Is There Potential Compensation for Firefighter Burn Injuries?

Firefighters face some of the most challenging working conditions imaginable. The risk of injury is an inherent part of the job but one of the most serious threats they encounter is burn injuries. If a firefighter is burned on the job there may be compensation for those affected and their families. Below, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo discuss various aspects of firefighter injury claims and the factors that influence potential settlements.

How Serious Are Firefighter Burn Injuries?

While firefighter burn injuries are not the most common injuries firefighters experience they are among the most serious and potentially life-altering injuries that can occur in the line of duty. The nature of firefighting exposes individuals to extreme heat, flames, and hazardous materials, all of which can lead to severe direct or thermal burns. These injuries not only cause immediate physical pain but can also result in long-term complications, impacting a firefighter’s ability to work, their overall health, and their quality of life. 

The seriousness of firefighter burn injuries can last beyond the initial trauma. Burns can lead to infections, respiratory issues, permanent scarring, disfigurement, and even physical and emotional trauma.

Factors Influencing a Firefighter Burn Injury Settlement

Settlements in firefighter burn injury cases are intended to compensate for more than just immediate medical expenses. They also take into account future medical costs, lost income, diminished earning capacity, and the pain and suffering endured by the firefighter. 

When a firefighter suffers a burn injury, the potential for compensation largely depends on several factors, including:

1. Severity of the Injury

The extent of the burn injury is a primary factor in determining potential compensation. Minor burns that heal quickly may not result in significant settlements but more severe burns that require extensive treatment, surgery, or result in permanent disfigurement or disability are more likely to lead to higher compensation. 

2. Impact on the Firefighter’s Career

Burn injuries can have a lasting impact on a firefighter’s ability to perform their job. It may be possible to seek compensation in cases where they can’t return to work due to their injuries or where they have to take on a different role with reduced responsibilities or pay. 

3. Medical Expenses

The cost of medical treatment is another key factor in determining compensation. This includes not only immediate emergency care but also ongoing treatment such as physical therapy, psychological counseling, and reconstructive surgery. Future medical costs should be considered, especially in cases that may require long-term care or additional surgeries.

4. Pain and Suffering

Burn injuries are among the most painful types of injuries. The degree of pain and suffering endured by the firefighter can influence the compensation awarded in a firefighter burn injury settlement. 

5. Negligence and Liability

Determining fault can be a difficult part of any personal injury case, but it can be extremely complicated in firefighter injury cases. Sometimes, injuries may be due to faulty equipment, insufficient training, or lack of proper safety protocols. If negligence can be proven it may lead to a more substantial settlement. However, firefighters are often aware of the risks involved in their work, which can complicate liability claims. An experienced attorney, like those at SPBMCC, can help guide you through the process.

What to Know About Firefighter Burn Injury Claims

Full-time firefighters are typically covered by workers’ compensation which provides benefits for medical expenses and lost wages. However, workers’ compensation may not always cover the full extent of the damages, particularly after severe injuries where long-term disability is involved or in the case of volunteer firefighters. A personal injury lawsuit may be the only chance to secure fair compensation.

The amount of compensation awarded in firefighter burn injury settlements can vary widely. In some cases, settlements may be reached through negotiations with insurance companies or responsible parties. In other situations, the case may go to court, where a judge or jury will determine the amount of compensation based on the evidence presented.

For decades, the Firm has been the friend of injured New York City firefighters and of the families of those firefighters who have given their lives in the performance of their duties. As General Counsel to the over 8,000-plus member New York City Uniformed Firefighters Association, we are fully aware of how these true heroes of our society place themselves in harm’s way to protect the lives and property of our citizens. Over the years SPBMCC has obtained millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements in cases where firefighters’ lives were unnecessarily placed in jeopardy because of poorly designed or maintained buildings or as a result of defective firefighting equipment.

If you or someone you know has been injured in the line of duty, contact our experienced firefighter injury lawyers today for a free consultation.

Contact an Experienced NYC Firefighter Injury Lawyer at SPBMCC Today

Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable, full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including firefighter injuries. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury cases, car accidents, construction accidents, premises liability, and medical malpractice across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.