St. John’s Fire and Burn Injury Lawyers

At NOVA Injury Law, we know that the aftermath of fire and burn injuries can be devastating, both physically and emotionally, and we want to get you the compensation you deserve. What sets our firm apart is that we have a practicing emergency room physician on our team so that we can present well-supported medical evidence for your claim. Contact our lawyers in St. John’s for a free, no-obligation review of your fire and burn injury case.

Common Reasons for Fire and Burn Injuries

Burn injuries can happen almost anywhere. Whether it’s a scalding pot of water or a downed utility pole, here are some of the most frequent types of incidents where someone else’s actions or negligence may be responsible for your burns:

• Chemical spills or exposure
• Contact with live electrical currents
• Fires in commercial buildings
• Faulty or defective products
• Vehicle collisions involving fire
• Exposure to harmful radiation

Burn Severity Levels

Doctors categorize burns based on how deep the damage extends into the skin and surrounding tissues:

• First-degree burns: These affect only the top layer of skin (epidermis), causing redness and minor discomfort. Most first-degree burns, such as mild sunburns, heal without lasting damage.
• Second-degree burns: These partial-thickness burns extend deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis. They may cause redness, swelling, and painful blisters. While smaller burns often heal with time, larger or deeper partial-thickness burns require advanced medical treatment. An extensive burn covers more than 10% of your body. 
• Third-degree burns: These are the most severe burns, penetrating both layers of skin and sometimes affecting muscles, bones, and tendons. The skin may appear white, blackened, or charred, and nerve damage in the area can result in a loss of sensation. These burns require immediate medical attention.

Health Challenges and Complications from Burn Injuries

Severe fire injuries and burns often lead to significant medical challenges and long-term consequences. Depending on the injury, you may experience reduced mobility and range of motion, and in severe cases, limbs may even need to be amputated. Having burned skin also increases your risk of infections. Many people are also permanently scarred or disfigured.

Recovery from a burn injury may take weeks or months, and it can involve extensive medical care, such as pain management, physical therapy, skin grafts, or reconstructive surgery. Burn survivors may also experience psychological difficulties stemming from the trauma of the event. Counseling may help victims cope with the emotional impact of their injuries.

Steps To Take When Filing a Fire or Burn Injury Claim

In Newfoundland and Labrador, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a personal injury claim. However, there are some exceptions to this general limitation period and the timeline to file a claim may be shorter or longer depending on your circumstances. Acting quickly can improve your chances of building a strong case with the necessary evidence.

Once the immediate danger of a fire or burn injury has passed, consider the following steps:

• Photograph your injuries and any visible evidence at the scene.
• Record your recollections of the incident while the details are fresh in your mind.
• Collect contact information from witnesses who can provide statements about what happened.

Working with an experienced lawyer can help you navigate the claims process smoothly.

Call Our St. John’s Fire and Burn Injury Lawyers Today

NOVA Injury Law is committed to helping burn victims receive compensation for their injuries. Our legal team, supported by in-house medical expertise, will guide you through every step of your case. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review, and let us help you focus on recovery.