Sustaining workplace burn injuries can be a devastating experience. It brings about psychological and social challenges besides pain. Workers’ compensation laws require employers to have coverage to ensure employees who sustain injuries on duty are compensated for their damages.
Workers’ compensation follows a no-fault system, meaning you do not have to prove fault to receive compensation. In some cases, however, you might need to hire a workers’ compensation lawyer to help you with the claim, e.g., if it is denied or your employer retaliates.
At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, we have handled many cases of workplace accidents, including burn injuries. If you or a loved one sustained a burn injury at work, our team can review your case and advise you on your legal options.
Common Types of Workplace Burn Injuries
Workers are exposed to the risk of various types of burns, depending on the nature of their job, circumstances, and equipment used. Burns can be caused by flames, steam, hot liquid or object, electricity, chemicals, or radiation exposure.
Common types of burn injuries include:
- Chemical: Exposure to chemicals such as sulfuric acid, gasoline, or paint thinner can cause burns on the skin, eyes, lungs, and other parts or organs of the body.
- Cryogenic: These are cold burns, usually caused by exposure to low temperatures, such as liquified gasses and coolants used in refrigeration units and engines.
- Electrical: Occurs when electricity comes into contact with the body and the current flows through, resulting in tissue damage.
- Radiological: This type of burn is caused by exposure to radiation, e.g., x-rays, ultraviolet light, and radioactive materials.
- Thermal: Caused by exposure to heat such as open flames, steam, and hot liquids and objects
If you have sustained burns at work, your compensation will depend on the severity and impact on your life.
- First-degree burns: Are superficial, affecting only the top layer of the skin (epidermis).
- Second-degree burns: Damage the top two layers of the skin (epidermis and dermis).
- Third-degree burns: Affect the top layers of the skin plus the underlying fatty tissue.
- Fourth-degree burns: Are more severe, going deeper past the skin and the underlying tissue, and may damage the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and bones.
Industries Most At-Risk of Workplace Burns
Burn injuries can occur in any industry, but some have higher risks due to the nature of work plus the substances and equipment used. Industries most at-risk include:
- Construction: Workers are mostly exposed to burns from chemicals, electrical wiring, and hot surfaces.
- Electricity: The risk of electrical burns is high among electricity industry workers.
- Firefighting: Firefighters are at a higher risk of sustaining burns from open flames, hot objects, and explosions.
- Foodservice: Chefs, bakers, and other workers are more prone to burns from steam, liquids, and hot surfaces.
- Manufacturing: Workers in the manufacturing industry are exposed to different burn hazards such as chemical, radiation, thermal, electrical, and cryogenic.
- Transportation: Truck operators and mechanics are more prone to sustaining thermal burns from contact with hot objects and liquids.
Possible Workers’ Compensation Benefits for Burns at Work in Greenville, SC
If you have sustained a burn injury at work in Greenville, SC, you may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits, depending on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life. You could receive damages to cover for:
- Medical expenses for current and future treatment (emergency room, hospitalization, doctor’s visit, surgery, etc.)
- Permanent disability benefits
- Compensation for lost time
Families who have lost a loved one due to a burn injury at work can also claim death benefits for qualifying dependents.
How Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm Can Help with Your Burn Injury Claim
If you are facing challenges obtaining compensation for your burn injuries, a workplace burn injury attorney can assist. Maybe your claim has been denied, your employer is trying to fire you, or a third party was at fault for the accident, and you wish to sue them for misconduct.
At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, we can help you explore your legal options and fight for your rights. Once we determine your claim has merit, we gather the necessary evidence and negotiate for a settlement. If the claim does not settle, we can advise you on the viability of going to trial and represent you.
Contact a Workplace Burn Injury Attorney in Greenville, SC Today!
If you have sustained burns at work, you are eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. In case you are having challenges pursuing a settlement, our team can help you. At Dan Pruitt Injury Law Firm, we are experienced in representing clients who have been involved in workplace accidents. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
FAQs About Burn Injuries at Work
Does workers’ compensation cover scarring?
Yes. If you sustain serious burn scars, you may be entitled to additional compensation. This may include permanent scarring on the face, neck, head, or any other body part exposed during employment.
Can my employer fire me for filing a workers’ compensation claim?
The law prohibits employers from retaliating against employees who seek workers’ compensation benefits after being injured. If your employer tries to fire you, you have a right to sue them.
Who is eligible for workers’ compensation benefits?
Any employee engaged through appointment, apprenticeship, or contract of hire qualifies for workers’ compensation benefits. However, the benefits are only available to employees whose employer is legally required to have the coverage.