Burn injuries are often devastating, causing extreme pain, permanent disfigurement, and long-term emotional trauma. If you or someone you love has suffered a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, you know firsthand how life-changing these injuries can be. Keep reading to learn more about preventing burn injuries from our skilled Orlando burn injury lawyers.
Common causes of preventable burn injuries in Florida
Workplace burns
Florida’s construction, manufacturing, and restaurant industries see numerous burn injuries each year. Under Florida Statute §440.02, employers must provide safe working environments free from recognized hazards. This includes:
- Proper training on handling hot materials and chemicals
- Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Regular maintenance of equipment to prevent electrical fires
- Clearly marked emergency exits and accessible fire extinguishers
Apartment and rental property burns
Landlords in Florida have a legal obligation under Florida Statute §83.51 to maintain their properties in a safe condition, including:
- Working smoke detectors in every unit
- Properly maintained electrical systems
- Safe water heater temperature settings
- Clear fire escapes and emergency exits
Product-related burns
Defective products cause many preventable burns. Under Florida Statute §768.81, manufacturers can be held liable for injuries caused by their products when:
- Products have design flaws making them unnecessarily dangerous
- Manufacturing defects create fire or burn hazards
- Products lack adequate warnings about burn risks
Vehicle fire burns
Car accidents often lead to vehicle fires, causing severe burns. These can often be prevented through:
- Regular vehicle maintenance
- Proper crash safety designs
- Safe fuel system engineering
- Quick emergency response
Protecting your rights after a burn injury
If you’ve already suffered a burn injury due to someone else’s negligence, Florida law provides several avenues for compensation:
- Premises liability claims for burns occurring on unsafe property (Florida Statute §768.0755)
- Product liability claims against manufacturers of defective products
- Workers’ compensation benefits for workplace burns (Florida Statute §440.09)
- Personal injury claims against negligent individuals or companies
The statute of limitations for most burn injury claims in Florida is two years from the date of injury under Florida Statute §95.11(3)(a), but this time can vary depending on your specific situation.
When prevention fails: Documenting your burn injury
If you’ve been burned due to someone else’s negligence, proper documentation is crucial:
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations
- Photograph your injuries throughout the healing process
- Keep detailed records of all medical expenses and treatments
- Document how the injury affects your daily life and ability to work
- Preserve the product, equipment, or material that caused the burn if possible
Moving forward after a burn injury with the help of DWK Law
Recovery from a serious burn injury can be a long and painful process. Burns often require:
- Multiple surgeries and skin grafts
- Extended hospital stays
- Rehabilitation therapy
- Psychological counseling for trauma
- Adaptive equipment for daily activities
When someone else’s negligence caused your burn injury, you shouldn’t have to bear these costs alone. Florida law provides protection for burn injury victims, allowing you to focus on your physical and emotional recovery.
Remember that burn injuries often result in significant medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Understanding your legal rights is an essential part of your recovery journey.
