Burn Accident Attorneys in Dallas, TX: Fighting to See Justice Served
Burns are one of the most difficult types of catastrophic injuries a person can experience. They often require extensive medical treatment and, in the worst instances, can change the rest of a person’s life. That’s why those with burn injuries deserve answers and compensation from those who could have prevented their suffering. When the negligence of another party causes people to sustain serious injuries, Arnold & Itkin steps in to fight for justice on their behalf.
No one deserves to suffer because of the careless actions of others. Our Dallas burn injury lawyers focus on the recovery of our clients and help them move on with their lives. We never settle for less than they deserve, and we never back down on their behalf, making sure corporations and their insurance companies pay for their wrongdoing.
Call (888) 493-1629 today for a free, private consultation with our burn injury attorneys in Dallas. We serve the Dallas-Fort Worth area, all of Texas, and the entire United States.
Our Dallas Burn Attorneys Get Life-Changing Results
Burn injuries rank among the costliest injuries in American hospitals. Generally, burn trauma units are staffed entirely with high-cost specialists, and the nature of these injuries demands 24-hour care. Additionally, the initial stay for burn injury survivors is longer than other injuries. That’s why our firm fights for the absolute maximum our clients need. We work tirelessly to ensure that not only are their immediate medical expenses covered but also their long-term care needs and rehabilitation costs. This includes specialist consultations, surgeries, and any necessary reconstructive procedures.
Our burn injury case results speak for themselves:
$222 million for the widow of a plant worker fatally burned by steam.
$177.5 million for workers severely burned in an industrial accident.
$164.5 million for the family of a worker who suffered fatal burn injuries.
$125 million for the widow of a dredge worker who was fatally burned.
$92.7 million record-setting settlement for burn injury claims in the state.
$87 million for a worker who suffered life-threatening burns in a refinery accident.
$49 million for a plant worker who suffered serious burn injuries in an explosion.
$39.7 million for a worker burned in a preventable dust explosion at a plywood plant.
The above list is far from exhaustive, as we have successfully represented clients in many other burn injury and catastrophic injury cases. When you're looking for the right attorney, you need to be confident that you're working with an advocate who will stop at nothing to pursue the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Our Dallas burn accident lawyers' commitment extends beyond the courtroom as we assist clients in navigating post-trauma recovery resources and channels critical for their adaptation to new life circumstances.
“If I wouldn’t have hired Arnold & Itkin, I don’t know where I would be.”
Recent Cases Filed by Our Dallas Burn Injury Lawyers
A significant number of the tens of thousands of serious burn injuries every year are caused by work accidents, defective products, and vehicle accidents—all related to negligence. As burn injury attorneys in Dallas, it's our job to investigate these accidents on behalf of plaintiffs, advocating for them against reckless companies and their insurers.
Find out how our Dallas burn injury lawyers might be able to help you! Request your free consultation by calling (888) 493-1629.
There Are Thousands of Burn Accidents in Dallas Every Year
According to the American Burn Association, burns are one of the most common types of serious injuries. The organization estimates that about 486,000 burn injuries that require treatment happen each year. It got this information by examining federal surveys that track hospital admissions and emergency room visits. Parkland Health, the largest and oldest burn center in Dallas, provides medical treatment for roughly 2,000 burn accident victims every year.
Facts about burn injuries include:
About 3,257 people die from fire and smoke inhalation each year.
One person dies from fire-related injuries every 2 hours and 41 minutes.
Approximately 8% of burn injuries are occupational.
The worst part of burn injuries is the fact that nearly all of them are preventable. Our Dallas burn lawyers have seen people burned at home because of negligent gas companies, workers injured because their employer didn't make a simple fix, and families struggling because someone didn't operate a vehicle safely. Burn accidents are nearly always preventable, caused by the negligence of others. We fight for the answers that survivors and families deserve.
Understanding Burn Injury Lawsuits in Dallas
With the region's strong industrial presence and dense population, burn injuries in Dallas may be caused by anything from house fires to chemical spills or vehicle collisions. Understanding the local legal landscape is crucial for pursuing these claims. The state of Texas operates under a “modified comparative fault” rule, meaning victims can seek compensation as long as they are less than 51% responsible for the injury. The statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury cases, including burn injuries, is typically two years from the date of the incident. Establishing liability and taking timely legal action are critical to preserving your rights and seeking a positive case result.
Additionally, different types of burn injuries require different legal approaches. For example, a chemical burn may involve multiple parties, including manufacturers and employers, whereas a fire-related burn could implicate a building owner or maintenance company. To have the best chance at a successful claim, it takes a well-versed attorney who understands both the legal complexities and the local nuances specific to Dallas. Arnold & Itkin is committed to employing comprehensive strategies tailored to each client's circumstances, exploring all relevant avenues for compensation.
Potential Causes of Burn Injuries in the Greater Dallas Area
Burns can happen in many different environments and scenarios. Understanding these can help one get a better idea of who is at risk and who may be held accountable. In the Dallas area, burn injuries may occur as a result of:
Workplace Accidents Dallas is home to numerous industrial workplaces, including factories, warehouses, and construction sites. These environments often involve handling hot materials, chemicals, or electrical equipment, making them common settings for burn injuries. Workers may suffer burns from machinery, spilled chemicals, or electrical faults. Our attorneys are particularly equipped to handle these cases, understanding all applicable occupational hazards and safety regulations.
Trucking Accidents The busy highways and extensive trucking industry in and around Dallas mean that collisions involving semi-trucks and other large vehicles are not uncommon. These accidents can result in significant burn injuries, especially if the truck is carrying flammable materials. The impact of a collision can cause fuel tanks to rupture, putting everyone at risk. Our team is adept at unraveling the complexities of liability in such scenarios, ensuring that negligent parties are held accountable.
Chemical Plant Fires The Dallas area has several chemical plants and industrial facilities where hazardous materials are processed. Fires and explosions in these plants can cause severe chemical and thermal burns to workers and nearby individuals. Proper storage, handling procedures, and safety measures are crucial to prevent such incidents. We collaborate with investigators and safety experts to reconstruct the events leading to these injuries, thus building formidable claims.
Industrial Explosions Industrial settings, such as those found in the manufacturing and oil refinery sectors in Dallas, are prone to explosions due to the presence of flammable gases and materials. Explosions can cause extensive thermal burns and other injuries. Regular maintenance, safety checks, and adherence to safety regulations are essential to minimize these risks. Our investigative skill in these claims brings responsible parties to light, forcing companies to take employee safety seriously.
Residential Fires Burn injuries may occur in residential settings due to house fires, kitchen accidents, or faulty heating equipment. Unattended cooking, overloaded electrical outlets, and the use of malfunctioning appliances can all lead to devastating fires that cause significant burn injuries to individuals and families in their Dallas area homes. We help victims address not only the economic aftermath of such events but also facilitate access to crucial rehabilitative and medical resources.
Motor Vehicle Accidents Car accidents in Dallas can result in burn injuries, particularly when vehicles catch fire following a collision. Fuel leaks and electrical faults can quickly turn a car accident into a dangerous fire hazard, putting drivers and passengers in danger of being trapped inside their vehicles and experiencing serious burns. Our Dallas burn injury attorneys’ strategy involves thorough accident scene reconstruction and collaboration with automotive experts to substantiate claims.
Electrocution Accidents Contact with high-voltage electrical sources can cause severe electrical burns. These incidents are common in construction and utility work, where workers may come into contact with live wires or faulty electrical equipment. Proper training and safety equipment are essential to protect workers from these hazards. We pursue accountability in these claims, promoting safer standards and practices within the industry in Dallas and nationwide.
Gas Explosions Natural gas leaks in homes, restaurants, and other buildings in Dallas can lead to catastrophic explosions if ignited. These explosions can cause extensive thermal burns to anyone in the vicinity. Regular inspections and maintenance of gas lines and appliances can help prevent such accidents. Gas lines must also be properly tagged and marked. By pursuing these claims, we not only seek redress for victims but also work toward broader safety compliance to prevent such tragedies.
As burn injury lawyers in Dallas, our team at Arnold & Itkin has the resources and knowledge to help after any type of incident that has left you or someone you love with serious burns. We can take on claims involving work-related injuries, defective and dangerous products, trucking accidents, and more. We can discuss your needs and how we can help.
Employers in Dallas have a duty to protect workers from burn hazards by implementing rigorous safety protocols and regularly maintaining equipment. All industrial or manufacturing facilities should conduct routine audits to ensure that electrical systems are up to code, outlets and circuits are not overloaded, and heating or production equipment is functioning properly. Companies must also provide training so workers understand how to handle flammable materials safely, recognize early warning signs of equipment malfunctions, and respond quickly to fire or chemical spill incidents.
In settings where chemicals or high-temperature machinery are present, organizations must supply appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including heat-resistant gloves, flame-retardant clothing, and face shields. Clear labeling of hazardous substances and well-organized storage procedures further reduce the risk of chemical burns and fires. Adhering to federal and state safety regulations—along with any industry-specific guidelines—helps prevent negligence and ensures a culture of vigilance on the job site.
By prioritizing proactive inspections, comprehensive training, and prompt hazard identification, Dallas employers can substantially lower the likelihood of burn injuries, safeguarding their workforce and surrounding communities alike.
Property owners, pipeline operators, and plant or refinery managers in the Dallas area play a critical role in preventing burn injuries among community members. Their responsibilities begin with maintaining infrastructure to the highest safety standards—ranging from conducting regular inspections and repairs to ensuring that all wiring, pipelines, or industrial equipment meet or exceed local, state, and federal regulations. By addressing potential hazards proactively, they reduce the risk of fires, explosions, or leaks that can cause burn injuries.
To protect individuals who live or work near these facilities, owners and operators should also have clear emergency response plans and coordinate closely with local authorities. This may involve installing early warning systems, monitoring pipeline pressure and refinery processes in real time, and promptly alerting residents when a hazard is detected. Facilities handling combustible materials must properly label and store them in compliance with fire codes, and they should implement comprehensive security measures to prevent unauthorized access. If owners fail to uphold these safety obligations and someone is harmed as a result, they may be held liable for negligence.
Types of Burn Injuries
There are three common types of burn injuries: thermal, chemical, and flash burns. While many people associate burns with making direct contact with a hot surface or flames, they can happen from many other sources. Understanding the different types of burns is crucial in both medical and legal approaches to treatment and compensation. By examining the burn source and the surrounding environment, we can more accurately assess liability and appropriate remedies.
There are seven main types of burn injuries:
Thermal burns occur when a person is exposed to hot liquids, gases, or surfaces.
Chemical burns occur when a person makes contact with a dangerous substance.
Flash burns occur because of proximity to a heat source, such as an explosion or flash fire.
Electrical burns result from contact with electrical currents.
Radiation burns are caused by exposure to radiation, such as the sun, X-rays, or radiation therapy.
Friction burns occur when the skin is rubbed against a rough surface, causing heat and abrasion injuries.
Cold burns, or frostbite, occur when the skin is exposed to extremely cold temperatures.
Dallas Burn Injuries & Co-Occurring Conditions
One of the most dangerous aspects of burns is co-occurring injuries. Those with burns often experience inhalation injuries because of the smoke and vapors they breathe. Inhalation injuries can cause lasting damage to the respiratory system, eyes, and other parts of the body. Inhalation injuries are one of the deadliest aspects of combustion events. Some studies attribute 60–80% of burn victim fatalities to inhalation injury. Recognizing these co-occurring risks is essential for proper medical and legal response strategies, ensuring comprehensive care and coverage for Dallas burn injury victims.
Symptoms of inhalation injuries include:
Coughing up phlegm
Irritated sinuses
Pain or tightness in the chest
Running nose
Scratchy, irritated throat
Shortness of breath
Stinging eyes
Headaches
Other studies have found that sepsis, largely caused by bacterial infection, is one of the leading causes of death during a burn injury victim's initial hospitalization. Severe burns put the human body into a deeply vulnerable state, not least because burns destroy the first line of defense against infection: the skin. Our Dallas burn injury lawyers know how to help survivors and families dealing with all the consequences of inhalation injuries, infection, and sepsis. We are committed to ensuring our clients receive expert care that addresses every facet of their recovery journey.
Degrees of Burn Injuries
The skin has multiple layers, and burns are categorized according to which ones are damaged. Some burn injuries are so severe that they impact the underlying muscle and even bone, resulting in lifelong disabilities or limitations. Knowing the depth and complexity of burn injuries is crucial for planning effective treatment and rehabilitation. This also plays a vital role in assessing legal compensation, as more severe burns often equate to higher medical and rehabilitative costs.
Burn injuries may be categorized as:
First-degree burns are the most common and only affect the first layer of skin. They result from quick contact with heat or a friction-causing surface. A first-degree burn only causes mild discomfort and will heal with minimal care. Most sunburns, for example, are considered first-degree burns.
Second-degree burns are slightly more serious than first-degree burns because they damage more than the first layer of skin. However, they don’t always require extensive medical care. A second-degree burn can be differentiated from a first-degree burn because it causes a deep redness of the skin and makes it appear wet or shiny.
Third- and fourth-degree burns are very serious, require immediate medical attention, and might change the rest of a person’s life. They extend past multiple layers of skin and, if severe enough, can even damage a person’s muscle tissue, nerves, and bones. Signs include white or brown discoloration, lack of blisters, swelling, and charring.
Burn injury survivors are most likely to call our firm for legal counsel after third-degree or fourth-degree burns, but we are poised to help after any serious accident or injury. We recognize the tremendous physical and psychological impact that a burn accident can have on a survivor and their family. As local burn injury attorneys in Dallas, we care about helping the people in our community get the treatment and support they need. We advocate fiercely to ensure they receive fair and just compensation that addresses both immediate needs and long-term care.
Legal Rights & Compensation: Why You Need a Dallas Burn Injury Attorney
Burn injuries can have devastating effects that extend far beyond physical pain. They often bring substantial medical bills, loss of income, emotional trauma, and long-term rehabilitation needs. It's essential to understand your legal rights and the types of compensation you may be entitled to. In Texas, burn injury survivors may pursue compensation to help alleviate the financial and emotional burdens caused by their injuries.
The compensation can generally be divided into two main categories:
Economic Damages
Medical expenses, including hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and more.
Lost wages and income due to time away from work during recovery.
Diminished earning capacity for burn injuries that impact your ability to earn a living.
Property damage, if any personal property was damaged or destroyed in the incident.
Non-Economic Damages
Pain and suffering for the physical pain and emotional distress you've endured.
Emotional distress for psychological effects of a burn injury, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
Disfigurement and scarring for permanent physical changes that affect your appearance and quality of life.
Loss of consortium for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support caused by a burn injury.
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded in a Dallas burn injury lawsuit. These are intended to punish the responsible party for particularly reckless or malicious behavior and to deter similar actions in the future.
Our legal team is adept at comprehensively evaluating each claim to seek maximum possible compensation, covering medical expenses, lost earnings, and the pain and suffering endured. By analyzing the unique circumstances of each incident, we formulate a custom-tailored strategy aimed at achieving the best outcomes for our clients. Our relentless pursuit of these damages sends a clear message about the seriousness with which we treat negligent behavior.
About the City of Dallas, Texas
Dallas got its first boost of economic growth in the 1870s with the construction of railroads, along with local production of cotton, grain, and leather. Oil began to dominate the Dallas economy in the 1930s with the discovery of petroleum in nearby Kilgore and additional discoveries in the Permian Basin, along the Texas Panhandle, and the Gulf Coast. Dallas quickly became an epicenter for transportation and oil and gas markets. This historical economic foundation has led to a diverse and thriving modern city known for its strong industrial, technological, and financial sectors.
Residents of Dallas have access to some of the nation's leading facilities for burn injury treatment and recovery. The Parkland Memorial Hospital's Burn Center is one of the largest and most renowned burn centers in the United States. This state-of-the-art facility offers comprehensive care for pediatric and adult burn patients alike, including emergency services, specialized surgeries, and rehabilitation programs. The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center collaborates closely with Parkland to provide advanced medical research and cutting-edge treatments for burn injuries. These institutions offer burn survivors in the Dallas area the support and medical attention they need to heal.
Call Our Dallas Burn Injury Attorneys for Help: (888) 493-1629
When you call Arnold & Itkin, you’re turning to a Dallas burn injury law firm that’s known nationwide for getting the results that clients need. In fact, we’ve recovered billions of dollars for clients by never backing down from a fight. We know people come to us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives, and we refuse to accept anything but the best for them. For us, winning a claim means helping a person rebuild after they’ve lost everything.
The Parkland Burn Center not only leads the care and treatment of burns in Dallas, but it ranks among the largest civilian burn units in the country. It’s also the first burn center in North Texas to receive verification from the American Burn Association. It treats more than 2,000 burn victims annually—a significant portion of the estimated total burn injuries that happen every year.
Who Is Responsible for Burn Injuries?
This depends on the situation. For example, employers who fail to provide a safe work environment can be responsible for burn injuries caused by workplace accidents they didn’t prevent. In other instances, a person who drives negligently and causes a car accident can be liable for the burn injuries others suffer because of it.
What Can a Burn Injury Law Firm Do to Help?
Our burn lawyers are focused on helping accident survivors secure the finances they need to move forward after their accident. Common losses a burn injury lawsuit can help recover include medical debt, lost wages, and the cost of future care. Often, those with severe injuries also deserve compensation for the loss of the ability to work, future care, and emotional suffering.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Your Dallas Burn Injury Law Firm?
Hiring a Dallas burn injury lawyer from Arnold & Itkin costs nothing. Our firm works on contingency fees. This means that we cover all upfront costs associated with a case and only collect a payment if we obtain results for a client. This makes our services attainable and risk free, and it helps clients have the peace of mind that we’re fighting for the best results possible.
What Is the Most Painful Burn Injury?
Strangely, intense pain is a favorable sign when it comes to burn injuries. First- and second-degree burns hurt more than third-degree burns because the damage hasn’t destroyed any nerve endings. Third-degree burns are more serious, in part, because they hurt less—at least directly. The tissue surrounding a third-degree burn is likely to be in severe pain.
What Is the Leading Cause of Death for Fatal Burn Injuries?
A 20-year study of pediatric burn injuries published in Critical Care found that the most common cause of fatality following a burn event was sepsis. The majority of these deaths were caused by drug-resistant bacteria. The study illustrated an often-misunderstood aspect of burn injuries: that they leave survivors in a medically vulnerable state for a long period, which inflates the cost of treatment.
