Hundreds of thousands of people seek medical treatment for their burn injuries every year. When people go through these wounds, they encounter physical challenges. Other than that, they also experience psychological injuries that require equal treatment.
For tenants who may have encountered burn injuries due to landlord negligence, you can seek compensation claims for what you went through. Here are some things that can help you manage the process better and much faster to acquire the treatment you deserve.
What Are Burn Injuries?
Burn injuries are physical injuries that occur when a person comes into contact with fire or very hot objects. The severity of the burn wound depends on the heat source and the amount of time it was exposed to the burn.
In more severe cases, burns can cause a person to go into shock, leading to death in the worst cases.
What Are the Types of Burn Injuries?
Health professionals classify burn injuries into three types. Here’s how to define them:
1. First-Degree Burns
First-degree burns are the least severe types. They can heal on their own without any surgery. The victim will experience pain and swelling, but the skin is not damaged. These burns usually look like sunburn or scalds. Direct or indirect contact with heat often causes them.
2. Second-Degree Burns
Second-degree burns affect the outer layer of the skin. The damaged skin turns into red and white patches. When you touch it, the skin often feels hard. If a person experiences a second-degree burn, they will experience pain, redness, and a burning sensation.
3. Third-Degree Burns
Third-degree burns are the most severe kind. They affect the skin, muscles, and bones. The layer of skin is destroyed and becomes black. They feel like a deep burn because the tissues under the skin are severely damaged.
Victims who suffer from third-degree burns experience the effects on the blood vessels, bones, and nerve endings. In many cases, victims experience a loss of sensation in the affected area.
What Are the Ways Tenants Can Suffer from Burn Injuries?
Burn injuries may arise from flames, hot objects, chemical explosions, scalding liquids, steam, and electricity. Tenants may encounter burn injuries in their apartment, condominium, or home, through the following problems:
- Faulty electrical wirings
- Malfunctioning electrical outlets
- Defective appliances like refrigerators, stoves, and microwave ovens
- Broken furnaces or water heaters
- Overloaded electrical outlets
- Improperly maintained air conditioning systems
What Are the Responsibilities of Landlords Regarding Burn Injuries?
In a rental agreement, one of the primary responsibilities of landlords is to assure that the property is safe and complies with local laws, building codes, and health codes. These obligations include installing smoke detectors, smoke alarms, anti-electric shock devices, safe heating, and cooling equipment. They must also conduct regular fire inspections, especially for apartment complexes and condominiums.
Final Thoughts
If you are a tenant who sustained burn injuries due to your landlord’s negligence, you could have compensation claims against them. You should consider seeking legal advice to know what you can do to hold them accountable and get fair compensation.
Are you looking for a fire accident lawyer who can help you with your case? Book a consultation at the law firm of Ronemus & Vilensky. Our team of burn injury attorneys in New York City can help you with legal guidance and counsel, including ways to recover financial compensation for your injuries. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more!