Trusted New York Burn Injury Lawyers Serving the Bronx
Burn injuries stand among the most devastating personal injuries, requiring extensive, costly treatment and bearing profound physical and emotional scars. The impact of burn injuries can ripple through lives and families, demanding immediate legal intervention. The Bronx burn injury lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi, P.C. are acutely aware of the hardships faced by those suffering burn injuries due to negligence.
In the Bronx, burn injuries not only disrupt lives but also challenge the spirit of the community. In 2021 alone, roughly 404,000 Americans visited the emergency room due to burns. Information from the American Burn Association (ABA) reveals 3,275 fire/smoke inhalation deaths in 2014. Of those lives lost, 2,745 were due to residential fires, 310 from vehicle crashes, and 220 from other sources.
With a formidable combination of compassion and legal acumen, honed over 80 years of cumulative experience, the team at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi is committed to securing the justice and compensation burn victims deserve. Garnering over $300 million for our clients in various personal injury cases, we offer the Bronx community our unwavering support.
If you or a loved one have been the victim of a burn injury due to negligence, contact our Bronx burn injury lawyers online or call (212) 543-1600 to schedule a FREE consultation. We find ourselves constantly inspired by the strength and resilience of our clients. Let us fight for your rights and help you on the path to recovery.
Types of Burn Injuries You Could Suffer in the Bronx
According to the AMA, “Burn injuries continue to be one of the leading causes of unintentional death and injury in the United States.” They are also among the most horrific and distressing traumas one can endure, inflicting both physical pain and emotional scars.
In the busy borough of the Bronx, the potential for such injuries looms in various forms, from domestic accidents to industrial exposures to car crashes. The mechanisms of burn injuries are as diverse as their outcomes are devastating.
The primary types of burns one might suffer include:
- Thermal Burns: Caused by exposure to high temperatures, these burns can result from contact with open flames, hot liquids, steam, or other sources of intense heat.
- Flash Burns: An explosion or blast, often from flammable liquids or gases, can cause flash burns, affecting exposed skin with intense, immediate heat.
- Electrical Burns: The passage of electric current through the body can cause electrical burns, which may lead to internal damage and require immediate medical attention.
- Chemical Burns: These occur when skin or eyes come into contact with an irritant, such as an acid or a base, causing damage that can range from mild irritation to deep tissue destruction.
- Radiation Burns: Exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or other sources of radiation, including medical imaging or treatment devices, can result in burns that damage the skin.
- Cold Burns/Frostbite: Exposure to extreme cold can lead to frostbite, freezing the skin and underlying tissues, essentially causing burns from the cold.
Each type of burn presents unique challenges and requires specialized treatment. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in seeking appropriate care and legal recourse for injuries sustained due to negligence.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in the Bronx, New York
In the Bronx, residents face a variety of burn injury risks daily. From crowded city streets to quiet neighborhoods, the potential for burn incidents looms. Residents and workers are exposed to numerous hazards that can lead to injuries. The dense population and mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas create a unique set of risks, including:
- Household Accidents: Often involving cooking fires, scalds from hot liquids, electrical faults, and unsafe heating practices, these incidents are tragically common. Increased awareness and prevention measures are imperative.
- Workplace Hazards: The Bronx’s varied industries, from manufacturing to food service to construction, present risks for thermal, chemical, and electrical burns due to improper safety measures or equipment malfunctions. The importance of workplace safety protocols cannot be overstated.
- Traffic Accidents: The borough’s congested roads contribute to car, truck, and motorcycle crashes that can result in fires, exposing drivers and passengers to severe burn injuries.
- Faulty Products: Electrical burns and fires can also result from malfunctioning appliances and electronics, highlighting the role of product safety in preventing burn injuries.
- Electrical Hazards: With an extensive network of electrical infrastructure, the Bronx sees injuries from exposed wires and power line accidents.
By acknowledging these common causes, Bronx residents and workers can better safeguard themselves against the devastating impact of burn injuries. However, as accidents inevitably happen, the assistance of a Bronx burn injury attorney can be invaluable.
Categorizing the Severity of a Burn Injury
Burn injuries are categorized into degrees based on their depth, extent, and the layers of skin or tissue affected. Understanding these degrees helps in assessing the severity and necessary treatment.
First-Degree Burns
These are the least severe, affecting only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). Symptoms include redness, minor inflammation, and pain. Most sunburns fall under this category and can usually be treated at home.
Second-Degree Burns
These burns penetrate deeper, affecting both the epidermis and the second layer of skin (dermis). They cause blisters, severe pain, and swelling. Depending on the size and location, they may require professional medical treatment to prevent infection and minimize scarring.
Third-Degree Burns
This category represents severe injuries affecting the epidermis, dermis, and deeper tissues. They can destroy nerves, resulting in numbness instead of pain. The skin may appear white, charred, or leathery. These burns require immediate medical attention, often including surgery and long-term treatment to manage.
Fourth-Degree Burns
The most severe, these burns extend beyond the skin into muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. Often life-threatening, they require extensive medical intervention and can lead to significant functional and cosmetic impairments.
Prompt and appropriate treatment is critical for all burn injuries to reduce the risk of complications and improve recovery outcomes. The degree of your burn injury significantly impacts the compensation you may be entitled to, reflecting the severity of pain, long-term treatment needs, and any lasting disfigurement or disability.
Long-Term Effects of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries can have profound, long-term effects on an individual’s health and quality of life. Beyond the immediate physical pain and the challenge of recovery, victims may face other issues, including:
- Physical Scarring & Disfigurement: Often the most visible consequence, leaving individuals with lasting reminders of the trauma they’ve endured.
- Emotional & Psychological Distress: Burn injuries can lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD, profoundly impacting a victim’s mental health and well-being.
- Chronic Pain & Reduced Mobility: Damage to muscles, nerves, and bones can result in persistent pain and difficulty moving, affecting daily activities.
- Need for Ongoing Medical Care: Treatments might include surgeries like skin grafts and physical therapy to regain function, all of which can be lengthy and challenging.
- Financial Strain: The cost of medical treatment, coupled with the potential loss of income during recovery, can put significant financial pressure on victims and their families.
For those facing these challenges after a burn injury, seeking the guidance of compassionate burn injury attorneys in New York City is an essential step in securing the compensation needed to support long-term recovery and care.
Establishing Liability After a Burn Injury in the Bronx
Establishing liability after a burn injury in the Bronx involves a meticulous investigation by a seasoned attorney. They will:
- Collect Evidence: Gather medical records, accident reports, and eyewitness statements to build a strong case.
- Identify the Cause: Determine how the burn occurred, whether from a fire, chemical exposure, or electrical malfunction, pinpointing the source.
- Determine Negligence: Show how the defendant’s actions or inactions breached a duty of care, leading to the injury.
- Link Injury to Negligence: Prove the burn injury was a direct result of the defendant’s negligence, not pre-existing or due to another cause.
- Consult Experts: Rely on medical experts and accident reconstructionists to strengthen the claim and clarify complex issues.
A skilled Bronx burn injury lawyer navigates these steps, aiming to secure justice and compensation for the victim’s pain, suffering, and losses.
What Compensation Can I Receive for My Burn Injury?
Victims of burn injuries in the Bronx may be entitled to a range of damages to cover both economic and non-economic losses. These may include:
- Medical Expenses (past and future)
- Reconstructive Surgeries
- Rehabilitation
- In-Home Health Care
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses
- Lost Wages (past and future)
- Lost Earning Capacity
- Pain & Suffering
- Scarring & Disfigurement
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life
- Disability & Permanent Impairment
Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where the defendant’s actions are found to be especially harmful, acting as a punishment and a deterrent against similar future conduct. Unlike compensatory damages, which aim to make the victim whole, punitive damages are designed to penalize egregious wrongdoing. Awarding punitive damages is rare and typically reserved for cases involving malicious intent, fraud, or gross negligence.
What If I’m Partially At Fault?
In New York, even if you’re found partially at fault for your burn injury, you can still recover compensation under the contributory negligence rule (NYS CVP § 1411). However, your compensation amount will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you’re found to be 30% responsible for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by 30%. A New York City burn injury lawyer can help present evidence to establish your level of fault accurately, ultimately maximizing the compensation you can receive.
Verdicts and Settlements
$240,000 - Slip & Fall
To a 66 year old individual “visiting” the college to attend a course on job interviewing skills and resume building, who was injured when he was caused to trip and fall on an exterior walkway outside the school building where he was attending the “meet and greet” session.
$780,000 - Medical Malpractice
New York medical malpractice settlement of $700,000 plus an additional reduction of $80,000 in a worker’s compensation lien (total $780,000). Recovery was obtained for a 29 year old man who suffered a back injury and subsequent fusion surgery while engaging in a box lifting exercise undertaken as part of a work conditioning program at a New York physical therapy facility.
$750,000 - Motor Vehicle Crash
Driver was hit during an attempted lane change on the approach to the George Washington bridge. She required multiple surgeries. She was out of work for 9 months.
How Long Do I Have To File My Burn Injury Claim in NYC?
In New York City, victims of burn injuries generally have 3 years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, as established by NYS CVP § 214. This statute of limitations is crucial because it defines the legal timeframe within which you must act to seek compensation for your injuries. Delaying legal action can result in losing the right to recover damages entirely.
Acting swiftly is also important for the preservation of evidence and to ensure witness testimonies remain accurate and reliable. Given these considerations, consulting with Bronx burn injury lawyers as soon as possible after your injury can help protect your rights and your potential compensation.
How Long Does It Take To Settle a Personal Injury Case in New York?
The duration to settle a personal injury case in New York, including burn injury claims, varies significantly depending on several factors, including:
- Complexity of the case
- Clarity of liability
- Severity of injuries
- Insurance company’s willingness to negotiate
Some cases may settle in a matter of months, while others, especially those that require extensive medical treatment or go to trial, can take several years to reach a resolution. A New York City personal injury lawyer can navigate these intricacies, aiming to expedite the process while ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Can a Lawyer Help with Your Burn Injury Claim?
Handling the aftershock of a burn injury can be incredibly challenging, not only due to the physical pain and emotional distress but also because of the legal complexities involved. A skilled Bronx burn injury lawyer offers invaluable assistance in several key areas:
Assessment
Accurately evaluates the case, identifying the full scope of your injuries and how they impact your life, ensuring all potential avenues for compensation are explored.
Investigation
Conducts a thorough investigation to gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, to build a strong foundation for your claim.
Negotiation
Utilizes extensive experience and negotiation skills to deal with insurance companies, aiming to secure a fair settlement that covers all your needs without going to trial.
Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney is prepared to take your case to court, advocating passionately on your behalf to achieve the best possible outcome.
Guidance
Provides knowledgeable legal advice and emotional support throughout the process, helping you make informed decisions and offering peace of mind during a difficult time.
Choosing Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi means selecting a team that embodies courage, justice, and a deep commitment to our clients. With a proven track record in handling burn injury cases in the Bronx and beyond, we bring over 80 years of combined experience, dedication, and a personalized approach to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
I am delighted to provide this testimonial for Mr. DiGirolamo. His representation of me during my case was unflagging over its four-year duration. He kept me informed, and prepared for every eventuality as the case progressed.
He understood my fears and pain, and saw to it that Workmans Comp provided support for me until my civil case was settled. He prepared me substantially whenever necessary. I was very grateful for his understanding of the disastrous effect my accident had on every aspect of my life.
He was always supportive and kind personally, and totally professional. He reminded me to be realistic about the eventual outcome, and advised me as to the importance of my demeanor and attitude.
Everyone I came in contact with at the office was polite and helpful, in particular Marisol Suarez, Mr. DiGirolamo’s paralegal assistant. I will always be grateful for the way my case was handled.
The Office of Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi have been so helpful in my case that I just wanted to stress to anyone needing an attorney who has been in an accident that this office is the best. From the beginning of my case I was treated as number one. Mr. Maggiano and staff always kept me informed of the entire process of my case. I even had a driver, Juan, from their office, take me to my medical appointments because I no longer have an automobile. It just made me feel so much more relaxed. This is a law firm makes you feel right at home as soon as you come in. There were many times that I had questions and I would speak to Mariel, Mr. Maggianos’s paralegal and she would always be there to help
We hired Chris DiGirolamo as our attorney after Mike suffered a life changing injury at work. From the time we met Chris we felt we can trust him to work in the best interest for Mike’s needs. Chris is very down to earth and we felt comfortable whenever we met with him. He spoke to us so we always understood what was going on. He never threw around legal jargon that we would not be able to understand. He was always willing to ensure we knew exactly how our case was proceeding. Chris showed humanity in dealing with Mike’s Injuries and understanding of Mike’s unwillingness to accept some of the changes in his life.
Chris’s high level of energy and desire to bring a case to the best possible results were evident from day one. Our case was settled but of court with the help of a mediator and Chris was by our side explaining what was going on every step of the way. His preparation throughout the case was evident as he spoke before the mediator. It was a pleasure to watch. Chris at work and know he was working for us. He is tough and stubborn when necessary. We were also impressed by the respect shown to Chris by the retired judge we worked with as well as other lawyers. Chris was only happy with this case when he knew we had a settlement that we were very impressed with.
Contact Our Dedicated Bronx Burn Injury Lawyers Today!
In the wake of a burn injury, the path to recovery can seem daunting and overwhelming. The Bronx burn injury lawyers at Maggiano, DiGirolamo & Lizzi are ready to shoulder the legal burden, allowing you to focus on healing.
Our committed team brings empathy, experience, and unwavering support to every case, advocating for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call (212) 543-1600 today to schedule a FREE and confidential case evaluation. Together, we can take the journey towards healing and justice.
