Burn Injury Lawyer South Carolina

South Carolina Burn Injury Lawyer

Burn injuries are a profound and life-changing event. If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, contact The Arndt Law Firm today to discuss your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

A burn injury can change a life in an instant. Beyond the immediate pain, burns often lead to extended hospital stays, repeated surgeries, and months or even years of rehabilitation. The physical scars can be severe, and the emotional toll is often just as deep. People may be unable to work, care for their families, or return to the activities they once enjoyed. Medical bills can pile up while victims face ongoing therapy and lost income.

In South Carolina, burns can happen in many different ways and settings. Some start with small kitchen fires in older homes around downtown Charleston or the historic neighborhoods near The Battery. Others come from grilling accidents on decks and patios in Mount Pleasant, Sullivan’s Island, or Isle of Palms.

Electrical issues in rental properties can spark house fires. Industrial sites in North Charleston and Summerville have also seen serious chemical and thermal burn incidents. Roadway crashes can sometimes lead to vehicle fires, especially on busy routes like I-26 and US 17.

South Carolina’s injury data dashboards show large numbers of injury-related ED (emergency department) visits each year; nationally, fire/burn injuries number in the hundreds of thousands. Burns in SC also account for many emergency visits each year.
Burn injuries often require specialized care beyond a single hospital visit. Early treatment and careful wound management can mean the difference between recovery and long-term disability.

At our firm, we understand that navigating the aftermath of a severe burn injury can be overwhelming. Our team at The Arndt Law Firm is dedicated to guiding you through this challenging time with compassion and expertise. Led by Attorney Jonathan Arndt, we bring extensive experience in personal injury law, particularly in representing victims who have suffered catastrophic harm due to negligence, unsafe property conditions, or defective equipment.

We prioritize your needs and work tirelessly to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. When you choose to partner with us, you are not just a case number; you are a valued individual whose well-being is our top priority. We are here to fight for your rights and help you regain a sense of normalcy after a distressing event. Your journey to recovery is important to us, and we are committed to standing by your side every step of the way.

A South Carolina burn injury lawyer familiar with local county courts and state insurance practices can give clients strong support during a difficult time.

Common Causes of Burn Injuries in South Carolina

Burn injuries can occur almost anywhere, from private homes to public spaces and workplaces. Common causes are:

Residential fires (especially in older homes or vacation rentals)
Cooking accidents (grease fires, malfunctioning appliances)
Heating system malfunctions (scalds, fireplace, and heater accidents)
Work-related incidents (chemical spills, hot machinery, steam)
Vehicle-related burns (crashes, fuel line ruptures)
Outdoor recreational activities (bonfires, campfires, fireworks)

Many homes in Charleston’s historic district were built decades ago, and older electrical or gas systems can pose higher fire risks if not properly updated or maintained. Faulty wiring and overloaded outlets can spark fires that spread quickly through wood-frame houses.

Vacation rentals on Sullivan’s Island and Isle of Palms often feature decks, outdoor kitchens, and propane grills. If those areas are poorly maintained or used without proper safety checks, sudden explosions or fires can cause devastating burns.

Cooking accidents are another leading cause. Grease fires on stovetops or grills can ignite in seconds. In high-traffic tourist rentals and beach houses, unfamiliar appliances and crowded conditions increase the risk of accidents. Water heaters and heating systems can malfunction, leading to scalding injuries. Fireplaces, space heaters, and candles used in cozy vacation homes can become dangerous if they tip over or come into contact with flammable materials.

Work-related burns are also a significant problem in South Carolina. Industrial areas around North Charleston, Hanahan, and Summerville use heavy equipment, chemicals, and high-temperature machinery.

Chemical spills, hot surfaces, and steam can injure workers in manufacturing plants, shipyards, and warehouses. Employers must follow safety standards to protect employees, but shortcuts and poor maintenance can lead to serious accidents.

Vehicle-related burns happen when collisions spark fires or cause explosions. Busy highways like I-26 and US 17 see heavy truck and car traffic daily. A severe crash can rupture fuel lines or batteries, posing a life-threatening fire risk to drivers and passengers. Mechanical defects, such as faulty fuel systems, can increase the danger.

Outdoor recreational burns are also frequent. Bonfires on Folly Beach, campfires in rural Charleston County, and fireworks displays can lead to unexpected injuries if safety measures are ignored. Visitors renting vacation properties may not be aware of local burn bans or safe fire practices, increasing the likelihood of accidents.

Each of these scenarios can leave victims with extensive medical needs and lengthy recoveries. They also raise legal questions about who is responsible. Homeowners, landlords, business owners, employers, and manufacturers can all be liable when their negligence creates unsafe conditions that result in burns.

Understanding South Carolina Personal Injury Law for Burn Cases

Burn injury claims in South Carolina fall under personal injury and premises liability law. Property owners, landlords, and employers have a legal duty to maintain safe environments and to warn people about known hazards. When someone is injured because a duty is ignored, they may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages.

Modified Comparative Negligence

Under this rule, an injured person can still recover compensation if they were partly at fault, as long as their share of fault is less than 51 percent.

For example, a tenant who tried to fix a faulty water heater without professional help might bear some of the blame. However, a landlord who ignored repeated safety complaints would likely still bear the majority of responsibility. If the court finds the injured person 20 percent at fault, it reduces any award by that percentage.

South Carolina’s Statute of Limitations

In South Carolina, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the injury. Missing this deadline can mean losing the right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong the case may be. Insurance adjusters may extend negotiations or dispute liability, risking delays in claims beyond the filing deadline.

The South Carolina Judicial Department provides public access to court procedures and deadlines, but navigating the system alone can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from a severe burn.

These cases can also involve multiple responsible parties and overlapping insurance policies. A landlord’s property coverage, a business’s commercial policy, or a manufacturer’s product liability insurance may all come into play. Determining who is responsible requires a thorough investigation and legal experience.

At The Arndt Law Firm, we understand how to build strong burn injury claims under South Carolina law.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt’s background in complex injury cases may include gathering maintenance records, fire investigation reports, and expert opinions to prove negligence. His familiarity with local courts and insurance companies can help clients avoid common delays and strengthen their claims.

Types of Burn Injuries and Their Long-Term Effects

Symptoms vary widely, but even a minor burn can leave lasting scars and limit daily activities. Medical professionals classify burns by depth and extent of skin and underlying tissue damage.

First-degree burns affect only the top layer of skin and may heal within a week, but they can still be painful and prone to infection if not properly treated.
Second-degree burns reach deeper layers, causing blisters, swelling, and intense pain that can last for weeks.
Third-degree burns destroy skin and nerve endings, sometimes extending into muscle or bone. These injuries usually require grafts, multiple surgeries, and extended hospital stays.

The physical consequences of severe burns often last long after the initial wound closes. Patients may experience nerve damage, limited mobility, chronic pain, and temperature sensitivity. Scarring and disfigurement can impact self-esteem and create emotional trauma. Some survivors develop post-traumatic stress disorder after the fire or accident that caused their injuries.

Burn recovery also affects family life and work. Victims may spend months away from employment while undergoing surgery or physical therapy. Parents may need help caring for children during recovery. Home modifications such as ramps, specialized beds, or wound-care equipment can add financial strain.

Charleston-area hospitals provide emergency stabilization, but most serious burn cases are treated at MUSC Health’s South Carolina Burn Center, the state’s only verified comprehensive burn unit. Some patients may travel to regional centers for specialized reconstructive procedures.

National data from the CDC and the American Burn Association show that an estimated 400,000 people receive medical treatment for burns each year, and about 40,000 require hospitalization.

Understanding the full medical and emotional impact of these injuries is crucial when pursuing fair compensation.

Proving Negligence in a Burn Injury Claim

Successfully recovering damages for a burn injury requires showing that another party failed to act with reasonable care and that this failure caused the accident. The process begins with gathering evidence as soon as possible.

Photographs and videos of the scene help preserve the record of what happened. Images of faulty wiring, charred appliances, or unsafe grills can strongly impact insurers and juries. Wide shots showing the property layout, lighting, and access points are as valuable as close-ups of the hazard. If firefighters or first responders were involved, their reports often include key details about the origin and spread of a fire.

Witness accounts provide essential support. Other tenants, neighbors, or coworkers may confirm that the property had known electrical issues or that equipment was poorly maintained. Written or recorded statements taken soon after the event are useful before memories are fresh.

Inspection and maintenance records can be powerful in premises liability and product defect claims. In Charleston County, rental and commercial properties require building permits and inspections under local codes. Still, the frequency and scope of inspections for rental dwellings vary by county and property type.

Work orders, safety logs, and prior complaints may indicate that an owner or manager knew of a dangerous condition but failed to address it. Fire marshal findings can establish code violations, such as missing smoke alarms, inadequate fire exits, or non-compliant electrical work.

Product-related burns add another layer of complexity. Defective appliances, heaters, or cooking equipment may have design or manufacturing defects. Proving product liability often requires engineering experts who can inspect the item and explain how it failed.

Insurance companies frequently try to minimize their liability by arguing that the victim caused or contributed to the accident. They may claim a resident ignored safety warnings, misused a product, or contributed to a fire. A strong case counters these defenses with detailed evidence and professional analysis.

A seasoned South Carolina burn injury lawyer can coordinate investigators, building experts, and medical professionals to show precisely how negligence caused the injury.

Timing is critical. Evidence can disappear as property owners make repairs or discard damaged equipment. Security camera footage may be overwritten quickly, and witnesses may become harder to locate. Seeking legal guidance early can help preserve these key elements and protect the injured person’s claim.

Damages Available in South Carolina Burn Injury Cases

A successful burn injury claim seeks to restore as much of what was lost as possible. South Carolina law allows victims to pursue compensation for economic and non-economic damages.

Medical Costs

Severe burns can require emergency transport, hospital stays, surgeries, skin grafts, and long-term wound care. Physical and occupational therapy may last for months or years. Prescription medications, special dressings, and infection control add to the cost. Some victims require counseling or psychiatric care to address trauma and anxiety.

Lost Income

Time away from work for recovery or surgeries can quickly add up. In some cases, burn injuries prevent a person from returning to their previous job or permanently reduce their earning capacity. When this happens, claims can include projected future income losses.

Pain and Suffering Damages

These damages recognize the intense physical pain and emotional distress caused by severe burns. Chronic discomfort, limited mobility, and visible scarring affect quality of life. Victims may miss family events, avoid public places, or struggle with self-confidence. These non-economic damages can be significant when the injury leads to lasting changes.

Additional Compensation

Compensation may cover home modifications, mobility aids, or personal care services if the injury leaves a victim with permanent disability. Certain claims may also consider the economic strain faced by family members who provide care.

The total value of a burn injury case depends on many factors, including:

the severity of the burns
the long-term medical outlook
the level of negligence involved
the amount of insurance coverage available

Insurance companies often try to limit payouts, but a well-documented claim supported by expert opinions can help ensure fair compensation.

The Arndt Law Firm’s Experience With Complex Injury Claims

Serious burn injuries often lead to complicated legal cases. Multiple parties may include property owners, landlords, employers, manufacturers, and insurance companies. Each may deny responsibility or try to shift blame.

The Arndt Law Firm has built a reputation for handling these challenging claims by combining detailed investigation with practical, client-focused representation.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt brings years of personal injury experience to burn injury cases. He can represent people harmed by unsafe property conditions, faulty electrical systems, defective products, and negligent maintenance.

His background includes working with expert witnesses, reviewing fire and safety inspection reports, and uncovering patterns of neglect that insurers prefer to overlook. Because he practices throughout Charleston County and nearby areas, he understands the local court system and how insurers and defense lawyers operate in South Carolina.

The firm’s Mount Pleasant location may offer valuable insight into the types of properties where burns often occur.

Coastal vacation rentals may have outdoor cooking areas, propane heaters, and aging decks.
Downtown Charleston includes historic homes with outdated wiring and limited fire exits.
Industrial areas around North Charleston and Summerville present risks from chemicals, high-temperature equipment, and heavy machinery.

This local knowledge can help the firm anticipate hazards and build compelling arguments about safety failures.

Clients often choose The Arndt Law Firm because of its personal approach. Burn injury cases can take months or years, and survivors need clear communication and guidance throughout the process. The firm informs clients about each development, from early investigation to settlement negotiations or trial preparation.

Victims know who will handle their case and receive honest advice on legal strategy and potential outcomes. This personal attention helps reduce stress while allowing clients to focus on healing.

Another strength is thorough preparation. Insurers recognize when someone has carefully built a case. The firm may gather photographs, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions to present a clear and convincing picture of what happened.

When necessary, attorney Arndt is ready to take cases to court. This trial readiness often leads to better settlement offers because opposing parties understand the risk of facing a well-prepared case before a jury.

Steps to Take After a Burn Injury

The decisions made in the hours and days after a burn injury can strongly affect health and any future legal claim. Many victims are overwhelmed and unsure how to protect their rights. Taking a few straightforward steps can make a difference.

1. Seek immediate medical care.

Burns that appear small may still cause deep tissue damage, nerve injury, or dangerous infections. Emergency departments and urgent care centers across Charleston County can provide rapid assessment and stabilization.

Following a doctor’s treatment plan, including specialist visits and follow-up wound care, is essential. Insurance companies often review medical records and may argue that an injury was not severe if treatment is delayed or inconsistent.

2. Document the cause of the burn.

If the injury happened in a home, rental property, or workplace, try to take photographs or videos of the scene before conditions change. Images of faulty wiring, burned appliances, damaged grills, or missing fire safety equipment can provide robust evidence.

Capture wide shots that show the overall layout and close-up details of the hazard. If firefighters or building inspectors responded, request copies of any incident or inspection reports when available.

3. Report the accident to the property owner, manager, or employer.

This creates an official record. In rental or vacation settings, notify the host or property company in writing and request confirmation of the report. Follow employer procedures for reporting workplace injuries, even if the burn initially seems manageable.

Keeping a copy of any written report or email acknowledgment helps prove that the incident occurred on a specific date and at a specific location.

4. Preserve physical evidence whenever possible

Save clothing, protective gear, or personal items damaged in the incident. These items may show the fire's or explosion's intensity and can counter claims that the victim’s behavior caused the injury. Store them in a safe place until the case is resolved.

5. Keep a careful record of expenses and the impact on daily life

Collect medical bills, receipts for supplies, and documentation of travel to appointments. If time away from work is required, keep pay stubs and employer notes showing lost wages. A simple journal describing pain levels, sleep disruptions, emotional stress, and lifestyle changes can strengthen claims for pain and suffering.

6. Avoid discussing the incident publicly, especially on social media

Insurance companies and defense attorneys may look for posts that suggest the injury is less severe or that the victim resumed normal activities quickly. Even well-meaning updates or photos can be taken out of context.

7. Consider seeking legal advice as early as possible

Property owners, landlords, employers, and insurers may reach out soon after an accident. They might ask for recorded statements or offer fast settlements before the full cost of treatment is clear.

A South Carolina burn injury lawyer can manage communication, preserve evidence before it disappears, and meet legal deadlines. In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years, but waiting too long can result in crucial evidence being lost and give insurers an advantage.

Contact The Arndt Law Firm Today

A severe burn injury can bring lasting pain, long medical treatment, and severe financial strain. Victims often face questions about how to pay bills, return to work, and hold negligent parties responsible. The Arndt Law Firm is here to help South Carolinians and visitors navigate these challenges with clear guidance and determined legal representation.

From its Mount Pleasant office, the firm can investigate the cause of burns, collect crucial evidence, review insurance coverage, and work to secure fair compensation for medical care, lost income, and the personal impact of a life-changing injury.

Attorney Jonathan Arndt’s knowledge of South Carolina courts, local properties, and complex injury claims helps clients stand up to insurance companies and negligent property owners.

Acting quickly can protect vital evidence and prevent mistakes that reduce a claim's value. If you or a loved one suffered a burn injury due to unsafe property, negligent maintenance, or defective equipment in South Carolina, help is available now.

Schedule a free case review and learn your options. Call (843) 469-8777 today to speak with an experienced South Carolina burn injury lawyer and take the first step toward recovery and justice.