Beaufort Burn Injury Lawyer

Burn Injury Lawyer in Beaufort, SC | McDougall Law Firm

Compassionate Burn Injury Lawyers Who Fight for You

At McDougall Law Firm, we understand how devastating burn injuries can be. Whether caused by a house fire, workplace explosion, electrical accident, or chemical exposure, these injuries are among the most painful and life-altering anyone can endure.

That’s why our burn injury lawyers in Beaufort, SC are here to guide you through the legal process with compassion, expertise, and relentless advocacy. You focus on healing — we’ll handle the investigation, the insurance companies, and the courtroom if necessary.

Call McDougall Law Firm now at 843-438-4386 for a free 24/7 consultation.

Why McDougall Law Firm Is Your Best Choice for Burn Injury Cases

Experienced, Compassionate Attorneys You Can Trust

J. Olin “Lin” McDougall, II has been representing injured victims since 1996, concentrating on serious injury and death claims, defective and dangerous products, medical malpractice, premises liability, and more. He has devoted 100% of his practice to litigation, fighting for clients in Beaufort and throughout South Carolina.

While the firm also includes Clinton Frederick Redfern, together they ensure that clients get personalized attention, with legal strategies built by attorneys who deeply understand both complex liability law and the emotional toll of catastrophic injuries.

Proven Results & Major Verdicts/Settlements

McDougall Law Firm has recovered significant amounts for clients: multiple confidential settlements exceeding $2,500,000 and $2,000,000, a $1,500,000 settlement for a personal injury case caused by a manufacturing defect (a surgical cart), as well as large recoveries from auto accidents, medical malpractice, truck accidents, and more. 
These results demonstrate their ability to handle high-value, difficult cases—just the kind of complexity involved in serious burn injury lawsuits that require proving liability, damages, and negotiating or litigating with large defendants or insurers.

Real Testimonials From Satisfied Clients

Clients regularly praise McDougall Law Firm for its professionalism, care, responsiveness, and personal touch. Some real quotes:

“My experience with this Law Firm has been nothing short of an A+. They were very informative with every step of the case … I not only recommend them, but I’d also use them again, should I need legal representation for anything else.” — C.M.

“Lin McDougall took my case on head on and I’m very satisfied with the outcome I would suggest anyone to come to this loyal law firm throughout the whole time they treated me like family …” — J.B.

“Outstanding attorney. Has handled my wife’s cases with appropriate aggression and professionalism. Highly recommended.” — S.L.

These testimonials confirm the qualities you want in a burn injury attorney: empathy, dedication, willingness to fight aggressively when needed, and keeping clients informed and involved.

Deep Local Roots + Statewide Reach

Lin McDougall has practiced in Beaufort since 1996, establishing strong connections in Beaufort County, Colleton County, Jasper County, and throughout the Lowcountry. w

“You focus on healing. We’ll focus on justice.” — McDougall Law Firm

Types of Burn Injuries We Handle

At McDougall Law Firm, we know that no two burn injuries are alike. Burns can happen anywhere — at home, on the job, in public spaces, or due to defective products. Each type of burn presents unique medical challenges, recovery journeys, and legal complexities. Our burn accident attorneys in Beaufort, SC have extensive experience handling every type of case, including:

Thermal Burns

Thermal burns are the most common and often the most severe. These injuries occur when the skin comes into direct contact with flames, hot objects, or scalding liquids. Common causes include:

• House Fires: Faulty wiring, defective appliances, or landlord negligence in maintaining smoke detectors.

• Restaurant & Kitchen Fires: Grease fires, scalds from boiling water, or unsafe equipment.

• Workplace Explosions: Industrial fires at shipyards or construction sites in Beaufort and Port Royal.

Thermal burns often require skin graft surgery, lengthy hospital stays, and rehabilitation. Victims are left with not only physical scars but also emotional trauma. Our burn injury lawyers fight to recover compensation for these lasting impacts.

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns can be especially devastating because they continue to damage the skin and tissue long after exposure. They’re commonly caused by:

• Industrial accidents involving acids, solvents, or cleaning agents.

• Unsafe storage of household or workplace chemicals.

• Exposure to hazardous materials in manufacturing or construction industries near Burton and Habersham.

Chemical burn victims may suffer disfigurement, organ damage, or vision loss. At McDougall Law Firm, we work with medical experts to prove negligence and hold employers, property owners, or product manufacturers accountable.

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns are unique because they often cause internal injuries that are not visible on the skin’s surface. They result from:

• Contact with faulty wiring or exposed electrical components.

• Power line accidents near construction sites or utility work zones in Beaufort.

• Defective consumer products such as space heaters, kitchen appliances, or electronics.

These burns can lead to nerve damage, cardiac complications, and permanent disability. Proving liability in these cases often requires deep investigation into code violations, defective product design, or negligent utility companies. Our electrical burn attorneys are skilled at uncovering these details.

Explosion Burns

Explosions can cause catastrophic burn injuries, often alongside blunt-force trauma and psychological damage. We represent clients injured in:

• Workplace Explosions: Shipyard welding accidents, gas leaks, or industrial machinery failures.

• Propane & Gas Tank Accidents: Home or commercial explosions due to defective tanks or negligent maintenance.

• Military Training Incidents: Fires and explosions during exercises at Parris Island Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

Explosion burn cases are complex, often involving multiple defendants — from manufacturers to contractors. McDougall Law Firm has the resources and determination to pursue justice in these high-stakes cases.

Radiation Burns

Though less common, radiation burns are among the most serious. They may occur in:

• Medical settings, such as radiation therapy errors or improper shielding.

• Industrial facilities using high-energy equipment.

• Military or government-related exposures.

Radiation burns can result in long-term tissue damage, cancer risks, and chronic pain. These cases demand specialized medical testimony and legal strategy. Our attorneys ensure victims and families receive the compensation needed for lifelong care.

Why Every Burn Type Requires Specialized Legal Help

Each category of burn injury requires a different type of investigation, expert testimony, and legal strategy. Thermal burns may call for fire origin experts; chemical burns demand hazardous-materials specialists; electrical burns often hinge on code violations or defective products. At McDougall Law Firm, we bring together the right professionals to build the strongest case possible.

Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for a free burn case review. We’re here 24/7, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Degrees of Burn Injuries and Their Impact

Every burn injury is painful, but the degree of severity plays a major role in both the medical journey and the compensation you may be entitled to. At McDougall Law Firm, we take the time to understand not only the medical classification of your injuries, but also how they impact your daily life, your career, and your family.

First-Degree Burns

First-degree burns affect only the outer layer of skin (epidermis). They are often considered “minor,” but that doesn’t mean they can’t be serious. Victims may experience:

• Redness and swelling.

• Pain and tenderness lasting several days.

• Potential scarring in visible areas like the face or hands.

• Psychological trauma, especially if the burn results from a traumatic event such as a house fire or car accident.

While many heal without surgery, the emotional scars can last long after the skin recovers. Our attorneys understand that even first-degree burns can disrupt your work, cause anxiety, and lead to unexpected medical bills.

Second-Degree Burns

Second-degree burns pe

netrate deeper into the skin, reaching the dermis. They are often caused by scalding liquids, grease fires, or chemical spills in the workplace. Victims typically face:

• Severe pain and blistering.

• Risk of infection without proper treatment.

• Permanent scarring or pigmentation changes.

• Possible skin grafts and extended recovery time

These burns often require hospital care and can leave visible disfigurement, which impacts both physical and emotional well-being. McDougall Law Firm fights for compensation to cover not just the medical costs but also the emotional toll of scarring and disfigurement.

Third-Degree Burns

Third-degree burns destroy both the epidermis and dermis, often extending into underlying tissues. They are among the most catastrophic injuries we see, usually caused by electrical accidents, explosions, or major structure fires. Consequences include:

• Complete destruction of skin layers.

• Numbness due to

•  nerve damage.

• Multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures.

• Long-term rehabilitation and physical therapy.

• Loss of mobility and ability to work.

The costs associated with third-degree

burns can be staggering — from lifelong medical support to reduced earning capacity. Our burn injury lawyers work with medical experts, vocational specialists, and financial analysts to calculate the true value of your claim so you aren’t left struggling years later.

Fourth-Degree Burns

Fourth-degree burns are the most devastating. They extend beyond the skin into muscles, tendons, and even bones. These injuries are often life-threatening and may result in:

• Amputation of affected limbs.

• Organ failure and severe infections.

• Extended ICU stays in specialized burn units.

• Permanent disability or wrongful death.

Families of victims suffering fourth-degree burns face not only overwhelming medical bills but also the grief of seeing a loved one in unimaginable pain. In cases where negligence or defective products caused these injuries, McDougall Law Firm pursues maximum compensation and, when warranted, punitive damages to hold wrongdoers accountable.

The Hidden Costs of Burn Injuries

Burn injuries — regardless of degree — often bring hidden challenges:

• Psychological care: Survivors frequently suffer PTSD, depression, or anxiety after traumatic fires or explosions.

• Cosmetic and reconstructive needs: Scarring, disfigurement, and loss of confidence can require long-term treatment.

• Lifestyle modifications: Victims may need home modifications, mobility aids, or vocational retraining.

At McDougall Law Firm, we believe your settlement should reflect not just hospital bills but the entire impact on your life.

Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is here 24/7, and you never pay unless we win.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Beaufort

Burn injuries often stem from negligence, defective products, or unsafe working conditions. Some common scenarios we handle:

• Residential Fires: Faulty wiring, landlord negligence, or defective smoke detectors in apartment complexes in Downtown Beaufort, Spanish Point, or Shell Point.

• Workplace Burns: Welding accidents, restaurant kitchen scalds, shipyard electrical fires, or construction site explosions in Port Royal or Lady’s Island.

• Military Training Incidents: Fires, explosions, or chemical exposure during exercises at Parris Island Marine Corps Recruit Depot.

• Industrial Accidents: Chemical spills or machinery malfunctions at manufacturing plants near Burton and Habersham.

• Vehicle & Transportation Fires: Car crashes, trucking accidents, or tanker explosions along Boundary Street and Highway 21.

If negligence or defective products caused your burn injuries, McDougall Law Firm will hold the responsible parties accountable.

Who May Be Liable in a Burn Accident Case?

When you’ve suffered a burn injury, one of the most important legal questions is “Who is responsible?” Determining liability isn’t always straightforward. Fires, explosions, chemical spills, and electrical accidents often involve multiple parties and overlapping responsibilities. At McDougall Law Firm, our burn injury lawyers in Beaufort, SC carefully investigate every angle to identify all potential defendants — because holding the right parties accountable is the key to securing maximum compensation.

Product Manufacturers

Defective products are a leading cause of catastrophic burn injuries. You may have a claim against:

• Appliance makers whose faulty heaters, stoves, or microwaves caused a fire.

• Auto manufacturers if a vehicle defect led to an engine fire or explosion.

• Consumer electronics companies when defective batteries (such as in e-bikes or laptops) ignite.

Under product liability law, manufacturers, designers, and distributors can all be held accountable. Our team works with engineers and safety experts to prove that a defective product caused your injury.

Property Owners and Landlords

Burn injuries often occur because property owners fail to maintain safe premises. Examples include:

• Apartment fires caused by faulty wiring or lack of smoke detectors in complexes around Downtown Beaufort, Burton, and Shell Point.

• Landlords who ignore building code violations, leaving tenants vulnerable.

• Commercial property owners who fail to maintain fire alarms or sprinklers.

South Carolina premises liability laws require property owners to keep tenants and visitors safe. If they fail, McDougall Law Firm will pursue damages on your behalf.

Employers and Contractors

Workplace accidents are a major source of thermal, electrical, and chemical burns. While workers’ compensation may cover some medical bills and lost wages, it often isn’t enough. That’s why we investigate third-party liability, which may involve:

• Contractors cutting corners on safety protocols.

• Employers violating OSHA safety standards in shipyards, restaurants, or construction sites in Port Royal and Lady’s Island.

• Vendors providing unsafe equipment or failing to follow fire-safety guidelines.

Our attorneys look beyond workers’ comp to uncover claims against negligent contractors or equipment manufacturers, ensuring workers and families receive full justice.

Utility Companies

Utilities are responsible for safely delivering gas and electricity. Unfortunately, negligence or poor maintenance can result in devastating accidents such as:

• Downed or poorly insulated power lines causing electrocution and electrical burns.

• Gas line explosions from leaks or improper installation.

• Transformer fires or failures of other electrical infrastructure.

These cases are highly complex, requiring technical experts to trace the cause. McDougall Law Firm has the resources to go toe-to-toe with powerful utility companies and their insurers.

Third-Party Vendors and Maintenance Companies

In many cases, liability extends beyond property owners and manufacturers to outside vendors, such as:

• Maintenance companies that fail to inspect or repair faulty equipment.

• Contractors hired to service heating systems, propane tanks, or industrial machinery.

• Cleaning companies improperly handling hazardous chemicals that lead to burns.

Even a single overlooked step by a third-party vendor can create life-altering consequences for victims. We hold every negligent actor accountable.

Multiple Defendants, Maximum Compensation

Burn cases often involve more than one liable party. For example, an apartment fire might involve:

• A landlord ignoring fire codes.

• An appliance manufacturer producing defective equipment.

• A maintenance company failing to repair faulty wiring.

By identifying every defendant, we expand the pool of available insurance coverage and increase the likelihood of a full and fair settlement.

At McDougall Law Firm, we leave no stone unturned in building your case. Our attorneys partner with fire investigators, engineers, medical experts, and financial specialists to prove liability and recover the compensation you deserve.

Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for a free case review. We’re available 24/7, and you never pay unless we win.

What McDougall Law Firm Does for Burn Survivors

When you hire us, you gain a team that:

• Investigates Fire Origins: Works with origin-and-cause experts.

• Preserves Evidence: Ensures faulty appliances, wiring, or safety equipment aren’t destroyed.

• Handles Insurance Companies: Shields you from lowball offers and recorded statements.

• Builds a Strong Case: With medical experts, engineers, and fire investigators.

• Fights in Court if Needed: We prepare every case as though it’s going to trial.

Schedule your free consultation today. No fee unless we win.

Real Case Examples of Liability

To show how liability plays out in real life, here are a few examples similar to cases we handle at McDougall Law Firm:

• Apartment Fire in Downtown Beaufort
  A young family was injured when a fire broke out in their rental unit. Investigation revealed the landlord had ignored repeated complaints about faulty wiring, and the smoke alarms were not functioning. We pursued claims against both the landlord and the property management company, securing funds for medical care and relocation.

• Workplace Explosion in Port Royal
  A shipyard worker sustained third-degree burns when a welding accident caused an explosion. While workers’ compensation covered some costs, our attorneys uncovered OSHA violations by a third-party contractor who failed to maintain gas lines. This opened the door for a separate negligence lawsuit, significantly increasing the worker’s recovery.

• Defective Heater Injury on Lady’s Island
  A homeowner was severely burned when a space heater malfunctioned and caught fire. Our investigation traced the problem to a design defect. By filing a product liability claim against the manufacturer and distributor, we helped the client recover compensation for surgeries, scarring, and lost wages.

• Gas Line Explosion in Burton
  Several residents were injured when an underground gas line ruptured, causing a sudden explosion. Liability extended to the utility company for poor maintenance and a third-party contractor for improper installation. We pursued both parties, ensuring survivors had access to ongoing medical support and damages for trauma.

These examples show how multiple defendants can be involved, and why a thorough investigation is essential.

Damages We Seek in Burn Injury Cases

At McDougall Law Firm, we know that burn survivors don’t just face physical wounds — they endure an uphill battle that affects every aspect of life. Medical expenses pile up, jobs are lost, and the emotional scars can last long after the skin has healed. That’s why our burn injury lawyers in Beaufort, SC pursue full and fair compensation — not just for your immediate needs, but for the challenges you may face for years to come.

Medical Costs

Burn injuries often require the most advanced and expensive medical care available. We seek recovery for:

• Emergency medical care and ambulance services immediately after the fire or accident.

• Hospitalizations and burn unit stays, sometimes lasting weeks or months.

• Skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic procedures to restore function and reduce scarring.

• Ongoing treatment and rehabilitation, including physical and occupational therapy.

• Future medical needs, such as corrective surgeries or long-term wound care.

We partner with medical experts and life care planners to calculate the true cost of lifelong treatment — ensuring you’re not left paying for someone else’s negligence.

Lost Wages & Reduced Earning Capacity

Burn survivors often can’t return to work right away — and some may never return to their previous profession. Damages in this category may include:

• Immediate lost wages during your recovery period.

• Reduced earning capacity if permanent disability prevents you from resuming your career.

• Job retraining or vocational rehabilitation costs if you must shift to a new field.

• Lost benefits and retirement contributions, which can be significant in long-term cases.

Whether you’re a restaurant worker injured in a kitchen grease fire, a shipyard welder in Port Royal injured by an explosion, or an office worker hurt by a defective space heater, we fight to ensure your financial future is protected.

Pain and Suffering

No two people experience burns the same way. That’s why we take the time to understand your personal story. Pain and suffering damages recognize the human impact of your injuries:

• Physical agony during recovery, surgeries, and therapy.

• Emotional distress and PTSD, common after traumatic events like house fires or explosions.

• Scarring and disfigurement, which can affect self-confidence, relationships, and quality of life.

• Loss of enjoyment of life, including activities, hobbies, or family moments you can no longer participate in.

We believe your settlement should reflect the full weight of your suffering, not just your bills.

Punitive Damages

In some cases, negligence crosses the line into recklessness. When landlords ignore fire code violations, when corporations sell defective appliances, or when utility companies neglect gas line safety, their conduct puts entire communities at risk.

Punitive damages are designed to punish wrongdoers and deter future misconduct. Our attorneys aggressively pursue these damages when gross negligence or willful disregard for safety causes devastating burn injuries.

How Much Is a Burn Injury Lawsuit Worth?

This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the honest answer is: it depends. Factors that influence settlement or verdict amounts include:

• The degree of your burns and the extent of medical treatment needed.

• Lost wages and reduced earning potential over a lifetime.

• Long-term care costs such as skin grafts, rehabilitation, or psychological counseling.

• The degree of pain, suffering, and disfigurement you’ve endured.

• The number of liable parties and their insurance coverage.

At McDougall Law Firm, we don’t believe in “one-size-fits-all” answers. Instead, we build a personalized damages model for each client, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible for your unique situation.

Why Full Compensation Matters

Burn injuries aren’t just medical issues — they’re life-changing events. Accepting an early lowball settlement from an insurance company can leave you struggling to pay for future surgeries, unable to cover therapy, or even unable to provide for your family.

That’s why our burn accident attorneys in Beaufort fight tirelessly: to make sure your recovery, dignity, and future are fully protected.

Call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386 for your free case review. We’re available 24/7, and you pay nothing unless we win.

Special Situations We Handle

Every burn injury case is unique, but some situations demand extra care, compassion, and legal strategy. At McDougall Law Firm, we understand that these cases involve more than medical bills — they touch on dignity, family stability, and even justice for loved ones lost. Our burn injury lawyers in Beaufort, SC are here to help with even the most complex circumstances.

Workplace Burns & Explosions

Workplace accidents are one of the most common causes of catastrophic burns in Beaufort, Port Royal, and the surrounding Lowcountry. Shipyards, restaurants, construction sites, and manufacturing plants all carry high risks of:

• Thermal burns from welding, hot surfaces, or grease fires.

• Chemical burns from unsafe handling of industrial solvents or cleaning agents.

• Electrical burns from faulty wiring or contact with live power lines.

• Explosion injuries caused by propane tanks, gas leaks, or machinery failures.

While workers’ compensation may cover part of your expenses, it’s often not enough to fully support long-term recovery. That’s why McDougall Law Firm investigates third-party liability claims — holding contractors, equipment manufacturers, or negligent vendors accountable in addition to your employer’s workers’ comp coverage.

Example: A Port Royal shipyard worker suffers third-degree burns in a welding explosion. Workers’ comp covers immediate treatment, but our team pursues a claim against a negligent subcontractor who failed to follow OSHA safety standards — unlocking additional compensation for surgeries and lost future income.

Children & Vulnerable Adults

Burn injuries are especially devastating when they involve children, elderly individuals, or vulnerable adults. These cases require a unique approach because:

• Children may need multiple reconstructive surgeries as they grow.

• Emotional trauma can be lifelong, requiring ongoing therapy and support.

• Vulnerable adults — such as nursing home residents — may face higher risks due to neglect, unsafe equipment, or understaffing.

• Long-term care costs can stretch into the millions over a lifetime.

At McDougall Law Firm, we fight for enhanced damages that reflect the lifelong impact of these injuries. We also bring compassion and patience when working with families, making sure every step of the process is handled with dignity and care.

Parents often ask: “Can I sue if my child was burned because of a defective product?” The answer is yes — manufacturers, distributors, and even landlords may all be held accountable when negligence harms the most vulnerable.

Wrongful Death from Fires & Explosions

Some burn injuries are so catastrophic that they result in the unthinkable — the loss of a loved one. When negligence leads to wrongful death, families not only face grief but also the financial burden of:

• Funeral and burial expenses.

• Loss of household income and support.

• Emotional distress, loss of companionship, and the irreplaceable loss of a parent or spouse.

Our attorneys have represented families across Beaufort, Lady’s Island, Shell Point, and beyond in wrongful death claims after fatal fires, apartment explosions, and workplace accidents. We understand that no amount of money can bring back your loved one, but justice can bring accountability and financial stability for your family’s future.

Why These Cases Require Special Attention

Whether it’s a military trainee injured in an explosion at Parris Island, a child burned by a defective toy, or a family grieving after a fatal apartment fire, these cases demand sensitive handling and aggressive representation.

At McDougall Law Firm, we bring both:

• Compassion for what you’re going through.

• Strength to fight negligent corporations, landlords, contractors, or insurers.

If you or your family are facing one of these difficult situations, call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386. We’re available 24/7, and you’ll never pay unless we win.

What to Do After a Burn Injury

1. Get Emergency Medical Care: Beaufort Memorial Hospital or Augusta Burn Center.

2. Preserve Evidence: Take photos, keep clothing/items, and document injuries.

3. Avoid Giving Statements: Don’t sign releases or talk to insurers without counsel.

4. Contact McDougall Law Firm: The sooner we act, the stronger your case.

Our Process: From Consultation to Compensation

1. Free Evaluation – no cost to discuss your case.

2. Investigation & Evidence Gathering.

3. Demand & Negotiation with insurers.

4. Filing Suit & Engaging Experts.

5. Trial (if necessary).

No Fee Unless We Win — McDougall Law Firm

Frequently Asked Questions About Burn Injury Lawsuits

What should I do immediately after suffering a burn injury in Beaufort?

If you suffer a burn injury, the most important step is to seek emergency medical care right away at facilities like Beaufort Memorial Hospital or a regional burn center. After stabilizing your health, you should document the accident by taking photographs of your injuries, the scene, and any defective products or hazards involved. Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies until you consult with a burn injury lawyer. Acting quickly protects your health and preserves evidence for a potential lawsuit – South Carolina Code § 15-3-530.

How much is a burn injury lawsuit worth in South Carolina?

The value of a burn injury lawsuit depends on multiple factors, including the severity of the burns, the cost of medical treatment, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and the degree of pain and suffering. Settlements can range from tens of thousands for minor injuries to millions for catastrophic burns requiring skin grafts, lifelong rehabilitation, or resulting in wrongful death. Because no two cases are alike, a consultation with an attorney at McDougall Law Firm is the best way to determine how much your case may be worth.

Can I sue my landlord if I was injured in an apartment fire?

Yes. Under South Carolina premises liability law, landlords are responsible for maintaining safe living conditions. If a landlord fails to fix faulty wiring, ignores fire code violations, or does not maintain smoke detectors, they can be held liable for burn injuries suffered in apartment fires. A burn accident attorney in Beaufort can investigate property records, inspection reports, and maintenance logs to prove negligence – South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act § 27-40-440.

Who can be held responsible for workplace burn injuries?

Workplace burns are often initially covered by workers’ compensation, but that is not always the end of the story. In many cases, third parties such as subcontractors, equipment manufacturers, or chemical suppliers may share liability. For example, a welder injured in a Port Royal shipyard explosion could file a third-party claim against a negligent contractor who violated OSHA standards, even while receiving workers’ comp benefits – 29 CFR Part 1910, OSHA Standards.

How long do I have to file a burn injury lawsuit in South Carolina?

In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases — including burn injuries — is three years from the date of the accident. If the claim involves wrongful death, the same three-year limit applies, starting from the date of death. However, cases involving government entities or certain product liability claims may have shorter deadlines. Contacting McDougall Law Firm as soon as possible ensures critical evidence is preserved and filing deadlines are met – South Carolina Code § 15-3-530.

What types of damages can I recover after a burn injury?

Victims of burn injuries may recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, burn unit care, reconstructive surgery, therapy, and future medical needs. Non-economic damages include physical pain, emotional trauma, PTSD, and loss of quality of life due to scarring or disfigurement. In cases of reckless conduct — such as when utility companies fail to maintain gas lines — punitive damages may also be awarded to punish negligence – Restatement (Second) of Torts § 908.

Are burn injury claims different for children or elderly victims?

Yes. Children and elderly victims often require more extensive damages because of their unique vulnerabilities. Children may need multiple surgeries as they grow, along with long-term psychological counseling. Elderly victims, including those in nursing homes, may suffer worsened outcomes due to frailty or neglect. Courts often consider these factors when awarding damages, making it critical to work with an attorney who understands the long-term medical and emotional impact of these cases.

What happens if a defective product caused my burn injuries?

If a defective product — such as a malfunctioning space heater, an unsafe propane tank, or faulty wiring in an appliance — caused your injuries, you may have a product liability claim. These cases can target the manufacturer, distributor, or even the retailer. To prove liability, attorneys often work with engineers and product safety experts to show that the design, manufacturing process, or lack of warning made the product unreasonably dangerous – Restatement (Third) of Torts: Products Liability § 2

Can families file a lawsuit for wrongful death after a fatal burn accident?

Yes. Families may file a wrongful death lawsuit when a loved one dies as a result of burn injuries from fires, explosions, or electrical accidents. These claims can provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income, medical bills, and the emotional pain of losing a loved one. At McDougall Law Firm, we understand no amount of money can replace a life, but we pursue justice to hold negligent parties accountable and to protect families from financial hardship – South Carolina Code § 15-51-10, Wrongful Death Statute

Why do I need a burn injury lawyer instead of handling the case myself?

Burn injury cases are highly complex, involving medical experts, fire investigators, product engineers, and often multiple liable parties. Insurance companies frequently attempt to minimize settlements by downplaying the severity of burns or blaming the victim. A burn injury attorney in Beaufort ensures you are not pressured into a lowball settlement and that your claim reflects the full scope of your injuries and losses

For answers tailored to your case, call McDougall Law Firm today at 843-438-4386. We offer free consultations, and you never pay unless we win.

Call McDougall Law Firm Today

Burn injuries change lives in an instant. Don’t face the journey alone. At McDougall Law Firm, our burn injury lawyers in Beaufort, SC provide compassionate counsel and aggressive representation to help you rebuild your future.

Call 843-438-4386 now for your free consultation — available 24/7.
Or fill out our quick form to start your claim today.