Cook County Burn Injury Attorneys

Lawyers in Arlington Heights and Rolling Meadows for Victims Who Have Suffered Serve Burns and Scarring

The American Burn Association estimates that over one million people in the United States sustain burn injuries that require medical attention each year. While advancements in medical technology and specialized burn-treatment centers offer more effective therapy and surgical options for burn victims than in the past, some 40,000 victims per year still must be hospitalized for burn injuries, and more than 4,000 do not survive their injuries.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we understand how devastating burn injuries can be, especially when they were caused by the negligence of someone else. If you or a member of your family has been seriously burned, our experienced lawyers are equipped to help you pursue full compensation for your injuries.

Four Degrees of Burns

You might be aware that burns are classified into categories based on their severity, but many people are often uncertain about the characteristics of each category.

• A first-degree burn is the least severe and affects only the top layer of skin-the epidermis. In most cases, the skin might turn red and be warm to the touch. A sunburn or a quick touch of a hot surface would generally constitute a first-degree burn, and medical attention is rarely necessary.
• A second-degree burn or a "partial thickness burn" is a little more serious, and it involves the top layer of skin and part of the lower layer-the dermis. If you have ever suffered a burn that blistered or became swollen, that was most likely a second-degree burn. Most smaller second-degree burns can be treated with home remedies, but it is important to take steps to prevent infection while the burn heals.
• A third-degree burn or a "full thickness burn" destroys the top and lower layers of skin and may penetrate into the subcutaneous tissue. The skin around the burn might be blackened or charred, and because the burn has affected nerve endings, the burn is likely to be excruciatingly painful. A third-degree burn requires immediate medical attention.
• A fourth-degree burn is a traumatic and devastating injury, and such a burn goes all the way through both layers of skin as well as the subcutaneous tissue. Such a burn can even extend into the underlying muscle or bone, and emergency medical attention is necessary, as a fourth-degree burn is often life-threatening.

Burn injuries can be caused in a variety of ways, many of which may be the result of negligence or reckless behavior, including:

• Car, truck, or motorcycle accidents;
• Chemical spills or exposure;
• Fires or explosions;
• Children left unattended; and
• Workplace accidents.

Schaumburg Attorneys for Scarring and Disfigurement Compensation

Victims of burn injuries caused by another party's negligence are able to collect compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other measurable losses. More subjective damages may also be available for pain and suffering. Burn injuries can cause severe and permanent scarring. When such scarring occurs on the victim's face or other visible areas, it may be considered disfigurement. Scarring and disfigurement can result in a lifetime of embarrassment and issues with your self-image. They can even make it more difficult for you to get a job or enjoy social activities. The overall result is likely to be a decreased quality of life and serious emotional distress. If you have suffered severe burns that led to permanent scarring and disfigurement, our attorneys can help you take steps toward collecting the damages you deserve.

Call 847-797-8000 for a Free Phone Consultation

To learn more about recovering compensation for burn injuries, contact our office. Call 847-797-8000 to schedule your free phone consultation and case review today. With five locations throughout the region, Newland & Newland, LLP serves clients in Arlington Heights, Rolling Meadows, Schaumburg, Long Grove, Mount Prospect, Buffalo Grove, Palatine, Des Plaines, Wheeling, Elk Grove Village, DuPage County, Lake County, and Cook County.