Chemical burns are not the most common car accident injuries, but they can cause life-threatening and fatal consequences. They usually affect the skin, but chemicals can also enter the nose, eyes, mouth, and throat. Anyone who experiences this should get immediate medical attention.
What Causes Chemical Burns in Car Accidents?
A severe collision could crack the battery container, forcing the acid out. The machinery under a vehicle’s hood uses other chemicals that can cause burns and irritations. Airbags also have chemicals in them.
Burn Injuries From Car Accidents
Chemical burns are classified in the same way as other kinds of burns. Healthcare professionals classify them according to the amount of skin damage, depth of the burn, swelling, pain, and signs of infection.
- First-degree burns: These milder burns only affect the skin’s outer layer but can still be painful and take a few days to heal.
- Second-degree burns: These impact the outer and second layers of the skin, and may require skin grafting. These usually take weeks to heal.
- Third-degree burns: Third-degree chemical burns destroy the skin’s first two layers and penetrate the innermost one. In some cases, nerve tissues are also damaged. Surgery may be required, with significant, long-term follow-up care.
- Fourth-degree burns: As the most severe kind of burns, these injuries affect every layer of the skin, plus nerve tissue and muscles. Sometimes, bones are even damaged. Extensive medical treatment is needed for recovery, but fourth-degree burns can be fatal.
What Should I Do if I Have Burns From a Car Accident?
Spilled and splashed chemicals should be removed from the body and clothing immediately after an accident. The most effective way to do this is to flush the area with plenty of water, which is not usually possible after a crash. First responders will be prepared for these injuries and may put you in an ambulance.
If the chemical exposure is from ingestion or inhalation, respiratory support with oxygen may be administered. The medical interventions will vary, depending on the type of chemical and degree of the burns.
Any kind of serious burn injury can lead to complications, including significant scarring, disfigurement, and a limited range of motion.
Our Atlantic City Car Accident Lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm Represent Clients With Chemical Burns
If you suffered chemical burns from a car accident, our skilled Atlantic City car accident lawyers at D’Amato Law Firm can help. Call us at 609-926-3300 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Egg Harbor Township, we serve clients in South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.