Car accidents are traumatic events that can result in a range of injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious, life-threatening injuries such as severe burns. In Georgia, where the roads can be busy and congested, the risk of being involved in a car accident that results in severe burns is a stark reality.

The Various Causes of Severe Burns in Car Accidents

Severe burns from car accidents can occur in several ways:

1. Fires caused by fuel leaks or explosions: In a collision, a vehicle’s fuel tank may be compromised, resulting in leaks. These leaks can then ignite, causing fires that can burn occupants or other people nearby.
2. Contact with hot surfaces: A car has several hot surfaces, such as the engine and exhaust system, that can cause severe burns upon contact. This is especially true in the aftermath of a collision when these parts may be exposed or damaged.
3. Chemical burns: Cars contain various fluids and materials that can be hazardous. In a collision, occupants can be exposed to these harmful substances, resulting in chemical burns.
4. Electrical burns: Modern vehicles have complex electrical systems. If these systems are damaged in a collision, live wires may be exposed, putting occupants at risk of electrical burns.

Regardless of the cause, severe burns are excruciating and can result in long-term physical and emotional scarring. Victims may require extensive medical treatment, including surgeries and rehabilitation, to recover from these injuries.

The Different Degrees of Burns and Their Impact on the Victim

Burn injuries are typically classified into three degrees, based on the severity of the damage to the skin and underlying tissues:

1. First-degree burns: These are the least severe and affect only the outermost layer of the skin.
2. Second-degree burns: These affect both the outermost layer and the layer underneath, resulting in blistering and more severe pain.
3. Third-degree burns: These are the most severe burns and affect all layers of the skin, as well as the underlying tissues. Third-degree burns can result in permanent scarring and may require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and rehabilitation.

The Legal Implications of Severe Burns from Car Accidents in Georgia

If you have suffered severe burns as a result of a car accident in Georgia, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This compensation can help cover the costs of medical treatment, rehabilitation, lost wages, and other expenses related to your injury. Here are some key legal implications to consider:

1. Personal Injury Claims: If the car accident was caused by the negligence or wrongdoing of another driver, the burn victim may file a personal injury claim against that driver or their insurance company to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
2. Comparative Negligence: Georgia operates under a modified comparative negligence system, which means that the victim’s compensation may be reduced if they are found to be partially at fault for the accident.
3. Product Liability: If the burns were caused or worsened by a defective vehicle or vehicle part, the victim may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty product.
4. Insurance Claims: The victim can file a claim with their insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It’s important to note that Georgia requires all drivers to have liability insurance.
5. Workers’ Compensation: If the burn victim was on the job during the accident, they may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.
6. Statute of Limitations: In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations that dictates the timeframe within which a personal injury claim must be filed. This is typically two years from the date of the accident.
7. Punitive Damages: In some cases, if the at-fault driver’s actions were particularly egregious, the victim may be able to seek punitive and compensatory damages.

When dealing with the legal implications of severe burns from a car accident in Georgia, it’s essential to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Morain & Buckelew, LLC, we have the knowledge and expertise to help guide you through the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. 

Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation

We are here to help! Call us today at (404) 448-3146. If you or a loved one have suffered severe burns as a result of a car accident in Georgia, contact the experienced personal injury lawyers at Morain & Buckelew, LLC today. We will work with you to understand your rights and options and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in your time of need.