Determining Who’s Liable When a Fire Causes a Personal Injury

Fire is easily one of the most alarming causes of personal injury.  It can take lives, maim its victims, and cause unbearable pain and suffering.  Burns themselves can come from a variety of sources.  In summertime, firecrackers are a common source of burn injury.  However, burns can also come from building fires and vehicle fires.  They may occur as the result of explosions or malfunctioning products.  Burns can also arise from scalding liquids and chemical exposure.

Treatment for burn injuries can be very extensive.  The Burn Center at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston is the only New Jersey hospital that is a designated burn treatment facility.  Their website includes many safety tips on avoiding burn injuries.  It also summarizes first aid tips as Cool, Cover and Call.  Burns should be cooled with tepid to cool water.  They should not be treated with butter or ointments.  Any material contacting the burn should be removed.  If at all possible, the area should be rinsed under the water for up to ten minutes.  It should then be covered with a clean and dry material.  It is also important to call for medical evaluation and treatment.

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is the recognized source on compiling fire analysis research.  In 2012, they did a report based on information submitted by fire departments that responded to their National Fire Experience Survey.  Nationally, there were an estimated 2,855 causalities related to fire.  There were more than 16,500 people injured in fires.  Neither of these numbers included individuals who were involved in fighting the fires.  A great majority of the fires occurred in residential dwellings.

What causes fires at home?  Obviously, the kitchen is often a source of burn injuries.  Someone may forget something on the stove.  Grease fires are often common initiators.  Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for someone to fall asleep with a lit cigarette in hand.  However, there are other potential hazards.  Heating equipment can malfunction and cause serious injuries.  It can even explode.  Electrical equipment may pose a risk.  Frayed wires or overloaded outlets may cause fire.  Unmonitored candles or lit incense can initiate the spread of flames.  It is also important to store flammable liquids with caution.  Depending on the season, the family barbecue or the Christmas tree could be responsible for starting a fire.  Malfunctioning tools can cause problems.  Even something as simple as a hair dryer can shoot out flames.

If you are a loved one are injured in a fire, it is important to seek the advice of an attorney experienced in personal injury.  A law firm such as the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone will investigate the cause of the fire and ascertain whether there is a responsible party for the injuries.  They will help secure payment for medical bills and determine eligibility for additional compensation. If this has happened to you, we urge you to contact us today for a free consultation.

Share this Post