Burn injuries are among the most painful and life‑altering injuries a person can experience. They often require extensive medical treatment, long‑term rehabilitation, and ongoing psychological support. In California, burn injuries frequently occur in workplaces, apartment buildings, restaurants, industrial sites, and public spaces — many of which are preventable.
California law holds property owners, employers, and manufacturers responsible when their negligence contributes to a burn injury. Understanding your rights can help you take the right steps toward recovery and compensation.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in California
Burn injuries can happen in a wide range of settings. Some of the most common causes include:
- Electrical fires or exposed wiring
- Gas explosions
- Kitchen or restaurant fires
- Chemical burns in workplaces
- Defective appliances or electronics
- Vehicle fires after collisions
- Scalding from hot water or steam
- Wildfires and outdoor hazards
Many of these incidents occur because someone failed to follow safety regulations or maintain safe conditions.
Types of Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are classified into degrees based on severity:
First‑Degree Burns
Affect the outer layer of skin; typically heal quickly.
Second‑Degree Burns
Damage deeper layers of skin; often require medical treatment.
Third‑Degree Burns
Destroy all layers of skin and may affect nerves, muscles, and bones.
Chemical and Electrical Burns
Often more severe and require specialized treatment.
Severe burns can lead to infections, scarring, nerve damage, and long‑term disability.
When Property Owners Are Liable for Burn Injuries
California property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe premises. Under California Civil Code §1714, they may be liable if their negligence causes a burn injury.
Examples of Property Owner Negligence
- Faulty electrical wiring
- Broken smoke detectors
- Blocked fire exits
- Failure to maintain fire extinguishers
- Unsafe water heater temperatures
- Negligent storage of flammable materials
If a landlord or business owner fails to follow fire safety regulations, they may be responsible for resulting injuries.
Employer Liability for Workplace Burn Injuries
Workplace burn injuries are common in industries such as:
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Food service
- Chemical processing
- Electrical work
California employers must follow Cal/OSHA safety standards, including proper training, protective equipment, and hazard controls. When they fail to do so, workers may suffer preventable injuries.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits
Employees injured on the job are generally entitled to:
- Medical treatment
- Temporary disability benefits
- Permanent disability benefits
- Vocational retraining
However, workers’ compensation does not cover pain and suffering.
When You Can Sue Your Employer
In rare cases, employees may sue outside workers’ comp if:
- The employer engaged in serious and willful misconduct
- A third party (contractor, manufacturer, property owner) contributed to the injury
Product Liability in Burn Injury Cases
Some burn injuries are caused by defective products, such as:
- Faulty space heaters
- Defective stoves or ovens
- Malfunctioning batteries
- Electrical tools or appliances
- Flammable clothing
Manufacturers may be liable under California’s strict product liability laws if a product is defectively designed, manufactured, or labeled.
Compensation Available in Burn Injury Claims
Burn injury victims may be entitled to significant compensation, including:
- Medical expenses and future care
- Skin grafts and reconstructive surgery
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Long‑term rehabilitation
- Home modifications or assistive devices
Severe burns often require lifelong treatment, making full compensation essential.
What to Do After a Burn Injury
Taking the right steps early can protect your health and strengthen your legal claim.
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Document the scene and cause of the burn
- Report the incident to the property owner or employer
- Save defective products or equipment
- Keep medical records and receipts
- Speak with a burn injury attorney
You can learn more about your rights by visiting Infinity Law Group’s Personal Injury page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue my landlord for a burn injury?
Yes — if unsafe conditions, code violations, or negligence contributed to the fire or hazard.
What if I was burned at work?
You may qualify for workers’ compensation and, in some cases, a third‑party lawsuit.
How long do I have to file a burn injury claim?
Most personal injury claims in California must be filed within two years, but claims against government entities require action within six months.
Are burn injury settlements higher than other injuries?
Often yes, because burns can cause permanent scarring, disability, and emotional trauma.
Conclusion
Burn injuries can have lifelong consequences, but California law provides strong protections for victims. Whether the injury occurred at work, in a rental property, or due to a defective product, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
If you or a loved one suffered a burn injury, the attorneys at Infinity Law Group are here to help you understand your options and pursue justice. Contact us through our online form for a confidential consultation.
