Car fires are much more common than many people realize. According to some reports, there are roughly 170,000 car fires in the United States every year. These result in 700 fatalities and 13,000 injuries.
Naturally, not all car fires happen after accidents, but a crash can be one cause. Both electric vehicles and those with internal combustion engines do carry some level of fire risk.
When people suffer burn injuries in these accidents, they can typically be classified in three different ways. It’s important to understand them when seeking both medical treatment and financial compensation.
First-degree burns
A first-degree burn means that the outer layer of the skin is red, dry and painful. Typically, the skin will not blister and, with medical treatment, the person can recover from their burn injuries in a relatively short time.
Second-degree burns
With a second-degree burn, blistering and swelling are common, and the burn could be much more painful. This is because it can extend down into the dermis, which is a lower level of skin below the epidermis. These burns often take much longer to heal.
Third-degree burns
The most serious injuries are known as third-degree burns, where both layers of the skin are completely destroyed. This means that tendons, muscles, bones, ligaments and other tissues can be affected. Third-degree burns can be incredibly painful, may require emergency treatment and can lead to long-term issues like scarring and disfigurement.
If you suffered serious burn injuries in an auto accident caused by another driver, it is crucial that you know exactly what options you have to seek financial compensation.
