Written by How Car Accidents Cause Burn Injuries
Most people think of broken bones and whiplash when they picture car accident injuries. But burn injuries happen more often than you might expect. Fuel leaks, engine fires, hot metal, and even airbag deployment can cause serious burns in a crash.
In Chicago, thousands of car accidents happen every year. A portion of those involve fires or explosions that leave victims with painful, life-changing burn injuries. If you or someone you love suffered burns in a car accident caused by another driver, you may have the right to pursue compensation under Illinois law.
Common Causes of Burns in Car Crashes
Fuel Tank Ruptures and Fires
A rear-end collision or high-speed crash can rupture a vehicle’s fuel tank. When gasoline leaks and comes into contact with a heat source, the result can be a flash fire or explosion. Occupants who are trapped inside the vehicle face the highest risk of severe burns.
Engine Fires
The engine compartment contains flammable fluids like oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. A hard impact can crack hoses or damage seals, causing these fluids to spray onto hot engine parts. The resulting fire can spread to the passenger cabin quickly.
Electrical System Failures
Modern vehicles have complex electrical systems. A crash can damage wiring, causing short circuits that generate intense heat or sparks. This is especially dangerous in electric and hybrid vehicles, where battery fires can reach extreme temperatures.
Airbag Burns
Airbags save lives. But when they deploy, they release hot gases and chemicals that can cause friction burns, chemical burns, or thermal burns to the face, arms, and chest. These burns are usually less severe but still painful and sometimes require medical treatment.
Contact with Hot Surfaces and Fluids
After a crash, hot metal, steam from a broken radiator, or spilled fluids can burn anyone who touches the wreckage. First responders and bystanders trying to help can also suffer these types of burns.
Types of Burns Car Accident Victims Suffer
Burns are classified by severity:
- First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of skin. They cause redness and pain but usually heal without scarring.
- Second-degree burns go deeper, causing blisters and significant pain. They may require medical treatment and can leave scars.
- Third-degree burns destroy the full thickness of skin. The burned area may look white, brown, or charred. These burns often require surgery, including skin grafts.
- Fourth-degree burns extend past the skin into muscle, tendon, or bone. These are the most severe and can be fatal.
Many car accident burn victims suffer second- and third-degree burns that require months of treatment and leave permanent scars.
Medical Treatment for Car Accident Burns
Burn treatment depends on the severity. Mild burns may need only wound care and pain medication. More serious burns require:
- Emergency room treatment and stabilization
- Treatment at a specialized burn center
- Debridement (removal of dead tissue)
- Skin graft surgery
- Multiple follow-up surgeries
- Physical therapy to restore mobility
- Occupational therapy for daily living tasks
- Psychological counseling for trauma and PTSD
Chicago has several burn treatment centers, including the Loyola University Medical Center Burn Center. Treatment at these facilities can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Who Is Liable for Burn Injuries in Car Accidents?
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence system. You can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. Several parties may be liable:
The Other Driver
If another driver caused the crash through negligence, such as speeding, drunk driving, or running a red light, they can be held liable for all resulting injuries, including burns.
The Vehicle Manufacturer
If a defect in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing caused or worsened the fire, the manufacturer may be liable under Illinois product liability law. Common defects include poorly designed fuel systems, faulty wiring, and defective batteries in electric vehicles. Learn more about car accident claims in Chicago.
Government Entities
If dangerous road conditions contributed to the crash, such as missing guardrails or poorly maintained roads, a government entity may share liability.
Compensation for Burn Injuries from Car Accidents
Burn injury claims tend to result in higher compensation than many other injury types because of the severity of the damage. You may be entitled to:
- Medical expenses: Past and future treatment costs, including surgery, hospital stays, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages: Income lost during recovery and reduced future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the burns
- Scarring and disfigurement: Compensation for permanent changes to your appearance
- Loss of normal life: Reduced ability to enjoy activities you participated in before the injury
Illinois does not cap damages in most personal injury cases. This means there is no limit on what a jury can award for pain, suffering, and other non-economic losses.
The Statute of Limitations in Illinois
Under Illinois law (735 ILCS 5/13-202), you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, the court will almost certainly dismiss your case. Some exceptions apply, but you should not count on them. Talk to a lawyer as soon as possible after a burn injury.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Burn Injury
Insurance companies know that burn injury claims can be worth significant money. They may try to minimize your claim by:
- Arguing that your burns are less severe than they are
- Claiming you do not need all the treatment your doctors recommend
- Offering a quick, low settlement before you know the full extent of your injuries
- Blaming you for the accident to reduce their payout
Do not accept a settlement offer before speaking with an experienced burn injury attorney. Once you accept, you give up your right to pursue additional compensation. For more information about dealing with insurers, visit our page on insurance and liability.
Why You Need a Chicago Burn Injury Lawyer
Burn injury cases are complex. They require medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and an understanding of Illinois personal injury law. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the fire and identify all liable parties
- Work with medical experts to document the full extent of your injuries
- Calculate the true value of your claim, including future medical needs
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Take your case to trial if a fair settlement is not offered
Phillips Law Offices has represented burn injury victims in Chicago for decades. We understand what it takes to build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Learn more about how to choose the right lawyer for your case.
Steps to Take After a Burn Injury in a Car Accident
- Get medical treatment immediately. Your health comes first. Go to the emergency room or a burn center right away.
- Report the accident. Make sure a police report is filed. This creates an official record of what happened.
- Document everything. If you can, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any visible damage. Save all medical records and bills.
- Do not give recorded statements. The other driver’s insurance company may call you. Politely decline to give a recorded statement until you have talked to a lawyer.
- Contact a burn injury lawyer. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong case.
Get Help with Your Burn Injury Claim Today
If you suffered burn injuries in a car accident in Chicago or anywhere in Illinois, you do not have to face this alone. The legal team at Phillips Law Offices can review your case at no cost and help you understand your options.
Call Phillips Law Offices at (312) 346-4262 or contact us online for a free consultation.