Third-degree burns are among the most devastating injuries a person can endure. Unlike minor burns that affect only the outer layers of skin, third-degree burns penetrate deep into the tissue, often causing nerve damage, permanent scarring, and serious complications. In many cases, victims require extensive medical treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, and lifelong care.
If you or a loved one has suffered severe burns in Georgia due to another party’s negligence, understanding the long-term medical costs and available compensation is essential to securing the financial resources needed for recovery. Here, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry explain.
The Long-Term Medical Costs of Third-Degree Burns
The treatment and recovery process for severe burns is extensive, often requiring multiple stages of care. The financial burden can be overwhelming, especially when the injury results in permanent disability or disfigurement.
Some of the most significant medical expenses include:
- Emergency and Critical Care
Immediate treatment in a specialized burn unit is often necessary to stabilize the patient and prevent infections. Intensive care, IV fluid replacement, and pain management are essential in the early stages of recovery.
- Skin Grafts and Surgical Procedures
Many burn victims require multiple skin grafts to replace damaged tissue. Reconstructive surgery may be needed to restore mobility and function in affected areas.
- Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
Extensive therapy is often required to regain movement and strength, especially when burns affect the hands, arms, or legs. Patients may need ongoing occupational therapy to relearn daily activities.
- Infection Treatment and Wound Care
Third-degree burns leave the body vulnerable to severe infections, which require long-term antibiotics and specialized care. Regular wound cleaning and dressing changes can continue for months after the initial injury.
- Psychological and Emotional Support
The emotional trauma associated with burn injuries can lead to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Counseling and support groups help patients cope with the long-term effects of their injuries.
- Prosthetics and Assistive Devices
If a burn leads to amputation or loss of function, prosthetics and adaptive equipment may be necessary for daily living. The cost of these devices and replacements over time can add up significantly.
Pursuing Compensation for Burn Injuries
When severe burns result from another party’s negligence—such as a workplace hazard, unsafe premises, or a defective product—victims may have legal options to seek financial recovery.
Potential damages include:
- Medical Expenses – Covering emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings – Compensation for income lost during recovery and any impact on future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Addressing the physical and emotional trauma caused by the injury.
- Disfigurement and Permanent Disability – Additional compensation for the lasting effects of scarring or loss of function.
Burn injury cases require careful investigation and strong legal advocacy. At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we understand the lasting impact of third-degree burns and work tirelessly to ensure that victims receive the full compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a severe burn due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation. We may be able to help you secure the financial support needed for medical treatment and long-term care.