Serious burns can result from all kinds of accidents. They could occur due to an oilfield explosion, after a chemical spill or after petrol sets alight in a car wreck. Whatever their cause, the effects can be devastating.
Doctors separate burns into three types: First-degree, second-degree and third-degree, with third-degree burns being the most serious as it involves damage to underlying muscle, tendons and bones. The effect on you will also depend on what percentage of your body is affected.
Damage that is more than skin deep can affect your ability to perform actions that, until the accident, you could do without a second thought. This could affect your ability to work as well as to enjoy life. It can also bring excruciating pain and leave you at severe risk of infection.
Do not discount the psychological damage
If you chat with burns survivors, many will tell you how they still struggle with other people’s reactions to them. Many people seem to find it hard not to stare or comment or shirk away from someone with visible burn scars. Knowing that people now you see as different can hurt, as can seeing yourself differently when you look in the mirror.
Some people cope with this better than others, but in some cases, it can have a major psychological effect. As may the accident itself, with flashbacks to the event being a real problem for some people.
It’s important not to underestimate the effect burns from an accident could have on your life when seeking compensation. Getting experienced legal help will be crucial to examine how much you may need throughout your lifetime as a result.