Jacksonville Burn Injury Attorney

Compassionate Legal Help for Severe Burn Victims in Jacksonville, FL

Burn injuries are among the most painful and traumatic injuries a person can endure. The physical pain is often matched by the emotional and financial toll these injuries can take on victims and their families. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious burn due to someone else’s negligence, our experienced Jacksonville burn injury lawyer at Edwards & Ragatz, P.A. can help you pursue justice and maximum compensation.

Call (904) 295-1050 or contact us online today for a free consultation with our Jacksonville burn injury attorneys.

What is a Burn Injury?

Burn injuries are classified based on the severity of skin and tissue damage:

• First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of the skin (epidermis), causing redness and pain. These usually heal without long-term effects.
• Second-degree burns affect both the outer and underlying layer of skin (dermis), leading to blistering, swelling, and severe pain.
• Third-degree burns damage all layers of the skin and may extend into muscle, fat, or bone. These burns often cause permanent scarring and nerve damage.
• Fourth-degree burns, the most severe, penetrate deeper tissues and often require amputation or result in fatality.

Burn injuries are not only physically excruciating but also often require extensive treatment, including surgery, skin grafts, rehabilitation, and psychological therapy.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can result from a wide variety of incidents, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

• Workplace accidents – Industrial fires, electrical malfunctions, and chemical exposures are common in factories, construction sites, and manufacturing jobs.
• Motor vehicle accidents – Gasoline explosions, engine fires, or contact with hot vehicle parts during a crash can cause severe burns.
• Defective products – Malfunctioning electronics, flammable clothing, and unsafe appliances can lead to serious burn injuries.
• Property owner negligence – Fires caused by faulty wiring, lack of smoke alarms, or unsafe building conditions may make landlords or property owners liable.
• Chemical burns – Exposure to corrosive substances like acids or alkalis can cause tissue damage upon contact.
• Scalding from hot liquids – Particularly common among children and the elderly, scald injuries can happen in homes, restaurants, and healthcare settings.

If your burn injury resulted from another party’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

Long-Term Effects of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can result in a lifetime of medical complications and emotional trauma. Common long-term consequences include:

• Chronic pain and nerve damage – Especially with third- and fourth-degree burns, nerves can be permanently damaged, leading to numbness or long-term discomfort.
• Infection and complications – Burn wounds are highly susceptible to infection, which can slow healing or become life-threatening.
• Disfigurement and scarring – Even with medical treatment, severe burns often leave permanent marks that affect a person’s appearance and self-esteem.
• Emotional trauma – Victims may suffer from PTSD, depression, or anxiety, especially if their injuries impact daily life, relationships, or employment.
• Loss of function – Burn damage to muscles, tendons, or bones can result in reduced mobility or physical ability, sometimes leading to disability.

At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we understand how profoundly burn injuries affect every aspect of a victim’s life. Our team works tirelessly to ensure victims in Jacksonville receive the compensation they need for recovery and rehabilitation.

What Compensation Can a Burn Injury Victim Receive?

Burn injury victims may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement and loss of quality of life
• Costs for rehabilitation and home modifications
• Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm)

FAQs About Burn Injury Claims in Jacksonville, FL

How long do I have to file a burn injury lawsuit in Jacksonville?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including burn injuries, is two years from the date of the injury (as of 2023 legal changes). However, it's critical to act quickly, as evidence can disappear and witnesses can become harder to track over time.

What if my burn happened at work?

If your injury occurred while on the job, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. However, if a third party (such as an equipment manufacturer or outside contractor) was also responsible, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit in addition to your workers’ comp claim.

Can I sue for a burn injury caused by a defective product?

Yes. If a product was unreasonably dangerous or lacked proper warnings, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held liable under Florida product liability laws.

What should I do after a burn injury?

First, seek immediate medical attention. Then, document your injuries with photos and gather contact information from any witnesses. If possible, preserve evidence related to the cause of the burn (e.g., defective product, photos of the accident scene). Finally, contact a Jacksonville burn injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.

How much is my burn injury case worth?

Every case is unique. Factors like the severity of your injuries, the extent of your medical treatment, and the impact on your life will influence the value of your claim. At Edwards & Ragatz, P.A., we will provide a detailed case evaluation and aggressively pursue full compensation.