Burns and disfigurement are among the most devastating injuries that can result from car, truck, and motorcycle accidents in North Carolina. These injuries not only cause immense physical pain but can also lead to long-lasting emotional trauma and significant financial burdens.
As experienced North Carolina car accident lawyers, we understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to fighting for the rights of victims who have suffered burn injuries and disfigurement.
Contact our North Carolina burn injury lawyers today for a free consultation.
Types of Burn Injuries
Car crashes, truck accidents, and motorcycle wrecks can cause burns that range from minor to severe. Burns are classified into degrees based on the depth of tissue damage.
First Degree Burns
First-degree burns affect the epidermis (the outer layer of skin). Like a sunburn, they usually cause redness, minor swelling, and pain. First-degree burns typically heal within a week without scarring.
Second Degree Burns
Second-degree burns are more serious, affecting both the epidermis and the dermis (the second layer of skin). These burns often appear wet or moist and can cause severe pain, swelling, and blistering. Deep second-degree burns may lead to scarring.
Third Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are severe, destroying both the epidermis and dermis, and potentially damaging underlying fat, muscles, and bones. The burn site may appear white, charred, or leathery. Paradoxically, these burns may be less painful due to nerve damage.
Fourth-degree burns are the most severe. They extend through all layers of skin and affect deeper tissues, including muscles and bones. These burns can be life-threatening and often require extensive medical treatment.
Auto Accident Injuries Causing Disfigurement
While burns are a common cause of disfigurement in car accidents, other types of injuries can also lead to permanent changes in appearance.
Facial injuries often cause disfigurement. These can include fractures to the nose, cheekbones, jaw, or orbital bones around the eyes. Severe lacerations or burns to the face may result in noticeable scarring.
Amputation injuries, whether occurring during the accident or necessitated by medical intervention afterward, can cause significant disfigurement. The loss of a limb or digit dramatically alters a person’s appearance and functionality.
Severe lacerations, road rash, and crush injuries can all lead to extensive scarring or permanent deformities. Road rash is especially common in motorcycle accidents.
Compensation for Burns and Disfigurement
Car accident victims who suffer burns and disfigurement may be entitled to various forms of compensation.
Medical Expenses
Medical bills often form a significant portion of compensation in these cases. This can include immediate emergency treatment, reconstructive surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing care such as physical therapy or counseling.
Lost Wages and Lost Future Income
Accident victims can recover compensation for lost wages during their recovery. Burns and disfigurement can impact a person’s ability to perform their job or pursue certain career paths. Victims who are unable to work or earn as much money can seek compensation for lost earning potential.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering damages account for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. Burns are notoriously painful, and the psychological impact of disfigurement can be severe and long-lasting.
Disfigurement and Scarring
Specific compensation for disfigurement and scarring may be awarded, recognizing the unique challenges faced by those whose appearance has been permanently altered.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for reckless behavior. North Carolina law generally limits punitive damages to three times the amount of compensatory damages or $250,000, whichever is higher. The cap on punitive damages doesn’t apply to drunk driving accidents.
What Is the Average Burn Injury Settlement in North Carolina?
Settlement amounts for burn injuries can vary widely. Second-degree burns often result in settlements between $25,000 and $75,000. Settlements for severe third-degree burns can reach into the millions.
Severe burn injury cases can result in settlements of $500,000 or even millions. Settlements for facial disfigurement tend to be higher than claims for scarring on other body parts.
The settlement in any given case will depend on many factors, including the extent of the injuries and the impact on the victim’s life.
How a North Carolina Burn Injury Lawyer Can Help
Navigating a personal injury claim for burns and disfigurement can be complex and overwhelming, especially while recovering from such traumatic injuries. An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in several ways.
Gathering Evidence
A lawyer can help gather and preserve crucial evidence to support your personal injury claim. This may include accident reports, medical records, expert testimonies, and witness statements. They can also help document the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life, which is crucial for maximizing your compensation.
Settlement Negotiations
Our attorneys are well-versed in negotiating with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, but a skilled burn injury lawyer will fight for fair compensation. Your lawyer will also handle all communication with insurance companies and other parties, allowing you to focus on recovery.
Representation in Court
Most burn injury cases are settled outside of court. However, your attorney will be prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Deadline for Filing a Burn Injury Lawsuit in North Carolina
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally three years from the date of the injury. This means you have three years after the accident to file a lawsuit. There are exceptions to the standard deadline. For example, the time limit may be extended if the victim is under 18.
It’s essential to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Building a strong case takes time, and important evidence can be lost if it isn’t preserved quickly.
Contact Us Today for a Free Consultation
Burns and disfigurement can have profound and lasting impacts on victims’ lives. If you or a loved one has suffered such injuries in a car, truck, or motorcycle accident in North Carolina, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal representation.
A skilled attorney can fight for the full compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery and adapting to life after your injury. At North Carolina Car Accident Lawyers, we are here to guide you through the legal process.
Contact us today for a free case review!
