Oakland Burn Injury Attorney
Suffered a Burn Injury at Work?
If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury while working, you understand the pain, frustration, and complications that can arise. Burn injuries, particularly in the workplace, can be debilitating, leaving lasting physical and emotional scars. At Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers, we are dedicated to helping those who have suffered burn injuries in the workplace seek justice and the compensation they deserve. If you’ve experienced a burn injury on the job, having an experienced Oakland burn injury lawyer by your side can significantly improve the outcome of your case.
To schedule a free consultation, call (888) 740-6434 or contact us online today.
What is a Burn Injury?
A burn injury occurs when the skin or other tissues are damaged by heat, chemicals, electricity, radiation, or friction. Burns are classified into three main categories based on the severity of the damage:
- First-Degree Burns: These are the least severe, affecting only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). The skin may appear red and swollen, but there is little or no long-term damage.
- Second-Degree Burns: These burns extend beyond the epidermis to the second layer of skin (dermis). They can cause severe pain, blistering, and swelling.
- Third-Degree Burns: The most severe type, third-degree burns damage all layers of the skin and may affect deeper tissues, including muscles and bones. These burns often require surgical treatment, such as skin grafts, and can cause permanent scarring and disfigurement.
In a workplace setting, burn injuries can range from minor first-degree burns to life-threatening third-degree burns. Regardless of the severity, a burn injury can have long-lasting effects, requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Common Causes of Workplace Burn Injuries
Burn injuries in the workplace can result from a wide variety of accidents, depending on the type of industry and work environment. Some of the most common causes of burn injuries on the job include:
- Chemical Exposure: Many workplaces, such as factories, laboratories, and warehouses, involve the use of hazardous chemicals. Accidental spills or exposure to corrosive or flammable chemicals can cause serious burns.
- Fire or Explosion: Construction sites, kitchens, factories, and even offices can be at risk for fires or explosions. Workers may suffer burn injuries if they are exposed to an open flame, faulty electrical equipment, or volatile chemicals that ignite.
- Hot Surfaces and Equipment: Burn injuries can occur when workers come into contact with hot surfaces or machinery. This can include anything from touching a heated pipe in a factory to working near hot equipment in kitchens or industrial settings.
- Electrical Burns: Electrical burns happen when a worker comes into direct contact with an electrical source, such as exposed wiring or faulty electrical equipment. Electrical burns can be particularly dangerous as they may also result in cardiac arrest or internal injuries.
- Steam Burns: In industries where workers handle pressurized equipment, such as power plants or manufacturing facilities, steam burns can occur. A sudden release of hot steam can cause severe burns to exposed skin.
- Arc Flash Burns: Workers in the electrical, construction, and industrial sectors are often exposed to electrical arc flashes. These high-intensity bursts of electricity can result in severe burns, hearing loss, and vision damage.
Long-Term Effects of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries can have lasting physical, emotional, and financial impacts. The severity of the burn, along with the type of treatment required, plays a significant role in determining the long-term consequences.
Physical Effects:
- Scarring and Disfigurement: Even after healing, burn victims are often left with permanent scars or disfigurement. Severe burns can lead to significant changes in appearance and may require cosmetic surgery or skin grafts.
- Loss of Function: Severe burns can result in the loss of mobility, particularly when they affect joints or muscles. Scarring and contractures can make it difficult for workers to perform certain tasks.
- Chronic Pain: Burn injuries often result in long-term pain. Even after the wound heals, the victim may experience ongoing discomfort, which may require pain management and physical therapy.
Psychological Effects:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Suffering a burn injury, especially in a traumatic workplace accident, can lead to PTSD. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, and flashbacks to the event.
- Body Image Issues: Burn victims, particularly those with visible scarring or disfigurement, often experience a loss of self-esteem and body image issues. These issues can lead to emotional distress and social withdrawal.
Financial Effects:
- Medical Costs: Treatment for burn injuries often involves extensive medical procedures, including surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation. These costs can quickly add up, leading to significant financial strain.
- Lost Wages: Burn injuries can prevent workers from returning to their jobs for an extended period. This lost income can cause financial hardship for the worker and their family.
- Reduced Earning Capacity: In some cases, burn injuries may leave victims permanently unable to perform their previous job duties, resulting in reduced earning potential for the future.
Securing Workers' Compensation After a Burn Injury
If you suffer a burn injury in the workplace, you may be eligible for workers' compensation benefits. These benefits are designed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs incurred as a result of your injury. However, the process of securing workers' compensation can be complex, especially when dealing with a severe injury.
An experienced Oakland burn injury attorney from Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers can help you navigate the workers' compensation claims process, ensuring that you receive the full benefits you are entitled to. Our legal team will work closely with you to gather the necessary documentation, including medical records and witness statements, to support your claim.
Additionally, in cases where third-party negligence caused your burn injury, you may be entitled to pursue a personal injury lawsuit outside of workers' compensation. This could provide additional compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation—contact us at Pacific Workers', The Lawyers for Injured Workers by calling (888) 740-6434.
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Pacific Workers' Comp is one of the best places to get help from when you need help with an injury from work!
“Iana and Sergio are very helpful, and Pacific Workers' Comp is one of the best places to get help from when you need help with an injury from work they have been helping me out through my trying time and doing a damn good job with dealing with stuff that I can't handle and I really appreciate all their help if you ever need help with an injury at work this is the place to go.”
Lamar B. Santa Clara, CA -
Bilal is very professional, caring and committed to his clients!
“My lawyer Bilal took the time out on a late Friday afternoon to meet with me and answer some questions that I had. Who stays late and meets with you on a Friday afternoon? Very few do, Bilal does. It speaks to his professionalism, caring, and commitment to his clients. Which creates a culture value at PWC. This is only one example of my experience with them, there are many more just like this.”
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“My attorney Jason Insdorf exuded complete confidence in my case and made me feel like he really understood what I've been through (didn't hurt to read about his extensive credentials and expertise specific to my case). Karla Ortega made me feel at ease, listening intently when I explained details dating back 12+ years. Also, I was very impressed by the compassion, communication, and overall professionalism.”
Matthew U. Modesto, CA -
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After Pacific Worker's Compensation started handling my case, I started getting the respect of an injured worker and not just a number.
“My caseworker is amazing. She is quick to respond to my messages and concerns. Before contacting Pacific Worker's Compensation, I was getting the run around with my doctors and worker's compensation insurance for my employer. After Pacific Worker's Compensation started handling my case, I started getting the respect of an injured worker and not just a number.”
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Bilal is always kind, professional, compassionate and explains everything thoroughly!
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Workers' Comp FAQ
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Are Independent Contractors Eligible for Workers’ Compensation Benefits?
Independent contractors are generally not eligible for workers' compensation benefits because they are not considered employees under California law. However, some employers may misclassify employees as independent contractors. If you believe you are misclassified, consult with a legal professional to assess your situation.
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Do independent contractors get workers’ compensation in California?
No, most independent contractors are not covered by workers’ compensation insurance that is provided by their employer. The law does not require most employers to offer this sort of employment benefit to independent contractors. To get workers’ comp as an independent contractor, you will usually have to purchase a policy on your own.
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Am I Eligible for Workers’ Compensation?
In California, all employees are eligible for workers’ compensation with very few exceptions. If you are classified as an “employee” (rather than an “independent contractor”), you are eligible to receive benefits. This is true regardless of how many employees your employer has, how many hours you work, how much you make, whether you work part-time or full-time, or whether you are a seasonal worker. Additionally, undocumented workers are also eligible for workers’ compensation granted they meet all other eligibility requirements. In contrast, independent contractors and certain other workers, including some volunteers, household workers who are employed by a family member, and others, are not able to file for workers’ compensation benefits.
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My Employer Said That I’m an Independent Contractor, Not a Regular Employee, so I Can’t Get Benefits. Is This True?
You’re not necessarily an independent contractor by law if the nature of your job doesn’t fit the description, an attorney may help analyze your situation and guide you in this matter. There are high chances of contractors being eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, so it’s always worth trying.
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Are There Other Benefits I Can Receive If I’m Unable to Work During the Off-Season Because of an Injury?
If you're unable to work during the off-season because of a work-related injury, you may be eligible for additional benefits, such as those provided by the Employment Development Department (EDD). It's important to explore all available resources to support yourself during your recovery.
