Burn injuries can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. They often require long-term medical treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, and can leave lasting scars. In Michigan, people who suffer burn injuries caused by someone else’s negligence may be able to recover compensation through a personal injury claim.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can happen in many ways. Below are some of the most common causes:

• Car accidents
• Chemical burns from cleaners and other hazardous substances
• Defective exploding products, such as faulty appliances or electronics
• Scalding burns caused by hot liquid spills or malfunctioning water heaters

If another party’s carelessness leads to a serious burn injury, they may be legally responsible for the damages.

Classifications of Burn Injuries

Medical professionals classify burn injuries based on severity. Understanding these categories helps explain the level of treatment and long-term impact a victim may face.

• First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin and typically heal with minimal medical treatment.
• Second-degree burns reach deeper layers of skin and often cause blistering, swelling, and significant pain. Treatment generally requires more extensive care and may result in permanent scars.
• Third-degree burns destroy all layers of the skin and sometimes affect muscle, fat, or bone. These burns often require surgeries, such as skin grafts, and can lead to lifelong disfigurement and disability.

The more severe the burn, the higher the medical costs and long-term challenges a victim may face.

Types of Damages

Michigan law allows burn injury victims to pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. These may include:

• Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, scar revisions, medication, and future treatment.
• Lost wages and income: Wages missed during recovery and any impact on future earning ability.
• Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional trauma, and reduced standard of living.
• Disfigurement or scarring: Permanent changes to appearance that affect daily life.

Every case is unique, and the amount of compensation will depend on the severity of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s life.

Time Limits for Filing a Claim

Michigan has strict deadlines, known as the statute of limitations, for filing personal injury claims. In most cases, burn injury victims have three years from the date of the injury to take legal action. Waiting too long could mean losing the right to recover damages.

Conclusion

Burn injuries can change lives in an instant, often leaving lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges. While compensation cannot undo the harm, it can help ease the financial burden and provide access to the care and resources needed for recovery.