What Are the Most Common Burn Injuries From Car Accidents?

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, but burns are among the most severe. They can lead to long-term physical and emotional challenges, often requiring significant medical care and recovery. The most common kinds range from first-degree burns to airbag burns.

What Causes Burn Injuries in Car Accidents?

Burns can happen when vehicles catch fire due to fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or engine damage during a crash. Hot surfaces, such as engines, exhaust systems, and airbags, can also cause serious burns. In some cases, battery acid may leak and cause chemical burns.

What Are First-Degree Burns?

“First-degree burns” affect only the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. They are typically characterized by redness, mild swelling, and tenderness. These burns are painful but generally heal within several days without lasting damage. Although considered less severe, they can still cause discomfort and may require basic medical attention to prevent infection.

What Are Second-Degree Burns?

“Second-degree burns” affect the outer and underlying layers of skin, known as the epidermis and dermis. They often cause intense pain, swelling, blistering, and noticeable redness. These burns can result from direct flames, hot surfaces, or scalding fluids during a collision. Healing may take several weeks, and medical treatment is often required to prevent complications and promote proper recovery.

What Are Third-Degree Burns?

“Third-degree burns” extend through all layers of the skin and may affect underlying tissues such as muscles, fat, or nerves. The skin can appear charred, white, or leathery, and pain levels vary depending on nerve damage. Immediate medical intervention is usually necessary, and recovery might involve skin grafts, surgeries, and long-term rehabilitation.

What Are Chemical Burns After a Car Accident?

“Chemical burns” occur when hazardous substances, such as battery acid, coolant, or other automotive fluids, come into contact with the skin during or after a crash. These burns can penetrate deeper layers of tissue. Immediate flushing of the affected area and professional medical treatment are often required to minimize long-term effects.

Can Airbags Cause Burn Injuries?

Airbags are designed to reduce the impact of collisions, but they can sometimes cause friction or thermal burns. The rapid deployment of an airbag releases hot gases and creates intense force, which can lead to superficial burns on the face, arms, or chest. While these injuries are typically less severe than other types of burns, they still require medical evaluation to prevent potential complications.

How Are Burn Injuries From Car Accidents Treated?

Treatment for burn injuries depends on their severity. Minor burns may require topical ointments and dressings, while more severe burns often involve hospitalization, intravenous fluids, pain management, and possible surgeries. Skin grafting and reconstructive procedures may be necessary for extensive damage. Rehabilitation, physical therapy, and long-term monitoring are frequently part of the recovery process for deeper burns.

What Long-Term Effects Can Burn Injuries Cause?

Burn injuries can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Scarring, nerve damage, and reduced mobility are common outcomes for those with severe burns. Additionally, extended hospital stays and rehabilitation can create significant medical expenses. Emotional trauma and psychological distress may also arise, making recovery a lengthy, challenging process.

How Can a Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer Help After a Burn Injury?

A knowledgeable Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer can review the circumstances of your crash, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Having legal support can make it easier to focus on the healing process after a severe burn injury from a crash.

Get the Guidance You Need for Your Burn Injury Case From a Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King

Burn injuries from car accidents can require extensive treatment, prolonged recovery periods, and significant financial outlays. For information about your legal rights, contact a Washington, D.C. car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. For a free consultation, call today at 888-740-KING (5464) or complete our online form. With office locations in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, we proudly serve clients in the surrounding areas.