If You Have Been the Victim of a Chemical Burn

Throughout our lives, we handle a wide range of substances, some completely harmless and others not so much. In many cases, people may have to resort to hardcore cleaners to complete a variety of tasks, from removing an irritating stain on the family carpet to prepping machines or tools in a medical facility. Generally, these chemicals are pretty much under control.

However, due to unfortunate and tragic circumstances, people can easily suffer severe burns after coming into contact with these deadly chemicals. If you have sustained one of these painful injuries due to negligence or ill intent, you will no doubt be terrified and frustrated at the same time, but try to stay calm, as hard as this might be. Remember, with the help of a lawyer experienced with personal injury cases, you can easily overcome this tragedy and seek the justice you deserved.

THE SPECIFICS OF CHEMICAL BURNS

Before we begin, let’s take a closer look at the details regarding this potentially dangerous injury.

Simply put, a chemical burn occurs when a person’s skin comes into contact with a potent substance. In that light, these injuries can occur in a few seconds due to instant exposure, or can develop over a long period of time due to continuous exposure to dangerous chemicals. Substances that can trigger chemical burns include:

• Acids;
• Drain cleaner/lye;
• Paint thinner; and
• Gasoline.

HOW TO IDENTIFY A CHEMICAL BURN

So how can you tell if your loved one has suffered this injury or has endured a regular burn? Here are some signs that you or a loved one has sustained a chemical burn:

• Sudden signs of illness if an empty container is in the vicinity;
• Long-term exposure to hazardous chemicals at work, also known as a chemical buildup;
• Getting the substance in the eyes; or
• Accidentally swallowing the substance.

HOW CHEMICAL BURNS ARE TREATED

In the event that you or a loved one sustained a chemical burn, medical professionals have laid out these steps for emergency treatment:

• Remove the chemical: Remove any traces of the chemical from the victim and the area.
• Flush the wound: Use water to flush the substance from the wound for a minimum of 10 minutes. If a dry chemical was involved, gently brush the substance off the skin.
• Remove clothing: Take off any clothes or jewels that may be coated with the chemical.
• Apply bandages: Place sterile bandages or wraps on the wound and do not apply too much pressure. Do not use cotton, as this will aggravate the injury.
• Flush once more: If needed, use water to flush the wound again.
• Call Poison Control: Always contact this number.

In the event that the wound is beyond your expertise to treat at home, always contact 911 or get yourself or your loved one to the nearest emergency room or burn clinic.

HOW MANY PEOPLE SUFFER FROM BURNS?

Based on data collected by the American Burn Association, here are the statistics for how many people were admitted to burn centers between 2005 and 2014:

• 6% of victims survived their injuries.
• 68% of victims were male, while 32% were female.
• 43% of burns were caused by fires, while a minimal 3% of burns were triggered by chemicals.
• 73% of these injuries occurred at home.

YOUR LEGAL SOLUTION

In the event that you suffer moderate to severe chemical burns, you will be in a great deal of pain and will be terrified of the situation. However, in the event that your wound was the direct result of negligence or wrongdoing, you must never hold responsibility for someone else’s actions. You do not deserve to be put in such tremendous danger.

Here at Edelstein, Martin & Nelson, our team of professional attorneys are passionate about our practice and are fully knowledgeable in the laws, rules, and statutes surrounding unfortunate slip and fall accidents throughout the State of Delaware. We can guarantee you will receive the justice you deserve. For legal advice and for more information about our services, contact our office today at 800-300-0909.