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Understanding Burn Injuries

Burn degrees, TBSA calculations, and settlement factors

2026 Burn Statistics

485K

Cases/Year

40,000

Hospitalizations

9.2

Avg Hospital Days

3,400

Deaths/Year

Burn Degrees & Settlements

Burn DegreeAvg SettlementTreatment Cost

First Degree (Superficial)

Affects only epidermis, heals without scarring

$25,000$15,000

Second Degree (Partial Thickness)

Affects epidermis and dermis, may scar

$100,000$75,000

Third Degree (Full Thickness)

Destroys full skin layers, requires grafting

$500,000$250,000

Fourth Degree

Extends to muscle/bone, life-threatening

$1,500,000$750,000

Common Causes

  • Workplace accidents
  • Vehicle fires
  • House fires
  • Defective products
  • Chemical exposure
  • Electrical burns
  • Scalding liquids
  • Explosions

TBSA Multipliers

  • < 10%: Minor burns (1x)
  • 10-20%: Moderate burns (1.5x)
  • 20-40%: Major burns (2.5x)
  • 40-60%: Critical burns (4x)
  • > 60%: Life-threatening (6x)

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