How Much Is a Burn Injury Claim Worth?
Burn injuries are among the most painful and devastating types of injuries a person can experience. If you have suffered a burn injury due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to compensation. So, how much is a burn injury claim worth? It is difficult to make an accurate prediction as to what your burn injury settlement will be. The value of a burn injury claim will vary depending on the specific facts of the case. If you have suffered a burn injury, you should consult a skilled personal injury attorney who can evaluate your case and determine the potential value of your claim. However, an attorney cannot guarantee you a certain compensation amount. All they can do is give you an estimate of how much you can expect to recover.
Factors That Influence the Value of a Burn Injury Claim
Several factors can influence the value of a burn injury claim, including the following;
The severity of the Burn Injury
Burn injuries differ in severity. The more severe the burn injury, the higher the compensation. Burn injuries are categorized into four degrees, as discussed below;
- First-degree burns: These are the least severe of all categories of burns. They only affect the skin’s surface layers. A claim for a first-degree burn may not be worth as much as a claim for a more severe burn injury.
- Second-degree burns: These burns affect the outermost and deeper layers of the skin.
- Third-degree burns: These burns destroy all the skin layers. These burns can even damage nerve tissues. Third-degree burns may require surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation.
- Fourth-degree burns: These are the most severe type of burn injury. They extend beyond the skin and underlying tissues to involve deeper structures such as muscles, tendons, and bones.
Compensatory Damages
A burn injury settlement will cover economic and non-economic damages, also known as compensatory damages. Therefore, the total compensatory damages incurred are a significant factor in determining the value of your burn injury claim. Economic damages for a burn victim include medical expenses, lost wages, and reduced earning capacity. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering and mental distress.
Punitive Damages
Under Florida law, punitive damages are only awarded in cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct since they are intended to punish the liable party and not compensate the victim. An award of punitive damages can significantly increase the value of your burn injury claim.
Impact on Daily Life
The extent to which a burn injury impacts a person’s life can affect the value of the claim. The greater the impact a burn injury has on your daily life, the higher the compensation.
The Culpability of the Defendant
Under the comparative negligence rule, if you are partially at fault for your injury, your compensation is reduced based on your percentage of fault. Therefore, the less your percentage of fault, the higher the compensation.
Contact Us for Legal Help
Our Miami personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm can help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve for your burn injury. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville, Ocala, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Myers, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Naples, and Melbourne areas.