Vehicle Fire Injuries/Car Fire Injuries
Vehicle collisions can become life altering and even fatal when a fuel tank is punctured. As a result, a fuel-fed fire can burst into uncontrollable flames that engulf the vehicle and its passenger, putting the passenger at great risk for severe injury or death. Due to the gas, oil, grease and other flammable liquids, the fire expands rapidly. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were 266,000 car fires in 2004 that resulted in 520 lives lost. In the United States, more people die in vehicle fires than apartment fires each year.
Vehicle fires have been reported to produce heat over 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. Toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, are released during a vehicle fire. The extreme pressure created by the intense heat can cause permanent injuries including severe scarring.
A burn injury is extremely painful and may require months of hospitalization in the burn unit, and years of medical treatment. Severe burns can affect the airway and digestion and impair other bodily functions. Recovery often depends on the severity and location of the burn. Treatment for burn victims focuses on the following:
- Limiting fluid loss
- Preventing infections
- Pain management
- Skin-graft surgery
- Scar reduction
The number one cause of motor vehicle fire injury is "mechanical or design" defect for which a vehicle manufacturer or repairperson may be held liable. The most common causes for vehicle fire include:
- Car crash fires—A rear-end collision may damage a gas tank or a drive shaft may pierce the gas tank. Incorrectly placed gas tanks or unshielded fuel systems can cause fuel-fed fires, resulting in serious burns or wrongful death.
- Exhaust system fires—An improperly installed muffler and exhaust system can ignite a dangerous car fire.
- Faulty wiring—Ignition system wires and other electrical wiring can short out and cause a spark that ignites a car fire.
- Fluid leak—Damaged fuel lines, hoses, caps and filters can cause flammable fluid leaks that can catch fire.
If you or a loved one has sustained severe burns from a vehicle fire contact Brett H. Oppenheimer PLLC, today for a free consultation. He and his dedicated team will investigate your claims. While you focus on recovery, Brett will focus on preparing your case.
