Burn injuries are among the most painful and life-altering injuries a person can experience. Whether caused by a car accident, workplace incident, defective product, or unsafe property conditions, the consequences can be devastating—both physically and emotionally. In Georgia, if your burn was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation that covers far more than your immediate medical bills.
The Lasting Impact of Burn Injuries
Burns can range from minor first-degree injuries to severe third-degree wounds that affect deep tissues and nerves. The long-term effects often include:
- Extensive medical care: Surgeries, skin grafts, and extended hospital stays.
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement: Emotional and mental health impacts are common.
- Emotional trauma: Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can follow.
- Loss of function: Severe burns may impair mobility or your ability to work.
Proving Negligence in Georgia
To seek compensation, you must demonstrate that another party’s negligence directly caused your burn injury. Common examples include:
- A landlord failing to fix faulty wiring resulting in a fire.
- A manufacturer releasing an unsafe product that overheats or explodes.
- A reckless driver causing a collision that leads to a fire.
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule: if you’re found 50% or more at fault, you may be unable to recover damages. Your compensation will be reduced proportionally if you made a contributory error.
Types of Compensation You May Recover
If the claim succeeds, compensation may include:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income and loss of earning capacity
- Emotional distress and pain and suffering
- Costs associated with disfigurement or disability
Related Legal Considerations
Property damage in burn cases may extend beyond your vehicle. For instance, damaged personal property inside your vehicle or at the scene—like electronics or tools—may also qualify for compensation. Learn more about this in our article: Property damage in Georgia is more than just your car.
Furthermore, if your insurer covers an initial expense, they may pursue the at-fault party to recover that amount—a process known as subrogation. Understanding this process can protect your rights and help navigate insurance complexities. Read how it works in Georgia: What is subrogation and how does it work in Georgia?.
Why You Need Legal Help
Burn injury cases are complex. You may need expert witnesses, accident reconstruction, and detailed documentation of emotional and financial damages. At Benavidez Law Firm, we handle every aspect of your case—from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers and litigating if necessary. We work on a contingency basis, so you pay only if we win.
If you or a loved one suffered a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait—contact Benavidez Law Firm today for a free consultation and let us help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.