Suing for Burns After a Truck Accident in South Carolina

A truck accident in South Carolina can easily lead to serious burns. Those who suffer burns may wonder whether their lives will ever truly be the same. These individuals often struggle with a range of both psychological and physical health issues, and they may never fully recover. Faced with these issues, you may be wondering whether or not you can sue and recover compensation.

Why Are Serious Burns More Likely After Truck Accidents? 

Serious burns can be more likely after truck accidents compared to different kinds of accidents. This is for several reasons. First of all, commercial trucks generally have larger gas tanks that can carry more fuel. At any given time, these fuel tanks may be filled with serious levels of gas. In the event of a collision, even a slight rupture may cause the fuel to leak. If this leak or rupture is followed by even the merest spark, it can cause the truck to ignite and explode. All vehicles caught in the vicinity will also be consumed by flames, and this can lead to some of the most catastrophic injuries imaginable for motorists.

Serious burns are also more likely because trucks tend to carry flammable or explosive cargo. The most obvious example is a fuel truck, which carries many decaliters of liquid fuel. Other trucks may carry fertilizer, explosives, or even radioactive material. The potential for both explosions and environmental hazards is high – and this cargo increases the chances of burn-related injuries.

Finally, trucks can cause serious damage to vehicles – potentially causing mangled wreckage that traps victims within. These entrapped victims may not have the ability or the time to escape the wreckage, and they may be powerless to avoid encroaching flames. This can lead to disfigurement, intense pain, and death. Sometimes, victims are knocked out by initial impacts with trucks – and they subsequently suffer burns while unconscious.

Can I Sue for Burns in South Carolina? 

You can sue for burn-related injuries in South Carolina, and these are generally seen as “disfigurements” according to personal injury law. This means that you stand to receive more compensation for these injuries compared to other, non-disfiguring health concerns. South Carolina courts recognize that disfigurements can affect your self-esteem, psychological well-being, and even your employability. As such, you could receive a much higher settlement compared to other truck accident victims.

Find a Qualified, Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer in South Carolina 

If you have been searching for a qualified, experienced Charleston truck accident lawyer, look no further than Mickelsen Dalton, LLC. We know how dangerous truck accidents can be – and we are well aware of their tendency to cause serious burns. Although the road to recovery may seem daunting, we can help you pursue the compensation you need. This compensation can cover your medical expenses, missed wages, emotional distress, and much more. Reach out today to get started with a consultation.

Sources: 

who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/burns#:~:text=A%20burn%20is%20an%20injury,hot%20solids%20(contact%20burns)

wbtv.com/2024/03/03/troopers-box-truck-crashes-into-gastonia-church-driver-charged/