Serious Burns Claims

What Constitutes a Serious Burn?

Burns are classified based on their depth and severity:

1. First-Degree Burns

• Superficial burns affecting only the outer layer of the skin.

2. Second-Degree Burns

• Partial-thickness burns causing blisters and damage to the second layer of skin.

3. Third-Degree Burns

• Full-thickness burns causing extensive tissue damage and potentially affecting nerves, muscles, and bones.

4. Chemical and Electrical Burns

• Burns caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals or electrical currents, often resulting in additional complications.

Common Causes of Serious Burns

Burn injuries often occur due to negligence in various environments. Common causes include:

1. Workplace Accidents

• Exposure to hot surfaces, flames, or chemicals.
• Lack of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Faulty machinery or unsafe practices.

2. Road Traffic Accidents

• Burns from vehicle fires, hot metal, or steam during collisions.

3. Public Space Incidents

• Scalds from hot drinks, food, or improperly maintained equipment in restaurants and cafes.

4. Defective Products

• Electrical appliances or devices that malfunction and cause burns.

5. Medical Negligence

• Burns caused during surgery, radiotherapy, or improper use of medical equipment.

Legal Basis for a Serious Burns Claim

Under UK personal injury law, if your burn injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to claim compensation. To succeed, you must establish the following:

1. Duty of Care

The responsible party owed you a duty to ensure your safety.

2. Breach of Duty

The party failed to uphold this duty, resulting in unsafe conditions or actions.

3. Causation

The breach directly led to your burn injury.

4. Damages

You experienced physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result of the injury.

Compensation for Serious Burns

The compensation you may receive depends on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. Claims typically include:

1. General Damages

• Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.
• Disfigurement and loss of confidence.

2. Special Damages

• Medical expenses, including surgery, rehabilitation, and skin grafts.
• Loss of earnings and future income.
• Travel expenses for medical appointments.
• Costs of cosmetic treatments or specialised care.

Time Limits for Making a Serious Burns Claim

The standard time limit for personal injury claims in the UK is three years from the date of the accident. Exceptions include:

• If the claimant is under 18, the three-year period begins on their 18th birthday.
• For individuals lacking mental capacity, the time limit is paused until capacity is regained.

How HPA Solicitors Ltd Can Help

Navigating a serious burns claim can be complex and overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At HPA Solicitors Ltd, we provide expert legal support to ensure your case is handled professionally and compassionately.

Why Choose Us?

• specialised Expertise: Extensive experience in handling burn injury claims.
• personalised Service: Tailored advice and support based on your unique circumstances.
• No Win, No Fee: Minimize financial risks with our conditional fee agreements.

Our Process

1. Initial Consultation: Discuss your case with our expert team.
2. Evidence Collection: Gather medical records, witness statements, and photographs.
3. Claim Submission: File a formal claim against the negligent party.
4. Negotiation or Litigation: Seek a fair settlement or pursue court proceedings if necessary.