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Queens Burn Injury Attorney

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Burn injuries can leave a lasting impact not only on the life of the injured person but also on their family. The physical pain and emotional trauma associated with such injuries are often compounded by financial pressures from medical expenses and lost income.

At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., our team understands how a burn injury can affect your life and the lives of your loved ones. Our Queens burn injury attorneys have a strong track record of advocating for those affected by burn injuries. We focus on handling the legal process, which allows you and your family to concentrate on the healing process. We work diligently to secure the full compensation you deserve for medical costs, lost wages, and personal suffering.

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, contact K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. today. Let our skilled Queens personal injury attorneys help you take the first step towards recovery and financial stability. Call us for a consultation and find out how we can assist you during this difficult time.

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I would like to thank the KL Sánchez group and the lawyer Sanchez, for helping my mother and myself to fight the lawsuit in a car accident which turned out to be favorable to us due to the experience and the good work done. Likewise for Sonita Espinoza, who is the paralegal who assisted me in this almost 2-year process. I highly recommend this defense group for car accident cases, criminal defense, construction falls. Thank you very much and God bless you for your good work. Edwin Morazan.

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Burn Injury Statistics

Burn injuries can be deeply traumatic and complex, requiring immediate and ongoing medical treatment. They can occur in a variety of settings and arise from multiple sources, making it critical for victims to understand the nature and potential consequences of their injuries. 

According to a study by the American Burn Association released in 2023 on burn injury statistics from 2018-2022, 1 in 10,000 people required inpatient hospitalization due to their injuries. In addition, a substantial portion of burn incidents, 40%, were caused by flame or flash, and alarmingly, over 90% of these incidents were accidental. A majority of these incidents, 61%, occurred within the confines of a private residence, with a third of these residential incidents taking place over the weekend.

In pediatric cases, scalds were particularly prevalent, accounting for 58% of burns among children. Notably, a small percentage of these scald cases, approximately 3.8%, involved suspected abuse, highlighting a critical area of concern. 

The study also provided insights into the severe burden of burn injuries that require intensive care. In 2022 alone, 9,733 burn cases necessitated stays in intensive care units (ICUs), accumulating over 100,000 ICU days. The financial implications of these ICU stays are staggering, with costs exceeding $600 million USD for the year, based solely on a conservative estimate of $6,000 per unventilated ICU day. This expenditure could potentially reach as high as $1 billion USD annually, underscoring the extensive resources required for burn care in severe cases.

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I just recently had an awesome experience with the team at K L Sanchez law office. The lawyer, Kettick Sanchez, was very professional and knowledgeable throughout the whole process, her assistant Kelly was also great at communicating and helping me with any concerns I had. Would definitely recommend their services due to their high quality of work and passion!

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New York State Penal Law § 265.26: Mandatory Reporting of Severe Burn Injuries

New York State Penal Law §265.26 mandates the reporting of certain severe burn injuries to the Office of Fire Prevention and Control. The law is designed to ensure prompt and efficient investigation of burns that are severe enough to suggest the possibility of criminal activity or severe accidents, which can help in both preventing future incidents and providing necessary interventions for safety and health regulations.

Under this statute, any case involving:

  • Second or third-degree burns covering five percent or more of the body
  • Any burns affecting the upper respiratory tract or causing laryngeal edema due to inhalation of super-heated air
  • Burns that are likely to result in death

must be reported immediately to the Office of Fire Prevention and Control. This requirement underscores the seriousness with which New York State treats significant burn injuries, recognizing the potential for these injuries to result from criminal actions, such as arson, or to involve serious accidents that could have broader implications for public safety.

The reporting process involves several key steps:

  • Immediate Notification: The initial report must be made at once to the State Fire Administrator, who then notifies the appropriate investigatory agency. This rapid reporting aims to initiate a swift response from investigative authorities.
  • Written Report: A detailed written report must follow within 72 hours, providing the Office of Fire Prevention and Control with comprehensive information about the incident.

The responsibility for making these reports falls to:

  • The physician attending or treating the victim.
  • The manager, superintendent, or person in charge of the hospital, sanitarium, institution, or other medical facility where the case is treated.

Failure to report as required by this law is considered a class A misdemeanor, highlighting the importance of compliance and the seriousness with which the state regards these obligations. This legal stipulation acts as a deterrent against negligence or non-compliance in the reporting process.

The reporting requirements of New York Penal Law § 265.26 can significantly influence burn injury claims in several ways:

  • Documentation and Evidence: Mandatory reporting ensures that severe burn injuries are officially documented, providing a reliable record that can be crucial in legal proceedings.
  • Prompt Investigation: The law facilitates immediate notification to appropriate investigatory agencies, enabling timely investigations into the cause of the burn injury, which is essential for establishing liability.
  • Legal Compliance: Adherence to this reporting requirement demonstrates compliance with state laws, which can be favorable in legal contexts. Conversely, failure to report may be used against a claimant or medical professional in court.
  • Insurance Claims: Insurance companies may reference these reports to verify the severity and circumstances of the injury, affecting the evaluation and settlement of claims.

For individuals pursuing burn injury claims, understanding the implications of NYPL § 265.26 is vital. Ensuring that the mandated reports are filed can strengthen the credibility of the claim and support the legal process in establishing fault and securing appropriate compensation. 

Our skilled Queens burn injury lawyers from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can leverage the mandatory reporting requirements under New York Penal Law § 265.26 to strengthen your claim. By ensuring the proper documentation and investigation of your case, we can build a compelling argument for liability and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Contact us today at (646) 701-7990 for a free consultation.

Types of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries are classified based on their causative agents, each presenting unique characteristics and requiring specific treatments.

The primary types include:

These result from exposure to external heat sources that raise the skin and tissue temperature, leading to cell death or charring.

Common causes encompass:

  • Flames: Direct contact with fire.
  • Hot Liquids (Scalds): Spills from boiling water or hot beverages.
  • Hot Solids: Contact with heated objects like irons or cooking utensils.
  • Steam: Exposure to steam from boiling water or industrial equipment.

Caused by contact with strong acids, alkalis, detergents, or solvents that damage the skin and underlying tissues. Common sources include industrial chemicals, household cleaning agents, and certain cosmetic products. These burns can occur through direct skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.

Occur when an electrical current passes through the body, generating heat and causing tissue damage. They can result from contact with faulty wiring, electrical outlets, or lightning strikes. Electrical burns often cause deep tissue damage, and the extent may not be immediately visible on the skin’s surface.

Result from exposure to radiation sources. Common examples include:

  • Sunburn: Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun.
  • Radiation Therapy Burns: Skin damage from medical treatments involving radiation.
  • Exposure to Radioactive Materials: Contact with radioactive substances in industrial or medical settings.

Occur when skin rubs against a rough surface, generating heat and causing abrasion and thermal injury. Examples include road rash from motorcycle accidents or carpet burns.

Result from exposure to freezing temperatures, leading to ice crystal formation in the skin cells and subsequent tissue damage. Frostbite usually affects the extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and nose.

Understanding the type of burn is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management strategy. Each type presents unique challenges and potential complications, underscoring the importance of prompt and specialized medical care.

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Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident was tough, but having this Keetick by my side made all the difference. Her skill in the courtroom and compassion during my recovery period were more than I could have asked for. Truly the best in Queens.

yanay perera reves

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Severity Levels of Burns

Burns are classified into degrees based on their depth and severity, which guide treatment and prognosis.

The primary classifications are:

First-degree burns are the mildest form of burns, affecting only the outer layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. Symptoms typically include redness, non-blistering skin, minor inflammation, and pain. These burns generally heal within 7-10 days without permanent scarring and often require only minimal medical treatment, such as cooling the burn, applying aloe vera, or using over-the-counter pain relief.

Second-degree burns involve both the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of the skin. These burns cause swelling, redness, pain, and blistering. The appearance of the burn can vary significantly, and healing typically requires several weeks. These burns are at risk of infection and might need medical treatment, which can include antibiotics, pain management, and sometimes skin grafting, depending on the burn’s severity and location.

Third-degree burns penetrate the entire dermis and affect deeper tissues, which can include fat, muscle, or even bone. The burn site may appear white, charred, or leathery. These burns can destroy nerve endings, resulting in numbness. Treatment for third-degree burns is complex and often requires extensive medical intervention, including surgery, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation. These burns carry a high risk of complications, such as infections and significant scarring.

Fourth-degree burns are the most severe type, extending beyond the skin into underlying tissues, muscles, tendons, and bones. These burns are potentially life-threatening and may not be painful initially due to nerve damage. Recovery from fourth-degree burns might involve multiple surgeries, extended rehabilitation, and could lead to permanent disability or disfigurement.

The long-term effects of burn injuries can extend beyond physical scars. Victims may experience emotional and psychological distress, prolonged physical pain, limited mobility, and even permanent disability depending on the severity of the burn. These effects can profoundly impact a person’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

A skilled attorney from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., with experience in handling burn injury cases in Queens, can provide crucial support to victims. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, contact K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. today. We can assist you in securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Steps to Take After Suffering a Burn Injury

When you suffer a burn injury, the steps you take immediately after the incident can significantly impact your health and any subsequent legal claims. This section outlines the critical actions victims should take following a burn injury, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical care, accurate documentation, and legal consultation. These steps are essential for safeguarding your health and protecting your legal rights under New York law. 

Experiencing a burn injury in New York requires prompt and deliberate actions to ensure proper medical care and safeguard your legal rights.

Here’s a structured guide to follow:

  1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: For severe burns, call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room without delay. Ensure all treatments and diagnoses are thoroughly documented, as these records are vital for any subsequent legal claims.
  2. Report the Incident: Notify your employer about the injury as soon as possible. In New York, you must report workplace injuries within 30 days to be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. If the injury occurred on someone else’s property or due to a defective product, inform the property owner or manufacturer promptly.
  3. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence: Take clear photos of the injury, the accident scene, and any contributing factors. Collect contact details and statements from anyone who witnessed the incident. Obtain copies of any official reports filed, such as police or accident reports.
  4. Maintain Detailed Records: Keep receipts and bills for all medical treatments, medications, and therapies. Document any time missed from work and corresponding loss of income. Maintain a daily log detailing your pain levels, emotional state, and how the injury affects your daily life.
  5. Consult a Burn Injury Attorney: An experienced attorney can help protect your best interests and address the nuances of personal injury law, ensuring you understand your rights and options. Our Queens burn injury attorneys can assess the viability of your claim and advise on potential compensation.
  6. Be Cautious with Insurance Companies: Avoid giving recorded statements or signing any documents from insurance adjusters without legal counsel. Direct all communications through your attorney to protect your interests.
  7. Adhere to Legal Deadlines: In New York, personal injury claims generally must be filed within three years from the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to compensation.

Following these steps can help ensure that you receive appropriate medical care and position yourself to pursue any legal remedies available for your burn injury in New York.

At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., a skilled Queens burn injury attorney can offer invaluable assistance during this challenging time. Our team’s familiarity with New York’s legal landscape and dedication to advocating for burn victims ensures that clients receive both the compassionate support and the vigorous representation they need. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, reaching out to K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can help secure the necessary legal backing to pursue a claim effectively and focus on recovery.

StepActionKey Considerations
Seek Medical AttentionCall 911 or visit an ER for severe burns.Medical records are vital for legal claims.
Report the IncidentNotify your employer or the responsible party.Report within 30 days for workers’ comp eligibility.
Document EvidenceTake photos and gather witness details.Supports your claim and establishes incident context.
Maintain RecordsSave medical bills, therapy receipts, and missed work records.Strengthens claims and shows injury impact.
Consult an AttorneySeek an experienced burn injury attorney for legal guidance.Ensures proper claim handling and protects your rights.
Be Cautious with InsurersAvoid giving statements or signing documents without legal advice.Protects your claim from insurer missteps.
Adhere to Legal DeadlinesFile claims within New York’s 3-year statute of limitations.Missing deadlines can forfeit compensation rights.

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The legal office of Lawyer K L Sánchez, provided us with an excellent service with very qualified personnel, Lawyer Sánchez is a very professional, very qualified and very responsible person, in the same way Ms. Yenny is a very professional and qualified person, they They show interest and concern for your case and do not rest until it is 100% resolved, which I certainly recommend. For my part you have my gratitude and thanks.

horus garay

Negligence in Burn Injury Claims

In New York, as in many jurisdictions, negligence plays a pivotal role in personal injury claims involving burn injuries. When a person or entity fails to exercise a reasonable standard of care and that failure results in a burn injury, they may be held liable for negligence. Understanding how negligence factors into these claims requires an examination of several key legal concepts and processes.

For a burn injury claim to be successful under a negligence framework in New York, the plaintiff must establish four critical elements:

  • Duty of Care: The defendant must have owed a duty of care to the plaintiff. This duty varies depending on the relationship between the parties and the circumstances. For example, employers have a duty to provide a safe working environment, product manufacturers must not produce dangerously defective products, and property owners need to maintain safe premises.
  • Breach of Duty: The plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant breached this duty. In the context of burn injuries, this could involve failing to follow safety regulations, not providing adequate safety equipment or warnings, or negligence in handling flammable materials.
  • Causation: There must be a direct link between the defendant’s breach of duty and the injury suffered by the plaintiff. The plaintiff must show that their burn injury was a foreseeable consequence of the defendant’s actions or inaction.
  • Damages: The plaintiff must have sustained actual damages as a result of the injury, which can include medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and other compensatory damages.

Burn injuries can occur in a variety of settings and involve different types of negligence, including:

  • Workplace Accidents: Employers failing to adhere to safety protocols or OSHA regulations, leading to burns from fires, chemicals, or explosions.
  • Residential Fires: Landlords or property managers may neglect necessary fire safety measures like smoke detectors and clear fire exits.
  • Product Liability: Manufacturers or distributors of products that cause burns due to defects or inadequate safety warnings.
  • Utility Companies: Negligence in managing and maintaining equipment that could lead to fires or explosions.

In New York, when pursuing a negligence claim, the plaintiff might also face several legal considerations:

  • Comparative Negligence: New York follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, where a plaintiff’s compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault in the incident. If a plaintiff is found partially responsible for their own injuries, their damages award will be adjusted accordingly.
  • Statute of Limitations: There is a limited time during which a burn injury claim can be filed, typically three years from the date of the injury under New York law.
  • Economic and Non-Economic Damages: Plaintiffs can seek compensation for both tangible losses (like medical bills and lost wages) and intangible losses (such as pain and suffering).

Burn injury claims can be complex and require detailed evidence and expert testimony to establish the extent of negligence and the damages incurred.

Call K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. today at (646) 701-7990 for experienced legal assistance in determining the impact of negligence on your situation and building a solid case for your rightful compensation.

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Compensation for Burn Injury Victims

In New York, compensation for burn injury claims is calculated based on a range of factors that reflect the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life, and the financial losses incurred. The primary goal of compensation in personal injury cases, including those involving burns, is to make the injured party “whole” again to the extent that money can achieve this. 

Calculating economic damages involves tallying all the quantifiable expenses and losses. This process requires gathering medical bills, employment records, and receipts. Future expenses, such as ongoing care or future lost earnings, are often estimated by economic experts and may involve complex calculations that consider inflation and changes in medical needs over time.

Non-economic damages are more subjective and can vary significantly from one case to another. The amount awarded for pain and suffering, for example, depends on the individual circumstances of the case, the severity and permanency of the injuries, and the impact on the victim’s quality of life. Lawyers often use similar past cases as benchmarks and may apply multipliers to the economic damages based on the severity of the injury to estimate non-economic damages.

Several factors can affect the total compensation awarded in burn injury cases:

  • Severity and Location of Burns: More severe burns (higher degrees) and those in highly visible locations (like the face) typically result in higher compensation.
  • Age and Occupation of the Victim: Younger victims and those in occupations requiring physical work or public interaction might receive higher awards for loss of earning capacity and disfigurement.
  • Comparative Negligence: In New York, if the victim is found to be partially at fault for their injuries, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault.

At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., our skilled Queens burn injury attorneys can play a crucial role in ensuring that you receive the full compensation you are entitled to under New York law. Contact K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. today. We can help in compiling evidence and calculating the amount of compensation for your case and guide you through the steps towards a favorable resolution.

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I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND! I will give more than 5 stars if I could! They are really so helpful and knowledgable. The team always made sure our case was up to date, especially YENNY. She’s one of a kind! She’s always there when I need her! So polite and so kind. We are so grateful to Attorney Sanchez and her team for winning our case!!! Thank you so much K L Sanchez Law Office!

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Settlement vs. Trial: What to Expect

Deciding whether to settle a burn injury claim or proceed to trial is a significant decision that depends on many factors, including the strength of the evidence, the defendant’s willingness to offer a fair settlement, and the victim’s personal circumstances. 

A settlement involves negotiating an agreement between you (the plaintiff) and the responsible party (the defendant) or their insurance company to resolve the claim without going to court.

This approach offers several benefits:

  • Time Efficiency: Settlements are typically reached more quickly than trials, allowing you to receive compensation sooner. 
  • Cost Savings: Avoiding a trial reduces legal fees and associated expenses.
  • Certainty: Settlements provide a definite outcome, eliminating the unpredictability of a trial verdict.
  • Privacy: Settlement details are usually confidential, keeping personal information out of the public record.

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial, where both parties present evidence and arguments before a judge or jury.

Key aspects of a trial include:

  • Public Proceedings: Trials are part of the public record, and details of the case become accessible.
  • Time and Expense: Trials can be lengthy and costly, often requiring extensive preparation and legal resources.
  • Uncertainty: The outcome is determined by a judge or jury, introducing unpredictability regarding the verdict and compensation awarded.
  • Potential for Higher Compensation: In some cases, trials may result in larger awards, especially if punitive damages are considered.

Deciding between settling and going to trial depends on various factors, including the strength of your case, the willingness of the defendant to offer fair compensation, and your personal preferences regarding time, cost, and privacy. Consulting with an experienced burn injury attorney can help you navigate this decision and pursue the most favorable outcome for your situation.

At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., our skilled Queens burn injury attorneys can provide invaluable assistance throughout the legal process. From gathering and analyzing critical evidence to making strategic decisions about settling or proceeding to trial, our attorneys’ guidance is tailored to advocate for your best interest. If you are dealing with the aftermath of a burn injury, our attorneys at K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can help you effectively handle the legal challenges and work towards a just resolution. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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How Our Skilled Queens Burn Injury Attorney Can Help

Suffering a burn injury can be a life-altering experience, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. A skilled Queens burn injury lawyer from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can provide invaluable assistance in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. 

Our attorneys at K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the burn injury and identify all liable parties. This process involves gathering evidence, consulting with medical experts, and reconstructing the incident to build a strong case on your behalf.

Burn injury cases often involve intricate legal procedures and strict deadlines. Our experienced lawyers can guide you through each step, ensuring all necessary documents are filed correctly and promptly, and that your case complies with New York’s legal requirements.

Understanding the full extent of your injuries and their impact on your life is crucial. Our attorneys work diligently to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages. We negotiate assertively with insurance companies and, if necessary, are prepared to take your case to trial to achieve a fair outcome.

Recognizing the emotional toll of a burn injury, the legal team offers personalized attention and compassionate support throughout the legal process. We are committed to keeping clients informed about their case’s progress and are available to address any concerns or questions you may have.

With a proven track record in handling burn injury claims, K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. brings extensive experience and knowledge to your case. Our attorneys have a great familiarity with New York’s personal injury laws and precedents that enable us to craft effective legal strategies tailored to your specific situation.

Entrusting your case to a dedicated Queens burn injury lawyer from K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. can allow you to focus on your recovery while we work tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Compassionate Legal Guidance and Support From K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C.

The road to recovery after a burn injury can be long and fraught with challenges, not just for the injured but also for their families. At K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C., our Queens burn injury lawyers are committed to providing effective legal representation to alleviate some of this burden. We can fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve, giving you the space to focus on healing and rebuilding your lives.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a burn injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Contact K L Sanchez Law Office, P.C. today at (646) 701-7990 for a free consultation where we can discuss your situation and how we can assist. Let our dedicated team support you in your journey toward justice and recovery.

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I had a really good experience working with my lawyer Keetick Sanchez. She greatly helped me through a stressful time in my life and made the whole process go very smooth. Ms. Sanchez’s paralegal Sonia Espinoza was always available and took the time to answer all of my questions. Neither of them ever rushed me through anything, rather they provided me with thoughtful support and advice.

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