Understanding Texas Law

Texas follows a comparative negligence rule. If you’re found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced, but you can still recover damages as long as you’re less than 51% responsible. The statute of limitations is generally two years from the date of the injury.

Austin Court System

We routinely handle cases in Travis County courts and are deeply familiar with local procedures, judges, and pretrial motions that can impact your case outcome. Our team uses this knowledge to position your case for success from the start.

Local Experts & Resources

We work with trusted Austin-area investigators, medical professionals, and burn injury specialists to gather evidence, document your injuries, and establish negligence.

We also believe in proactive communication, keeping you informed at every stage so you can focus on healing while we handle the legal process.

Our Austin Burn Injury Case Process

Knowing what to expect from the legal process can ease some of the stress you feel after a serious burn. From the moment you reach out to us, we focus on building a clear roadmap so you understand how your case will move forward and what your role will be at each stage. While every situation is different, most cases follow a series of steps that allow us to gather evidence, evaluate liability, and pursue full compensation.

We typically begin with a detailed intake and investigation phase, where we collect medical records, incident reports, photos, and witness statements. In many Austin cases, this includes obtaining reports from agencies like the Austin Fire Department or Austin Police Department when they responded to a fire or explosion. As we assemble this information, we may consult with fire origin analysts, electrical engineers, or workplace safety professionals to determine how and why the incident occurred. This early work is critical to identifying all responsible parties and preserving key evidence before it disappears.

Once we have a solid understanding of what happened, we prepare a demand package that outlines your injuries, treatment, and the impact on your life. We then negotiate with insurance companies, property owners, or employers while always preparing as if the case could go to trial in a Travis County courtroom. If a fair resolution is not offered, we are ready to file a lawsuit, conduct depositions, and present your case with demonstrative exhibits and technology that help judges and juries see the full extent of your losses.

Types Of Burn Injuries And Long-Term Effects

Not all burns are the same, and understanding the nature of your injury is important for both medical treatment and valuing a legal claim. Burns can affect skin, muscles, nerves, and even internal organs, and the deeper the damage, the more likely you are to face surgeries, infections, and lasting limitations. When we evaluate a case, we look closely at the degree of the burn, the body areas involved, and how those injuries interfere with your daily life and ability to work.

First-degree burns generally affect only the outer layer of the skin and may heal with minimal medical care, while second-degree burns can cause blistering and require more intensive treatment and follow-up. Third-degree and deeper burns may destroy skin, fat, and underlying tissue, often requiring skin grafts, hospitalization, and treatment at specialized burn units in Central Texas. These severe injuries frequently leave visible scarring, contractures that limit movement, and a heightened risk of complications such as infection or chronic pain syndromes.

Beyond the physical damage, many burn survivors experience significant emotional and psychological effects that must be taken into account. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress are common, particularly when injuries stem from traumatic events like apartment fires or refinery explosions near Austin’s industrial areas. Long-term issues such as difficulty returning to prior employment, social withdrawal, and self-consciousness about scarring can affect relationships and quality of life. When we work with medical planners and other professionals, we seek to document these long-range challenges so that any settlement or verdict reflects not just your current medical bills but the full scope of care, support, and accommodations you may need in the years ahead.

Choosing The Right Burn Injury Attorney For Your Case

Selecting a lawyer after a serious burn is an important decision, and taking the time to compare your options can help you feel more confident about the path ahead. You will be sharing personal medical details and depending on your legal team to guide you through unfamiliar procedures in the courts that serve Austin and the surrounding communities. For that reason, it is helpful to look at both objective indicators of performance and whether the firm’s approach to communication and case strategy matches what you need.

When evaluating potential firms, many people consider factors such as trial experience, case results, and recognition from respected legal organizations. At Lyons & Simmons, LLP, our attorneys have tried complex personal injury cases in courts across Texas and have secured substantial verdicts and settlements for people facing life-changing injuries. Our partners have received honors from groups like the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association and national peer-review organizations, which reflects how consistently we prepare and present serious cases on behalf of injured clients.

Equally important is how a legal team interacts with you day to day. We place a strong emphasis on listening, explaining each step in plain language, and promptly returning calls and emails so you are never left wondering about the status of your case. Our firm is also able to assist Spanish-speaking clients, which can make a significant difference for families in Austin who are more comfortable discussing medical care and legal decisions in their primary language. By asking questions during an initial consultation and paying attention to how you are treated, you can decide whether our approach and values align with what you want in a long-term legal partner.

What Damages Can You Recover in a Burn Injury Claim?

You may be entitled to financial recovery for both economic and non-economic damages, such as:

• Past and future medical bills
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement and permanent scarring
• Emotional distress, PTSD, or anxiety
• Home modifications or long-term care costs

Severe burn cases often involve lifelong treatment, so we consult with economists and medical planners to ensure your future care needs are fully addressed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Steps Should I Take After a Burn Injury in Austin?

Seek immediate medical attention, even if the burn seems minor, to ensure your injuries are documented. Take photos of the scene, save medical records and receipts, and gather contact information for any witnesses. Avoid making statements to insurers without legal advice. Contact an experienced Austin burn injury lawyer quickly to protect your rights and build your case.

How Do I Know If I Have a Valid Burn Injury Case?

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as a landlord ignoring safety codes or an employer violating OSHA rules, you may have a strong claim. Our attorneys can assess your situation during a free consultation.

How Are Burn Injury Claims Assessed Under Texas Law?

Burn injury claims are evaluated based on the severity of your injury, the cost of treatment, and the impact on your life. Texas law allows for both economic and non-economic damages. As noted above, Texas also uses a comparative negligence rule — if you share some fault, your compensation may be reduced. A knowledgeable attorney ensures all aspects of your case are properly valued.

Why Is It Important To Hire a Burn Injury Lawyer in Austin?

Burn injury cases are complex and require comprehensive legal knowledge and prompt action. Austin-based burn injury attorneys bring critical insight into local laws and courts, which can influence the progression and outcome of your case. An attorney can help navigate insurance negotiations, provide access to witnesses, and prepare a case for trial if needed.

Furthermore, local attorneys are familiar with specific Austin judges and court procedures, which can offer nuanced strategies that might not be obvious to outsiders. Their deep-rooted community connections also allow for access to valuable local resources that can bolster your case.

How Long Do I Have To File a Burn Injury Claim in Austin?

Texas law generally gives you two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply, for example, if a government entity is involved. To protect your claim, speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

Take the Next Step with Confidence

If you or a loved one has suffered a burn injury, contact Lyons & Simmons, LLP for a compassionate and insightful consultation. Our team is ready to provide the support and guidance needed to navigate these challenging times.

By choosing us, you’re partnering with a team trusted by Austin residents for our record of results, personalized service, and deep local experience. Call (844) 297-8898 today to discuss your case and take the first step toward recovery and justice.

We believe in empowering our clients with knowledge and confidence, providing more than legal help, but a true ally in your physical, emotional, and financial healing.