Burn Injury Lawyer in Fort Worth

Put Years of Experience in Your Corner

Wherever there’s an abundance of heat, there’s always the risk of a burn injury. Burn injuries can be some of the most devastating and impactful injuries you can sustain due to their potentially lifelong consequences, such as chronic pain, infection, major surgeries, or even amputation in extreme cases. Because these personal injuries can be so seriously debilitating, it’s important to ensure that your rights as an injury victim are preserved and that you receive the treatment and compensation you are entitled to.

The skilled team of Fort Worth burn injury attorneys at Law Office of James M. Stanley has helped injured Texans and their families since opening their doors in 1976. We always strive to put the needs and interests of our clients at the forefront of our actions to reach the best possible solution after they’ve suffered a catastrophic injury. 

Call the Law Office of James M. Stanley today at (817) 591-4222 or request a free consultation now. No upfront fees.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries

The American Burn Association estimates that around half a million people are forced to visit the emergency room to receive treatment for a burn injury. While these conditions are not usually fatal, serious burns can result in lingering consequences that may impact you for the rest of your life. In some instances, these consequences can cause a great deal of damage to a victim, meaning victims should not hesitate to seek out legal counsel to start reviewing their legal options.

Understanding the common causes of burn injuries can help individuals and their families take preventative measures and seek proper legal guidance when necessary. For example, fires or open flames are a significant risk factor, particularly in homes with faulty wiring or heating systems. Likewise, hot liquids or steam are often culprits in kitchen or industrial accidents, while electrical shocks can occur due to unsafe equipment or workplace environments. Recognizing these risk factors and maintaining vigilance can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe burn injuries.

Severe burn injuries are frequently caused by:

• Fire or other forms of open flame
• Steam or hot water
• Hot liquids (coffee, soup, etc.)
• Hot objects (metal in ovens, industrial equipment, etc.)
• Electrical shock or electrocution
• Strong chemicals (acids)
• Sun exposure
• Explosions

Individuals who suffer from a catastrophic burn injury will likely have to deal with the effects for a long time going forward. Our attorneys can help you recover compensation for past and future medical treatments you will need, lost wages while you can’t work during your recovery, diminished earning capacity once you have recovered, severe disfigurement, or even the physical pain and mental anguish you may sustain.

Types of Burn Injuries

Beyond conventional categorizations, understanding the unique characteristics of each type of burn is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. First-degree burns, despite being mild, can cause significant discomfort and require immediate cooling to prevent further skin damage. Second-degree burns need more intensive care, often demanding professional medical intervention to avoid infection and minimize scarring. 

The complexities of third-degree burns necessitate specialized medical teams for extensive recovery efforts, which could include multiple surgeries and rehabilitative therapies to restore mobility and function. Addressing chemical and electrical burns requires urgent medical evaluations, given their potential to cause extensive internal harm beyond visible damage.

Burn injuries can vary in severity, and the type of burn determines the level of treatment and recovery needed. Here are the main types:

First-Degree Burns:

• Affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis).
• Commonly caused by mild sunburns or brief contact with hot surfaces.
• Symptoms include redness, swelling, and mild pain.
• These burns generally heal in a few days with minimal medical treatment.

Second-Degree Burns:

• Affect both the outer skin and the deeper layer (dermis).
• Can cause blisters, intense pain, and swelling.
• Often caused by hot liquids, steam, or more severe sun exposure.
• Healing may take weeks, and scarring is possible.

Third-Degree Burns:

• The most severe, affecting all layers of the skin and deeper tissues.
• Can destroy skin, muscle, nerves, and even bone.
• These burns often result in charring or white, leathery skin.
• Treatment may include skin grafts and, in extreme cases, amputations.

Chemical Burns:

• Caused by strong acids or alkalis, such as household cleaners or industrial chemicals.
• These burns can cause severe tissue damage and may require immediate medical care.

Electrical Burns:

• Occur when the body comes into contact with an electrical current.
• Can cause deep internal injuries, affecting organs and muscles.
• Often result in severe burns on the skin and can cause long-term damage.

Many people in Fort Worth suffer burn injuries at work, in apartment complexes, or on busy roadways, and the type of burn they sustain often determines what kind of long-term care they will need. A third-degree or electrical burn can require months of wound care, physical therapy, and time away from work, which is why it is important to document how your injury happened and to speak with a legal professional who understands how to present these medical needs in a claim.

Fire Prevention & Safety Tips for Fort Worth Residents

As a growing metropolitan area, Fort Worth residents are encouraged to adopt proactive fire safety measures. Regularly checking and maintaining smoke detectors in homes and businesses is a vital first step in ensuring early detection of potential fires. Residents should also have an emergency escape plan rehearsed by all family members or occupants of a building. In addition, keeping easily accessible fire extinguishers in key areas, such as the kitchen and garage, can help manage small fires before they escalate.

For those living in older homes, it is particularly crucial to inspect wiring systems for potential hazards. Avoiding the use of unauthorized electrical products and ensuring that all appliances are in good condition can further prevent fires. Regular training sessions and community workshops conducted by local fire departments offer great resources for Fort Worth residents seeking to improve household safety. Encouraging a culture of safety and preparation can significantly mitigate the risk of fires and their associated injuries.

In Fort Worth, many serious fires occur in multi-unit housing, commercial buildings, or on construction sites where several different companies may be responsible for keeping the property safe. When landlords, property managers, or contractors ignore fire codes or fail to maintain basic safety equipment, their choices can expose residents and workers to preventable burn injuries. If your injury occurred in one of these settings, it may be helpful to speak with a legal team that can evaluate whether building owners or other parties failed to meet their obligations under Texas law.

Hospitals & Burn Units Near Fort Worth

Fort Worth's medical community provides access to several specialized burn treatment facilities for residents. The Burn Center at John Peter Smith Hospital is renowned for offering comprehensive care for all severities of burn injuries. Their multidisciplinary team provides advanced treatments, including surgical and non-surgical options, rehabilitation services, and psychosocial support for victims and their families. Another exemplary facility is the Parkland Burn Center in nearby Dallas, which is recognized for its state-of-the-art capabilities and involvement in burn research advancement.

Residents of Fort Worth are also encouraged to reach out to local support organizations like the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. These groups provide ongoing support and resources for burn injury victims, helping to create a supportive network that facilitates both physical and emotional recovery. By accessing these local services, residents can navigate their recovery with the guidance and support of leading health professionals.

After a serious burn, it can be overwhelming to coordinate appointments at a burn center, follow-up visits with specialists, and rehabilitation while also trying to keep up with bills and insurance paperwork. When you work with us, we can help organize the documentation from your treatment at facilities in Fort Worth and Dallas so that the full scope of your medical care is reflected in your claim. This can make it easier to show insurers or a jury why you need compensation that accounts for both your immediate treatment and the ongoing care your doctors recommend.

How Our Firm Handles Fort Worth Burn Injury Claims

When you reach out to us after a burn injury, our first priority is to listen to your story and understand how the incident has affected you and your family. From there, we take a step-by-step approach to investigating what happened, reviewing medical records, and identifying all potential sources of insurance coverage. Because we have handled personal injury matters in Fort Worth and across Texas for decades, we know the practical steps that can make a difference in the outcome of a claim.

As your case progresses, we stay in contact with your medical providers, monitor your recovery, and track the costs associated with your treatment and time away from work. We also gather evidence such as incident reports, photographs, and witness statements to help show how the burn occurred and who may be responsible. If your case requires filing a lawsuit in a local court, such as Tarrant County District Court, we are prepared to draft the necessary documents, handle court deadlines, and represent you at hearings so you do not have to navigate the system alone.

Many clients are understandably worried about talking with insurance adjusters, giving recorded statements, or accepting early settlement offers. We step in to manage these communications on your behalf and to review any offers with you before you make decisions. Our role is to explain your options in clear terms, answer your questions, and help you choose a path that supports both your financial stability and your long-term recovery.

Damages and Long-Term Impact in Burn Injury Cases

Burn injuries often create needs that extend far beyond the first hospital stay, and any claim should reflect those long-term effects. In addition to emergency care, many people require reconstructive surgery, ongoing wound care, or physical and occupational therapy to regain function. There can also be costs related to counseling or support groups as you adjust to changes in appearance, abilities, or daily routines.

When we evaluate a burn injury case, we look at both the financial losses that can be added up and the harder-to-measure ways your life has been changed. Financial losses may include current and future medical bills, lost income if you cannot return to your previous job, or the cost of making your home or vehicle more accessible. We also consider the impact of pain, scarring, and limitations on activities you once enjoyed, which can be significant in severe burn cases.

Because many serious burns in the Fort Worth area happen on job sites, busy roads like I-30 or I-35W, or in rental housing, it is important to understand how different insurance policies might apply. We review the coverage available through auto insurers, homeowners' or commercial property policies, and any applicable workers’ compensation or third-party liability coverage. This careful review helps ensure that you pursue all potential sources of recovery rather than relying on a single insurer to cover every aspect of your losses.

Pursuing Legal Action for Burn Injuries in Fort Worth

Burn injury victims in Fort Worth have the right to pursue legal action when negligence is at play. Understanding Texas laws regarding personal injury claims is essential for navigating the legal system effectively. Victims must establish negligence, proving that another party's action or lack of action directly led to their injury. This could involve unsafe workplace conditions, defective products, or negligent supervision in settings responsible for the injury.

By partnering with Law Office of James M. Stanley, victims receive access to experienced legal advocates who handle all legal proceedings from start to finish. We aim to alleviate the legal burden on victims, allowing them to focus on recovery. Our history in handling complex burn injury claims demonstrates our dedication to securing fair compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Key steps in pursuing a burn injury claim in Fort Worth include:

• Documenting the incident. Gathering photos, reports, and witness information from the scene helps preserve critical details.
• Obtaining medical evaluation. Seeking prompt treatment at a local facility creates records that connect your injuries to the event.
• Identifying responsible parties. Reviewing how the burn occurred can reveal whether employers, property owners, or manufacturers may be liable.
• Reviewing insurance coverage. Assessing available policies helps determine potential sources of compensation.
• Consulting a lawyer. Speaking with a legal professional allows you to understand timelines, evidence needs, and realistic next steps.

When you pursue a claim in Texas, there is a limited period of time to file a lawsuit, so it is important to seek guidance soon after your injury. We can review incident reports, speak with witnesses, and consult with medical professionals to determine who may be responsible and what evidence is needed to support your case. Our goal is to present a clear picture of how the burn has affected your work, family life, and future so that you can seek compensation that reflects your real losses.

Why Choose Law Office of James M. Stanley for Your Burn Injury Claim in Fort Worth?

Choosing Law Office of James M. Stanley for your burn injury claim in Fort Worth means aligning with a firm committed to personalized and compassionate representation. Our extensive experience since 1976 underscores our dedication to protecting the rights of injury victims. We prioritize transparent communication, ensuring clients are informed and supported throughout their legal journey.

Our team carefully examines each aspect of a claim, from evidence gathering to trial preparation, and advocates for fair compensation. Our admission to prestigious forums highlights our history of successful outcomes, reinforcing client confidence in our capabilities. Contact us today for a comprehensive consultation, and allow us to guide you toward a resolution that respects your needs and rights.

FAQ: Fort Worth Burn Injury Lawyer

What Are the First Steps I Should Take After a Burn Injury?

Immediately after suffering a burn injury, prioritize safety and seek medical attention. Evaluate the severity of the burn and apply first aid measures, such as cooling the affected area with water and covering it with a clean cloth. For severe burns, contact emergency services or visit a specialized burn unit for comprehensive medical evaluation and treatment. Receiving prompt medical care reduces the risk of infection and long-term complications.

Once medical needs are addressed, consider consulting with a burn injury attorney to explore your legal options. Gathering evidence related to the cause of the burn, such as defective products or unsafe environments, is crucial in building a strong claim for compensation. Your attorney can guide you through the legal process, ensuring all aspects of your claim are addressed adequately. Act quickly, as there are statutes of limitations on filing personal injury claims in Texas.

How Can I Determine Liability in My Burn Injury Claim?

Determining liability in a burn injury claim requires establishing neglect or fault from another party that led to your suffering. Begin by identifying potential responsible parties, such as employers, manufacturers, property owners, or service providers. Collect evidence showing how their actions or negligence contributed to the occurrence of your injury. Detailed documentation, such as photos, medical records, and witness statements, is crucial for supporting your claims.

Working with an attorney familiar with Texas personal injury laws can greatly assist in determining the liable parties in your specific situation. They possess the knowledge required to analyze evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court. Legal professionals focusing on burn injuries can provide valuable insights and strategies tailored to help you seek fair compensation.

What Compensation Am I Entitled to After a Burn Injury?

Compensation for burn injuries in Fort Worth may encompass various forms of recovery to address both economic and non-economic damages. Economic compensation considers the financial impact of the injury, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages. Non-economic damages cover aspects such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.

Burn injuries often require long-term recovery plans, which can be factored into compensation calculations. Legal representation helps ensure that all potential damages are identified and pursued, enabling victims to focus on rehabilitation without the additional stress of financial strain. An attorney helps to assess the full spectrum of compensable losses based on the specifics of each claim.

Can a Burn Injury Lawyer Help with Insurance Negotiations?

A burn injury lawyer plays an essential role in negotiating with insurance companies to seek fair settlements. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, making legal representation important to achieving equitable compensation. An attorney can communicate your needs, present necessary evidence, and address any discrepancies in the insurer’s assessments, thereby strengthening your position.

Typical insurance negotiations involve the evaluation of liability, the context of the injury, and the resulting damages. By drawing on their experience in similar claims, an attorney can guide negotiation strategies and help protect clients from unjust settlement offers. Their involvement not only streamlines communication but also helps ensure the client's rights and interests are consistently represented.

Get Help From Our Fort Worth Burn Injury Lawyer Today

A serious burn can leave you facing painful treatment, time away from work, and long-term scarring that changes daily life. You shouldn’t have to battle insurance companies or prove what happened while you’re trying to recover.

Talk with a Fort Worth burn injury lawyer who will investigate quickly, document the full impact of your injuries, and fight for the compensation you need for medical care, lost wages, and future treatment. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.

Don't suffer in silence. If you've been burned due to someone else's negligence, contact our legal team or call (817) 591-4222 to get the compensation you deserve.