounts for both current and future medical expenses.
Who May Be Liable for a Burn Injury?
Determining liability is one of the most important parts of a burn injury case. Several different parties may be responsible depending on how the accident occurred. Potentially liable parties may include:
- Property owners who fail to maintain safe premises
- Employers who do not follow workplace safety regulations
- Manufacturers of defective or dangerous products
- Construction companies or contractors responsible for unsafe job sites
- Drivers who cause accidents leading to fires or explosions
Compensation Available in Burn Injury Cases
Burn injuries often lead to significant financial and emotional hardships. A successful personal injury claim may allow victims to recover compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills and hospital expenses
- Future medical care and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and permanent disfigurement
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
Every burn injury case is different, which is why it is important to speak with an experienced Austin burn injury attorney who can evaluate the full value of your claim.
How an Austin Burn Injury Lawyer Can Help
Working with an experienced attorney can make all the difference in a burn injury claim. At Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C., we:
- Conduct a thorough investigation to determine how the burn occurred and who is responsible.
- Collect evidence such as medical records, expert testimony, and witness statements.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement.
- Represent you in court if the insurer refuses to pay what you deserve.
- Ensure that all damages are included, including medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care expenses.
We understand the unique challenges burn victims face and provide compassionate, client-focused representation every step of the way.
Burn Injury Claim FAQs
How long do I have to file a burn injury claim in Texas?
Under Texas law, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. Failing to file within this time could forfeit your right to compensation.
Do I need a lawyer if insurance offers a settlement?
Yes. Insurance companies often offer low settlements that don’t cover long-term medical costs. An experienced Austin burn injury lawyer can evaluate your case and negotiate for the full amount you deserve.
What if the burn happened at work?
If you were injured on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, in cases involving employer negligence or third-party liability, you may also pursue a separate personal injury claim.
Contact Our Austin Burn Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one suffered a burn injury in Austin or the surrounding area, don’t face the legal process alone. The team at Law Offices Of Vic Feazell, P.C. is committed to helping you recover physically, emotionally, and financially.
Schedule a free case review with our Austin burn injury attorney now!