Burn injuries can be among the most serious injuries people can suffer in car accidents. Whether caused by fire, heat or chemicals, burns come in different degrees, each requiring different types of treatment.
Understanding the degrees of burns is key to knowing how serious an injury can be and what kind of care is needed. Below are some important factors to consider.
First-degree burns
First-degree burns are the least severe type. They impact only the outer layers of skin, causing redness and pain. These burns usually heal on their own within a week, with minimal scarring.
Second-degree burns
Second-degree burns are more serious. They go deeper into the skin, affecting both the outer layer and the layer beneath. These burns cause blistering, intense pain and significant swelling. Healing can take several weeks, and scarring is quite likely.
Third and fourth-degree burns
Third and fourth-degree burns are the most severe. They destroy both layers of skin and can damage underlying tissues. These burns may appear white, black or charred and can even be painless due to extensive nerve damage. Treatment often requires medical intervention, including skin grafts.
Car accidents can cause burns in various ways. One common cause is fires that break out after a collision. A damaged fuel tank, engine or electrical system can ignite and cause flames to spread. Another way burns can occur is through hot surfaces inside the car, such as a deployed airbag or a malfunctioning seat heater. In some cases, chemicals or hot liquids spilled during the accident can also lead to burn injuries.
If your accident was caused by negligence, you may be entitled to personal injury compensation.