At Bernard Law Group, we understand how devastating burn injuries can be and are here to help you reclaim your life. As your trusted Bellingham injury lawyer, we bring legal knowledge, compassion, and dedication to every case we handle.
Understanding Burn Injuries and Their Impact
Burn injuries can vary in severity, from minor first-degree burns to catastrophic third- and fourth-degree burns that penetrate deep into tissues and bones. Severe burns often require extensive medical care, including surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation. The financial toll is staggering, with treatments often costing hundreds of thousands.
Beyond the physical scars, burn victims often endure psychological challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Families, too, feel the ripple effects of these injuries as they navigate caregiving responsibilities and financial instability.
As your burn injury attorney in Bellingham, we aim to provide the support you need to overcome these challenges and secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Bellingham
Burn injuries can result from a variety of circumstances, many of which involve negligence. Common causes include:
- Workplace Accidents: Employees in construction, manufacturing, or food services often encounter hazards such as open flames, hot liquids, or electrical equipment. Washington State law requires employers to adhere to strict safety standards under the Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act (WISHA). When these standards are violated, we hold employers accountable.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car and truck crashes can lead to fires or explosions, resulting in severe burns. Negligent drivers, defective vehicle parts, or poorly maintained roads may contribute to these incidents.
- Defective Products: Faulty household appliances, electronics, or industrial equipment can cause burns due to malfunctions or design flaws. In such cases, manufacturers can be liable under Washington’s product liability laws.
- Premises Liability: Property owners have a duty to maintain safe conditions. Failing to address fire hazards, chemical leaks, or unsafe electrical wiring can lead to devastating burn injuries.
- Scalding Accidents: Hot water and steam, often in rental properties or public spaces, are common causes of burns. Washington landlords must comply with safety standards, including water heater temperature regulations, to protect tenants and visitors.
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Legal Rights of Burn Injury Victims in Washington
Burn injury victims in Bellingham have legal rights to pursue compensation under Washington law. These cases often involve demonstrating the negligence or liability of another party. As your injury lawyer in Bellingham, we investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury to build a strong case on your behalf.
Courts apply a comparative negligence standard under Washington’s Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Section 4.22.070. This means that even if you are partially at fault for your injury, you can still recover compensation, though your percentage of fault will reduce your award. We fight to minimize any fault attributed to you and maximize your recovery.
Types of Compensation Available to Burn Injury Victims
Burn injuries often result in significant damages, both economic and non-economic. Our experienced team seeks full compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, medication, rehabilitation, and future medical needs related to your injury.
- Lost Wages: If your injury prevents you from working, temporarily or permanently, we calculate the full scope of your lost income and earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Severe burns cause immense physical and emotional pain, and you deserve compensation for these intangible losses.
- Property Damage: If your personal property, such as a vehicle, was damaged in the incident, we ensure these costs are covered.
Why Choose Us as Your Bellingham Burn Injury Lawyer?
Choosing the right attorney is one of the most critical decisions after a burn injury. At Bernard Law Group, we bring decades of experience representing injury victims throughout Washington State.
Here’s what sets us apart:
- Compassionate Advocacy: We understand the emotional toll burn injuries take and approach every case with empathy and respect.
- Proven Track Record: Our results speak for themselves. We’ve secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for injury victims.
- Personalized Attention: We treat every case as unique. You’re not just another file to us—we take the time to understand your story and needs.
- No Upfront Costs: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Steps to Take After a Burn Injury
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities. Immediate medical care addresses your injuries and creates essential documentation for your case.
- Preserve Evidence: Take photographs of your injuries, the scene of the incident, and any defective products or unsafe conditions.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim. Let us handle all communication with insurers to ensure your rights are protected.
- Contact Our Firm: The sooner we investigate your case, the stronger your claim will be. Call us for a free consultation, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.
How We Build a Strong Case for Burn Injury Victims
Our approach to burn injury cases is thorough and strategic. We gather every piece of evidence, from eyewitness statements to medical records, to support your claim.
We work closely with medical experts, economists, and other specialists to fully understand the extent of your damages and present a compelling case. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we are relentlessly pursuing your best possible outcome.
Need Justice? Reach Out Today for Legal Counsel
Contact the Best Injury Law Firm in Bellingham
At Bernard Law Group, we are more than just lawyers—we are your advocates, your allies, and your voice in the fight for justice. If you’re looking for a burn injury attorney in Bellingham who truly cares about your future, you’ve come to the right place.
Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward healing and recovery. We can hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
