Third-Degree Burn Injury Settlements in Ohio

Suffering a third-degree burn is a life-changing event. In an instant, your world can be turned upside down by someone else’s negligence, whether it’s a workplace explosion, a car accident, or a defective product. Beyond the excruciating pain, you’re likely worried about mounting medical bills, time away from work, and how you’ll provide for your family during recovery.

At The Jones Firm, we understand what you’re going through. When clients come to us after suffering severe burns, one of their most pressing questions is about the potential value of their claim. While every case is unique, this guide will help you understand the factors that influence burn injury settlements in Ohio.

What Are Third-Degree Burns? Signs, Dangers, and Long-Term Effects

Third-degree burns (also called full-thickness burns) are the most serious burns that don’t require immediate amputation. They destroy all layers of skin and can damage underlying tissues, including:

• Subcutaneous fat
• Muscles
• Tendons
• Nerves
• Blood vessels
• Bones (in extreme cases)

Unlike first or second-degree burns, third-degree burns:

• Often appear dry, leathery, and charred (black, brown, or white)
• May not be painful in the center if nerve endings are destroyed
• Always require medical attention and may require hospitalization
• Almost always result in significant scarring or disfigurement
• Can lead to life-threatening complications such as infections, shock, and organ failure

What Medical Treatment Do Third-Degree Burns Require?

The medical care required for third-degree burns is extensive and expensive, often involving:

• Emergency room treatment
• Specialized burn center care
• Multiple surgeries
• Skin grafting procedures
• Wound cleaning and dressing changes
• IV fluids and nutrition
• Pain management
• Infection prevention
• Physical therapy
• Potential reconstructive surgery
• Psychological counseling for trauma and adjustment

The cost of this care can quickly reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars, depending on the extent of the burns and the length of hospitalization required.

Factors That Affect Burn Injury Settlement Values in Ohio

When determining potential compensation for third-degree burns, multiple factors come into play. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations for your case.

1. Medical Expenses (Current and Future)

The most straightforward component of a burn injury claim is medical expenses. Under Ohio law, you’re entitled to compensation for all reasonable medical costs related to your burn injury, including:

• Emergency treatment
• Hospital stays
• Surgeries
• Specialist visits
• Prescription medications
• Physical therapy
• Psychological therapy
• Medical equipment
• Home modifications (if needed)
• Future medical procedures

For severe third-degree burns, future medical costs can be substantial, as multiple surgeries and ongoing care may be required for years to come.

2. Lost Income and Earning Capacity

Serious burn injuries typically require extended time away from work. Your claim may include:

• Wages lost during recovery
• Lost bonuses or commissions
• Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous occupation
• Complete loss of future income if you’re permanently disabled

Ohio law allows burn victims to recover both past lost wages and the projected value of reduced future earnings.

3. Pain and Suffering

Burns are widely recognized as among the most painful injuries a person can experience. In Ohio, you can seek compensation for:

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional and psychological suffering
• Mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Inconvenience and disruption to normal activities

It’s important to note that Ohio does have caps on non-economic damages in some personal injury cases. However, these caps may not apply in cases involving “permanent and substantial physical deformity,” which includes many serious burn cases.

4. Permanent Disfigurement and Scarring

Third-degree burns almost always leave permanent scarring. The psychological impact of this disfigurement can be devastating. Compensation can include:

• The physical effects of scarring
• Emotional suffering due to altered appearance
• Impact on personal relationships
• Impact on social interactions and opportunities
• Loss of self-esteem or confidence

5. Liability and Negligence Factors

How your burn occurred plays a significant role in your case’s value:

• Clear liability by the defendant typically leads to higher settlements
• Multiple responsible parties may increase potential compensation sources
• Ohio’s comparative negligence laws reduce your recovery if you’re found partially at fault
• If you’re more than 50% responsible for your injury, you may not recover damages under Ohio law

6. Insurance Policy Limits

The insurance coverage available from the responsible party can affect your settlement. While policy limits don’t change what your case is worth, they can impact what you’re actually able to recover unless the defendant has substantial personal assets.

When Must You File a Burn Injury Claim in Ohio?

Ohio has a strict two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including burn injuries (Ohio Revised Code § 2305.10). This means you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit, with limited exceptions.

Failing to file within this timeframe usually means losing your right to compensation entirely. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after suffering a burn injury.

Why You Need an Experienced Burn Injury Attorney

Burn injury cases are complex and require specialized knowledge. Insurance companies know that burn injuries often result in high settlement values, so they fight these claims aggressively. An experienced attorney can:

• Properly value all aspects of your claim
• Identify all potentially liable parties
• Work with medical experts to document your injuries and future needs
• Build a compelling case supported by strong evidence
• Handle all communications with insurance companies
• Negotiate for the maximum possible settlement
• Take your case to trial if necessary

How We Help Burn Injury Victims at The Jones Firm

At The Jones Firm, we treat you like family, not just another client. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that serious burn injuries take on victims and their families.

When you work with us, you’ll have direct communication with Attorney Geoff Jones, who will take the time to understand your unique situation. We’ll guide you through every step of the legal process while you focus on your recovery.

We believe in providing personalized attention to every client. By taking the time to discover the details that others might miss, we ensure that no dollar is left behind in your settlement.

Contact The Jones Firm for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has suffered third-degree burns due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Contact The Jones Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.

Call us or complete our contact form to schedule your free consultation. Remember, you pay no fees unless we win your case.