Suffering from a burn injury in New York City can be a distressing experience, both physically and emotionally.
The bustling cityscape, from its busy construction sites to its crowded restaurants, sees its fair share of burn accidents and fire injuries, most of which are due to cooking accidents, chemical spills, or industrial incidents.
If you’re struggling with a burn injury, it’s important to have a caring team to guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you need. Our New York City burn injury lawyer is here to listen and support you through every step of your case.
Our New York City burn injury lawyers are ready to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Reach out today for a free consultation to discuss your burn accident and fire injury case.
Do You Have a Case?
To pursue a burn injury lawsuit, several legal elements must be present, which establish whether your injuries are a result of another party’s negligence and if you are entitled to compensation.
- Duty of Care: The first element to establish is that the party responsible for your injury owed you a duty of care, which means that they had a legal obligation to act in a way that would prevent harm to others. For example, property owners must ensure their premises are safe, and manufacturers must produce products that are free from defects.
- Breach of Duty: A breach occurs when the responsible party fails to meet the standard of care required in their role. Examples include a landlord failing to fix faulty wiring, or a manufacturer producing a defective product that causes burns.
- Causation: Establishing causation means showing that your injury would not have occurred if not for the actions– or inactions– of the other party. For instance, if a defective product caused your burns, it must be clear that the defect, and not some other factor, directly led to your injury.
- Damages: Finally, to have a valid case, you must have suffered damages as a result of the injury. Damages can include physical harm, such as severe burns requiring medical treatment, financial losses like medical bills or lost wages, and even non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
If each of these elements is present in your situation, you likely have a strong case. Consulting with our knowledgeable New York burn injury lawyer can help you understand the intricacies of personal injury law and work towards getting the compensation you deserve.
Damages You Can Recover
The impact of a burn due to someone else's negligence can be overwhelming, affecting both your finances and quality of life. Fortunately, you may be entitled to recover various types of damages to help alleviate these burdens.
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate you for the financial losses you have incurred as a result of your injury, including medical expenses such as:
- Hospital bills
- Rehabilitation
- Ongoing treatment costs
- The cost of future medical care if your injuries require long-term attention.
Additionally, you can recover lost wages if your injury prevents you from working. If your ability to earn a living is permanently affected, you may also be entitled to compensation for loss of earning capacity.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are more subjective than economic damages, and compensate you for the intangible effects of your injury, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
For instance, if your burn injury has left you with permanent scars or disfigurement, you may be compensated for the impact this has on your quality of life.
Non-economic damages recognize that the consequences of a severe injury often go beyond the financial and can deeply impact your mental and emotional well-being.
Punitive Damages
In some cases, the court may award punitive damages intended to punish the responsible party for particularly reckless or egregious behavior.
Punitive damages are less common than economic and non-economic damages and are generally awarded when the defendant’s actions are deemed especially harmful or malicious.
For example, suppose a company knowingly sold a defective product that led to severe burns. In that case, the court might award punitive damages to send a strong message and deter similar behavior in the future.
Our skilled personal injury lawyers can help you understand the types of damages a burn injury victim can recover, evaluate your case to determine which may apply to you, and fight to secure a fair settlement or verdict.
How to Get in Touch With Us
We’re here to support you throughout your burn injury case. You can reach us easily by calling (718) 808-6409 to speak directly with one of our experienced attorneys, or by filling out our contact form.
We offer a free consultation to review your case and explore your options, so don’t hesitate to contact our injury law firm today to begin your path to justice.
Meet Your New York City Burn Injury Lawyers
Paul Ajlouny
Paul Ajlouny is a dedicated personal injury attorney who has successfully represented clients in various personal injury matters across New York, including slip and falls, auto accidents, and pedestrian accidents.
Paul is known for his commitment to providing individualized attention, ensuring that each client receives the guidance and support they need throughout the legal process.
A graduate of St. John’s University, Paul began his career as an associate at the esteemed law firm of Daniel Galinson and has since built a reputation for exemplary representation and tenacious advocacy.
His firm has recovered over $150,000,000 on behalf of clients, thanks in no small part to Paul’s tireless approach to securing favorable outcomes by fighting hard for his clients during their most challenging times.
Michael Levitz
Michael Levitz is a highly regarded personal injury attorney known for his litigation expertise and dedication to his clients. Michael views himself not just as an attorney but as a personal advocate for those in need of support.
Michael’s determination and competitive spirit, honed from his background as a former athlete, equip him to tackle even the most challenging cases with his persistence, often going to court to secure fair settlements rather than settling for less.
Michael also prioritizes open communication and educating clients about the legal process. He is proactive in keeping clients informed and involved by providing his cell phone number to remain easily and directly accessible.
Together, Paul Ajlouny and Michael Levitz offer a combination of experience, dedication, and personal attention to help you understand your rights in a burn injury case and pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Our New York City Fire Injury Attorneys Can Help
Dealing with the aftermath of serious burn injuries can be difficult, but our lawyers are here to support you through each step of the process.
Suing for the loss of a loved one
If a fire has tragically taken the life of a loved one, we can help you pursue a wrongful death claim.
This type of lawsuit seeks compensation for the loss experienced by family members, covering expenses such as funeral costs and lost wages, as well as less tangible suffering like loss of companionship.
Recovering lost wages
If your injury has forced you to miss work or has impacted your ability to earn in the future, we can help you recover lost wages, including compensation for the time you have missed at work and potential future earnings if your injury will impact your career long-term.
Help with medical bills
Our NYC burn injury attorneys work to ensure that your medical expenses are covered. We can assist with recovering costs for emergency care, hospitalization, surgeries, ongoing treatments, and any necessary rehabilitation.
Addressing chronic pain and diminished quality of life
We understand that burn injuries can lead to long-term physical and emotional suffering. We aim to secure compensation for chronic pain, diminished quality of life, and other non-economic damages that impact your daily life and well-being.
Property damage
If a fire has caused damage to your property, we can help you seek compensation for repairs or replacement. Property damage includes both damage to any personal property and structural damage to your home or business.
Emotional recovery and dealing with scarring or disfigurement
The emotional and psychological impact of burn injuries can be significant. We provide support for burn injury claims related to emotional distress, scarring, and disfigurement, helping you obtain compensation for mental anguish and changes to your appearance.
Potential punitive damages
In cases where the responsible party’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless, we may pursue punitive damages, which are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
Understanding modified comparative fault
If you are partially at fault for the incident, New York’s modified comparative fault rule allows you to still recover damages as long as you are less than 50% responsible.
Determining responsibility is complicated, but our lawyers will work to ensure that your compensation is fair and accurately reflects the degree of fault.
Our dedicated team is committed to advocating for your rights and securing the maximum compensation you are entitled to. From handling the intricacies of your claim to advocating for you in court, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
For further guidance on your personal injury case after being burned, contact our New York personal injury lawyers for expert advice
Important Initial Advice!
If you have been injured in a fire, taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your case.
Below are some important advice to help you protect your rights and receive the compensation you deserve:
- Attend medical appointments and follow expert advice: Be sure to attend all scheduled medical appointments and follow your doctor’s advice closely. Doing so will not only help with your recovery but also create a clear record of your injuries and the treatment you’ve received.
- Stay off social media: Avoid posting about your injury or case on social media. Insurance companies and opposing parties might use those posts against you, potentially undermining your claim.
- Don’t accept the first offer from the insurance company: Insurance companies often make quick settlement offers that seem tempting but may not fully cover your damages. It’s important to consult with a lawyer before accepting any offer to ensure that it is fair and adequate.
- Be careful with your language in communications with the insurance company: When communicating with insurance companies, be cautious to avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault or downplaying the severity of your injuries.
- Get in touch with a burn accident lawyer in New York City: Contact an experienced burn accident lawyer from our firm as soon as possible. We can guide you through the legal process and help you understand your rights, thereby ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Following these steps can help protect your case and set you on the path to recovery. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our NYC burn injury lawyers for support.
Deadlines
There are strict deadlines for filing a claim after a burn injury called statutes of limitations. In New York, you typically have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit, but if your case involves a government entity, the deadline can be as short as 90 days to file a notice of claim.
It’s best not to wait too long to start your claim: evidence can get lost, people’s memories can fade, and missing the deadline could mean losing your chance at compensation.
Our personal injury law firm can help you understand the deadlines for your case and make sure that none are missed.
Gathering Evidence
After a burn injury, gathering the following evidence as soon as possible is important to building a strong case:
- Police documentation: If law enforcement was involved, make sure to obtain copies of any reports they filed about the incident.
- Medical records: Keep all your medical records, including diagnoses, treatments, and doctor’s notes. These documents are key to proving the extent of your injuries and the care you have received.
- Eyewitness statements: If anyone witnessed the incident, obtain their contact information and ask them to provide written or recorded statements, which can be valuable in supporting your version of events.
- Expert witness analysis: Your attorney can help arrange analyses from expert witnesses, which are sometimes needed to explain complex issues like the cause of the fire or the long-term impact of your injuries.
- Photo/Video evidence: Visual evidence can include photos or videos of the scene, your injuries, or the conditions that led to the burn, and can be powerful in demonstrating what happened.
- Severity of burns: Documenting the severity of your burns with detailed photos and medical descriptions can help show the full impact of your injury.
When you're trying to heal, collecting evidence can feel overwhelming, but that’s where we step in. Our law firm can take care of gathering and organizing everything you need, so you can focus on what’s really important: getting better.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
When you’re dealing with a burn injury, worrying about legal fees should be the last thing on your mind. That’s why our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, which means that instead of paying upfront or out of pocket, we’re paid a percentage of the settlement or verdict, so we only get paid if we win your case.
Simply put, if we don’t recover money for you, you don’t owe us a dime. We’re committed to fighting for your right to pursue justice and compensation without the stress of financial risk, and our success is directly tied to yours.
Types of Burn Injuries We Typically See
Burn injuries vary widely in severity and type. Here are the types we most frequently encounter:
- 1st-degree burns: These affect only the outer layer of skin known as the epidermis, causing redness and minor pain. They are often treated with over-the-counter remedies and typically heal without significant scarring.
- 2nd-degree burns: Affect both the epidermis and the second layer of skin, or the dermis. They can cause blisters, severe pain, and swelling, and typically require medical treatment to prevent infection and aid healing.
- 3rd-degree burns: Extending through the dermis and affecting underlying tissues, these burns may cause the skin to appear white, charred, or leathery. Extensive medical treatment, sometimes including surgeries like skin grafts, is often required.
- 4th-degree burns: These burns are the most severe type, as they penetrate beyond the skin into muscle, bone, or other tissues. They can cause significant damage and require intensive medical care, often involving surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
- Chemical burns: Resulting from contact with corrosive substances like acids or alkalis, these burns can cause severe damage to the skin and underlying tissues. Immediate medical attention is important to minimize harm.
- Electrical burns: Caused by electric currents passing through the body, these burns can damage internal tissues and organs, not just the skin. They often require specialized medical treatment and monitoring.
- Inhalation burns: These occur when hot gases or toxic chemicals are inhaled, causing damage to the airways and lungs. Inhalation burns can lead to respiratory issues and require immediate medical care.
- Radiation burns: Burns caused by radiation exposure, like from the sun or certain medical treatments, can cause skin damage that may not appear immediately but can have long-term effects.
Each type of burn injury requires specific medical attention and legal considerations. If you have suffered any of these burn injuries, our team is here to support you through your recovery and help you seek appropriate compensation.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries
Here are some common causes of burn accidents in New York State:
- Scalds
- Explosions
- House fires
- Contact burns
- Chemical spills
- Electrical accidents
- Radiation exposure
Knowing what caused your burn injury will help you get the right treatment and compensation. If you have been burned because of any of the above incidents, we are here to guide you through your legal options and provide the support you need.
No matter the cause of your burn injury, we're here for you!
Signs You May Have a Burn Injury
Recognizing the signs of a burn injury can help you get the medical attention you need quickly. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Redness or Discoloration: Skin in the affected area may appear red or discolored.
- Blisters: The presence of blisters can indicate a second-degree burn, which affects deeper layers of skin.
- Pain: Intense pain at the site of the burn is a common symptom, particularly with severe burns.
- Swelling: Inflammation at the sight of the burn is common in all burn types.
- Charred or Leathery Skin: Third-degree burns may cause the skin to look white, blackened, or leathery.
- Peeling Skin: Skin may start to peel away as it heals, particularly in second-degree burns.
- Numbness: Severe burns can sometimes cause numbness or loss of sensation in the affected area.
If you notice any of these signs after an injury, it’s important to seek medical help right away.
Consequences of Burn Injuries in Our Experience
Burn injuries can have far-reaching effects beyond the immediate pain. Here are some common consequences we have encountered:
Physical Scarring
Burn injuries often leave permanent scars, which can be both physically and emotionally distressing. Scars can alter your appearance and might require additional treatments to minimize their visibility, such as surgeries or laser therapy.
Chronic Pain
Many burn survivors experience persistent pain or discomfort long after the initial injury has healed, impacting their ability to perform everyday tasks. Chronic pain may require ongoing medical treatment, including medication and therapy.
Limited Mobility
Severe burns can restrict movement, particularly if they occur on joints or limbs. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be necessary to regain the ability to perform routine activities, such as walking, driving, or even simple tasks like cooking.
Emotional Impact
The trauma of a burn injury, combined with the challenges of recovery, can deeply affect mental well-being. Burn survivors often face significant emotional and psychological challenges as they adjust to their new reality, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Ongoing Medical Costs
The need for long-term medical care, including surgeries, skin grafts, and physical therapy, can create substantial financial burdens. Ongoing expenses can accumulate quickly, especially if the injury requires multiple treatments or specialized care.
Loss of Quality of Life
Burn injuries can dramatically impact your daily activities and overall quality of life. Survivors may struggle with changes to their physical abilities, including discomfort, or emotional distress, all of which can impact one’s ability to work, engage in hobbies, or enjoy life as they once did.
Why Choose Us Over Other New York City Burn Injury Lawyers?
Here’s why we stand out among New York City burn lawyers:
- Specialized expertise: We focus on burn injury cases, bringing deep knowledge and experience to handle your case effectively.
- Personalized service: Our New York fire accident attorneys offer one-on-one attention, ensuring that your unique needs are met with care and dedication.
- Proven track record: Our accomplished personal injury firm has a strong history of achieving substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients.
- Compassionate approach: We provide empathetic support for the physical and emotional challenges you face.
- Thorough preparation: We meticulously gather evidence and work with experts to build a solid case for maximum compensation.
- No upfront fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you only pay if we win your case.
- Local expertise: As NYC-based lawyers, we are well-versed in the necessary local laws, which means we are well-prepared to handle the nuances of your case.
Choosing us means choosing a dedicated team committed to securing the best possible outcome for you. Contact our New York fire accident lawyers today!
Other Locations We Serve
Our experienced personal injury team proudly covers the entirety of New York City and its surrounding areas, so whether you're in Brooklyn, Garden City, Queens, or beyond, we are here to provide dedicated legal support for your burn injury case.
No matter where you are in or around the city, we are ready to assist you with the expertise and care you deserve.
Speak to a New York City Burn Injury Attorney Today!
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Reach out to our experienced New York burn injury attorneys today for a free consultation and personalized legal support.
Call us at (718) 808-6409 or contact us through our website to schedule a free case evaluation. We’re here to fight for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve.
