Burn Injury Lawyers in New York

Severe burn injuries are among the most devastating injuries a person can suffer. Beyond the immediate pain, burn victims often face permanent physical damage, emotional trauma, and lifelong medical care. When these injuries are caused by negligence, unsafe conditions, or defective products, victims and their families deserve accountability and justice.

At Kramer, Dillof, Livingston & Moore (KDLM), our New York burn injury lawyers represent individuals who have suffered catastrophic burn injuries due to preventable acts. We fight to secure full compensation that reflects not only medical costs, but the long-term impact on a victim’s life.

Understanding Burn Injuries and Their Long-Term Impact

Burn injuries vary significantly in severity, but even so-called “moderate” burns can result in serious complications. Medical professionals evaluate burn trauma based on depth and the total body surface area (TBSA) affected.

Types of Burn Injuries

  • Superficial burns: Affect the outer layer of skin and may heal with proper burn care.
  • Partial thickness burns: Damage deeper skin layers and often require advanced medical treatment.
  • Full thickness burns: Destroy all layers of skin and underlying tissue, frequently requiring skin grafting.
  • Extensive burns: Cover a large TBSA and can be life-threatening.

Burned skin is highly vulnerable to infection, scarring, and loss of function. In severe cases, burn patients may experience compartment syndrome, nerve damage, or permanent disfigurement.

Common Causes of Serious Burn Injuries

Burn injuries often occur in situations where safety rules were ignored or hazards were not properly addressed. Common causes include:

  • Fires and explosions in residential or commercial buildings
  • Chemical burns from hazardous substances
  • Electrical burns from exposed wiring or faulty equipment
  • Scalding injuries from overheated liquids or steam
  • Workplace accidents, including construction and industrial sites
  • Defective consumer products or appliances

When these incidents occur due to negligence, victims may have the right to pursue a legal claim.

Medical Treatment for Burn Patients

Severe burn injuries typically require treatment at a specialized burn center, where patients receive comprehensive burn care from multidisciplinary medical teams. Treatment may include:

  • Emergency stabilization and wound management
  • Skin grafting and reconstructive surgeries
  • Treatment for inhalation injuries caused by smoke or toxic fumes
  • Long-term rehabilitation and physical therapy
  • Psychological care to address trauma and emotional distress

The cost of medical care for burn victims can reach millions of dollars over a lifetime, especially when injuries involve a high TBSA burned or result in permanent disability.

When a Burn Injury Becomes a Legal Case?

A burn injury may give rise to a legal claim when it is caused by negligence, such as:

  • Unsafe property conditions
  • Failure to follow fire or safety regulations
  • Defective or dangerous products
  • Employer negligence or lack of workplace safety protections

Burn injury lawsuits seek compensation not only for immediate medical expenses, but also for future care, lost income, pain and suffering, and diminished quality of life.

Why Burn Injury Cases Are Legally Complex?

Burn injury litigation is among the most complex areas of personal injury law. These cases often require:

  • Detailed medical evidence and expert testimony
  • Long-term projections of medical costs and care needs
  • Evaluation of permanent scarring and disfigurement
  • Assessment of psychological trauma and emotional harm

Insurance companies aggressively fight these claims due to their high value. Having experienced trial lawyers is critical.

How KDLM Handles Catastrophic Burn Injury Cases?

KDLM has built a national reputation for handling high-stakes injury cases involving severe trauma. Our approach includes:

  • Working closely with leading medical experts
  • Consulting burn specialists and life-care planners
  • Thorough investigation of liability and negligence
  • Aggressive trial preparation from day one

We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, ensuring maximum leverage whether pursuing settlement or verdict.

Compensation Available in Burn Injury Claims

Depending on the facts of the case, compensation may include:

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Costs of burn center treatment and rehabilitation
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
  • Disfigurement and loss of enjoyment of life
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

Frequently Asked Questions About Burn Injury Lawsuits

  • How serious does a burn injury need to be to file a lawsuit?

Any burn injury caused by negligence may be actionable, especially when it results in permanent damage, extensive medical care, or long-term impairment.

  • How long do I have to file a burn injury claim in New York?

Strict statutes of limitations apply. It is critical to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.

  • What if the burn occurred at work?

You may have both a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party lawsuit, depending on who was responsible.

  • Do burn injury cases always go to trial?

Many cases resolve through settlement, but KDLM prepares every case for trial to ensure the strongest possible outcome.

How Can We Help?

No two burn injuries are the same. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious burn injury due to negligence, you deserve experienced legal representation focused on your recovery and future.

Contact KDLM | Kramer, Dillof, Livingston & Moore for a free and confidential consultation. We will listen carefully, evaluate your case, and explain your legal options with honesty and respect.