Among the Most Painful and Life-Altering Injuries

Serious burns are among the most devastating injuries a person can suffer. They cause excruciating pain, require repeated surgeries and skin grafts, and frequently leave permanent scarring, disfigurement, and functional limitations. The recovery is long and the psychological toll — anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress — is profound. Compensation must reflect all of it.

How Burn Injuries Are Assessed

Burns are classified by depth — first, second, third, and fourth degree — and by the percentage of total body surface area (TBSA) affected. Deeper burns and larger surface areas mean greater risk, more extensive treatment, and more permanent consequences, including the need for grafting and reconstructive surgery. We work with burn specialists, plastic surgeons, and life-care planners to document the full extent and lifetime impact of the injury.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries

  • Motor-vehicle collisions and fuel-fed fires.
  • Defective products — appliances, electronics, and lithium-battery fires.
  • Scalding from hot liquids or steam, including in commercial premises.
  • Electrical burns and contact with live wiring.
  • Chemical burns from hazardous substances.
  • Fires caused by negligent property maintenance or code violations.

The responsible party may be a negligent driver, a product manufacturer, a property owner or occupier, or another at-fault party — and more than one may share liability.

Catastrophic Impairment and Enhanced Benefits

Severe burns can meet the SABS definition of catastrophic impairment — for example, through the level of whole-person impairment they produce or their effect on function — which unlocks substantially higher medical/rehabilitation and attendant-care limits. Where a burn arises from a motor-vehicle accident, we pursue that designation alongside the tort claim.

Scarring and disfigurement, particularly to the face and hands, are significant and distinct heads of damage. So is the psychological harm that so often accompanies a serious burn. We ensure both are properly documented and valued.

Compensation for Burn Survivors

A burn claim may recover pain and suffering; the cost of past and future medical care, including reconstructive and scar-revision surgery; psychological treatment; income loss and lost earning capacity; attendant care; and out-of-pocket expenses. In fatal cases, the family may bring Family Law Act and estate claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the severity of a burn measured for a legal claim?
By the depth of the burn — first through fourth degree — and the percentage of total body surface area affected. Deeper and more extensive burns generally mean more surgery, more permanent scarring, and greater compensation. We document this with burn specialists, plastic surgeons, and life-care planners.
Can a burn injury be considered catastrophic?
Yes. A severe burn can meet the SABS definition of catastrophic impairment — for instance through the whole-person impairment it produces or its functional effects — unlocking substantially higher medical/rehabilitation and attendant-care benefits. Where the burn arose from a motor-vehicle accident, we pursue that designation.
Who can be held responsible for a burn injury?
It depends on the cause. Liability may rest with a negligent driver, a product manufacturer, a property owner or occupier, or another at-fault party — and sometimes more than one. We investigate to identify every responsible party and source of coverage.
Is the scarring itself compensable?
Yes. Permanent scarring and disfigurement, especially to the face and hands, are significant and distinct heads of damage, as is the psychological harm that often follows a serious burn. We make sure both are documented and valued properly.
What does it cost to hire Azimi Law?
Nothing up front. We act on contingency and fund the specialist evidence these claims require, with our fee payable only from a successful recovery.