When you tell people you have been in a car accident, they think you probably sustained injuries like whiplash, back or shoulder pain, head or brain injuries. However, car accident burn injuries are another type of auto injuries than can be serious and fatal.
Causes of Car Accident Burn Injuries
Car accident burn injuries occur as a result of auto collision of some sort. They can also be caused by heat in the engine, running gear or wheel area. You can sustain such injuries if your car catches on fire after a crash. Other times, exposure to hot metal, hot oil, hot water or steam can cause burn injuries. Severity of these injuries depends on the nature of the burn.
According to the US Fire Administration, 83% of highway vehicle fires took place in passenger cars. Problems in the engine, running gear and wheels cause 36% of fatal accidents. Almost half of the ignition fires were a result of mechanical failures. 29% of these accidents were caused by insulation around electrical wiring. And flammable liquids in the engine cause 18%. But the most disturbing statistic is that collisions contribute to 60% of fatal car accident burn injuries.
Types of Car Accident Burn Injuries
Depending on how the accident occurred, you may sustain varying degrees of burns. There are mainly three types of car accident burn injuries: first, second and third degree burns.
First-degree burns: First degree burns affect the outer layer of the skin (called epidermis) only. If you sustained this type of burns, your skin may be red and painful in the beginning. But this will soon go away.
Second-degree burns: This type is also considered to be in the outer layer of the skin. But second degree burns affect the skin a little deeper than first degree burns (the layer is called the dermis). In this case, your skin will also be red and painful. The type of burns also blisters your skin.
Third-degree burns: These are severe burns that damage the epidermis and the dermis. Third degree burns can cause damage to bones, muscles, and tendons. If you sustained this type, you are likely to undergo multiple surgeries. Unfortunately this type can be fatal in the instance of infections or any other complications.
Liability in Car Accident Burn Injuries
A car is designed to be safely operating in the streets without any potential for fire. However, this is not always the case. For that reason, there are government entities that ensure our safety by enforcing rules and regulations for car manufacturing and maintenance. Failure to do so gives rise to liability concerns if an accident takes place. For example, last month the NHTSA has opened an investigation into Hyundai and Kia vehicle models that caught fire. In case you suffered or are suffering from burn injuries due to a manufacturing or maintenance negligence, you are entitled to legal rights for pain and suffering compensation. However, if you sustained burn injuries as a result of a collision while driving, depending on who is at fault, you can also be entitled for legal compensation.
Ontario Attorney for Car Accident Burn Injuries
In order to determine your legal dues and rights in the instance of a car accident burn injuries case, we recommend an expert opinion. Call to receive a free consultation from an experienced attorney Alexander Napolin. Car accident burn injuries cases can be complex to navigate solely. That is why having a Ontario accident injury lawyer on board will assure you most optimal results.
