Being involved in a bicycle accident can lead to life-changing and debilitating injuries. The average car weighs over 4,000 pounds. When that amount of weight strikes a vulnerable cyclist at any speed, devastation can result. While many people who ride bicycles work to protect themselves against injuries such as lacerations, fractures, and head trauma, one consequence that cyclists can forget about is the potential for burns.
Even for the most careful cyclists who wear helmets and other protective gear, an accident that leads to burn injuries can turn a life upside-down in an instant. Those who suffer burns in bicycle accidents face substantial medical bills, a long and painful recovery process, and the potential for lifelong disfigurement.
Nobody suffering burn injuries in a bike accident that wasn’t their fault deserves to face financial consequences from their injuries. The experienced Northern California bicycle accident attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm have an established track record of fighting for Northern California residents who have been injured and recovering the compensation they need to cover their losses. If you have received burn injuries in a bicycle accident, call our offices today at (916) 999-9000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Causes of Burn Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
When a bicycle rider is involved in a traffic accident, they can potentially suffer from several types of burn injuries. The causes of burn injuries in bicycle accidents include:
- Contact with a live current
- Exposure to debris
- Contact with dangerous chemicals
- Contact with hot metal, plastic, or glass
- Vehicle explosion
- Friction with seat belts
- Deployment of airbags
While a vehicle collision may cause these factors, they can also result from defective vehicle parts, such as:
- Gas tanks
- Fuel pumps
- Fuel filtration systems
- Other fuel system components
After you consult with a bicycle accident lawyer, they will conduct a full investigation into the accident to determine the causes of your injuries. As a result, they will find out who is liable for the accident. The driver or owner of the vehicle, the manufacturer of the defective part, or a negligent mechanic could be responsible.
The Importance of Seeking Medical Care
After receiving burn injuries, seeking medical care as soon as possible is vital to increase your chances of recovering. Getting prompt medical treatment can also help to strengthen your claim.
Sometimes, however, a bicyclist might suffer a burn injury without even realizing it has happened. The body releases a large amount of adrenaline in the moments after an accident, which can mask the pain a person is feeling. This masking effect is another reason why seeking medical attention as soon as possible after being involved in any accident is essential.
If you realized that you received burn injuries after walking away from an accident but did not receive medical treatment right away, speak to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible about how you can take steps to protect your claim.
Types of Burn Injuries in Bicycle Accidents
Your medical professional will give you an assessment of the type of burn injury you have suffered in the bicycle accident. In most cases, burn injuries are classified on a scale of one to three. The degrees of burns are as follows:
- First-degree burn – This is a burn that affects just the top layer of the skin and is generally expected to heal in about a week.
- Second-degree burn – This type of burn reaches the second layer of the skin as well as the first. These burns can cause intense pain, swelling, and blisters. Medical professionals should treat them.
- Third-degree burn – This type of burn occurs when the tissue, nerves, and blood vessels are damaged. It may also lead to a loss of sensation at first, followed by severe pain as the wound begins to heal. If the nerves are involved, there may be no pain. Third-degree burns can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Potential Complications of Burn Injuries from Bicycle Accidents
The more severe a burn injury is, the more likely it is to lead to severe and permanent changes in the patient. Some complications include:
- Infection – The skin is your body’s greatest layer of protection against infection. When the skin is destroyed, you become far more susceptible to infections.
- Septic shock – Developing an infection can lead to septic shock, in which the infection spreads to the bloodstream.
- Fluid loss – Many burn victims require intravenous (IV) hydration due to the intense levels of fluid loss they suffer.
- Pulmonary embolism – Severe burns can cause blood clots, leading to dangerous lung blockages.
- Psychological effects – Due to the intense pain levels and the potential for disability and disfigurement, many people who have suffered burns develop severe anxiety, depression, and other psychological struggles.
Compensation for Burn Injuries from Bicycle Accidents
The compensation you are eligible to receive in a claim for your burn injuries will depend on the individual circumstances of your case. You may be able to recover compensation for your accident-related losses, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages from missed time at work while you recover
- Reduced future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Cost of assistive devices
- Pain and suffering
- Disability and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Your personal injury attorney will assess your case and give you an idea of what you can expect to recover.
Contact an Experienced Northern California Bicycle Accident Attorney Today
If you have suffered burn injuries in a bicycle accident that was not your fault, you deserve compensation for your losses. The experienced attorneys at Tiemann Law Firm understand how challenging life can suddenly become after suffering burn injuries. We will fight for you so that you can focus on your recovery. We will handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the causes to negotiating your settlement. We will take the at-fault party to court to fight for your compensation if necessary.
Call us today at (916) 999-9000 or contact us online for a free consultation.
