Overview
Burn injuries from car accidents can cause lasting physical and emotional damage. This blog explains the common causes of burn injuries, the steps to take after a crash, how insurance and legal claims work, and why hiring a Visalia personal injury lawyer can help maximize your settlement.
Table of Contents
A moment of impact can turn an ordinary drive through Mooney Boulevard in Visalia, CA, into a nightmare. Among the most devastating consequences of car accidents are burn injuries, which can leave lifelong scars and emotional trauma.
Understanding the common causes of burn injuries helps victims take the right steps toward recovery—both medically and legally. Let’s break down what leads to these injuries and how to protect your rights after a crash.
Fuel Leaks, Explosions, and Defective Auto Parts
In many personal injury cases, burn injuries occur due to the chain reaction that follows a collision. Here are the common causes of burn injuries in car crashes:
- Fuel leaks – A ruptured gas tank or damaged fuel line can cause flammable liquids to ignite, resulting in severe or third-degree burns.
- Vehicle explosions – Sparks from electrical systems or damaged batteries can set off intense fires.
- Defective auto parts – Faulty wiring, malfunctioning airbags, or poor fuel system designs may increase fire risk.
- Hot surfaces or fluids – Contact with scalding metal, oil, or coolant can cause Second-degree burns and long-term tissue damage.
Data from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) indicate that vehicle fires account for approximately 15% of all reported fires nationwide. These incidents are responsible for about 10% of civilian deaths and 8% of injuries each year.
🔍 Tip: If your car fire resulted from a known defect, you may be eligible for compensation through a product liability or personal injury claim.
What To Do Immediately After a Burn Injury Accident
When you or a loved one suffers a burn after a collision, immediate medical treatment and documentation are crucial for safety and for building your claim.
Here’s what to do at the accident scene:
- Call 911 – Emergency responders can handle potential fuel hazards and treat any airway burn or physical injury.
- Seek medical help – Even if the burns seem minor, prompt care helps reduce the risk of infection, and it is essential to document the type of injury properly.
- Gather evidence – Take photos of the fire, accident scene, and your injuries.
- Collect documents – Obtain accident reports from the police and keep all medical records.
- Notify your insurer – Report the accident and keep detailed notes of the claims process.
📋 Pro Tip: Never accept a settlement offer before consulting a Visalia personal injury lawyer—insurance companies often try to minimize payouts early in the process.
Understanding the Emotional and Financial Toll
Burn injuries are among the most painful forms of physical injury, often caused by car crashes, explosions, or other common causes of burn injuries that lead to severe tissue damage. Victims usually need multiple surgeries and extended rehabilitation.
Along with medical expenses and economic damages, many endure pain and suffering that impacts their quality of life. Beyond the physical scars, emotional trauma such as depression or anxiety can also make recovery more difficult.
The financial impact may include:
- Hospitalization and reconstructive surgery costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Psychological counseling
- Home modifications or assistive care
A long-term study on burn injuries found that many victims require months—or even years—of recovery. These long-term effects underline the importance of pursuing fair compensation.
Why Legal Representation Matters in Burn Injury Cases
Dealing with insurance adjusters while recovering from burns is never easy. A personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, negotiate with insurers, and collect evidence to strengthen your personal injury claim.
Here’s how a Visalia personal injury lawyer can help:
- Review your medical records and fire investigation reports.
- Calculate economic damages and future medical expenses.
- Negotiate fair compensation for pain and suffering or emotional distress.
- Represent you in court if negotiations fail.
Having an attorney ensures your case isn’t undervalued by insurers who often push for quick settlements instead of full recovery.
FAQs
Fuel leaks and electrical malfunctions are among the leading causes of post-crash fires.
Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you may still recover damages based on your percentage of fault.
Keep accident reports, medical records, repair estimates, and all communications with insurance adjusters.
Typically, two years from the date of the accident, but it is better to preserve evidence sooner.
Yes. If a manufacturer’s defect caused the fire, you may file a product liability lawsuit.
Secure the Settlement You Deserve—Contact Our Team Now
Recovering from burn injuries after a crash is painful—physically, emotionally, and financially. Understanding the common causes of burn injuries, such as fuel leaks, explosions, or defective parts, can help strengthen your case and protect your rights.
A personal injury lawyer in Visalia can guide you through every step of your claims process, from gathering medical records to negotiating your settlement offer. Contact our legal team today for a free consultation and let us help you rebuild your life after a devastating car accident.
Get the medical care you need and the money you deserve.
