Table of Contents
A Track Record of Success with Burn Injury Cases
With so much at stake, your choice in legal representation could not be more important. It is crucial to work with a firm that has extensive trial experience and the resources to overcome whichever obstacles may stand in your way. Through the years, Arnold & Itkin has handled numerous burn injury lawsuits, securing life-changing settlements and verdicts for our clients and their families. For a proven burn injury firm in New Mexico, you need look no further.
We have a history of success representing burn injury survivors and families who have lost loved ones to catastrophic burns, including the following:
- $222 million record-breaking verdict for the widow of a man who suffered fatal burns in an industrial accident.
- $177.5 million settlement for several workers burned in an industrial explosion.
- $164.5 million settlement for the family of a worker burned to death in a fire at an oil and gas facility.
- $125 million settlement for the widow of a dredge worker who was fatally burned in an offshore explosion.
- $92.7 million record-setting settlement for a man who was severely burned in a workplace accident.
- $87 million settlement for a man who suffered life-threatening burn injuries at work.
We cannot guarantee results (and no attorney should) but we can guarantee that, when we take a case, we give it our all. We take the time to get to know our clients and work tirelessly to seek the best possible outcome.
Common Causes of Burn Injuries in Albuquerque & Throughout New Mexico
New Mexico’s diverse economy includes high-risk industries where workers and residents face a heightened risk of serious burns. From oil refineries and electrical utilities to labs, hospitals, and military installations, the Albuquerque area is no stranger to industrial and commercial operations that can lead to devastating accidents. Our team has represented victims of some of the worst burn incidents in the country—and we know the long-term toll these injuries take.
In and around Albuquerque, people may suffer burn injuries due to:
- Oilfield & Refinery Explosions: New Mexico’s oil and gas fields, particularly in the Permian Basin, rely on heavy equipment, flammable chemicals, and high-pressure systems that can erupt into catastrophic fires or explosions.
- Electrical Burns on Job Sites: Construction, utility, and maintenance workers face serious risk from arc flashes, faulty wiring, and transformer malfunctions. Albuquerque’s continued urban development only increases this risk.
- Chemical Exposure in Labs & Hospitals: With a concentration of labs, medical centers, and research facilities like those near the University of New Mexico and Sandia National Laboratories, chemical burns are a very real danger.
- Residential Gas Explosions: Albuquerque has seen home explosions caused by natural gas leaks—the result of aging infrastructure or negligence. One such incident involved a “gas pocket” that caused a Nob Hill home to explode.
- Vehicle Fires After Crashes: I-40 and I-25 are heavily trafficked corridors where high-speed crashes can result in post-collision fires or explosions, especially involving large commercial trucks carrying hazardous cargo.
- Wildfires & Controlled Burn Accidents: New Mexico’s arid climate increases the risk of fast-moving wildfires, and even controlled burns can spiral out of control when managed improperly, putting workers and residents in danger.
When companies fail to follow safety protocols, conduct proper maintenance, or train employees adequately, burn injuries are not “accidents”—they’re the result of negligence. Arnold & Itkin fights for victims who have suffered catastrophic burns due to the careless actions of others. We represent clients in New Mexico and nationwide.
Understanding New Mexico Burn Injury Laws
When a person suffers a severe burn because someone else cut corners or made a careless mistake, New Mexico law provides a path to justice. Burn injury lawsuits in New Mexico are governed by the state’s personal injury laws, which allow victims to seek compensation from any individual, company, or entity whose negligence caused their injuries. Whether the burns occurred in an oilfield explosion, apartment fire, industrial accident, or vehicle crash, holding the right party accountable starts with knowing the law.
New Mexico follows a pure comparative fault system. This means your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault—but even if you’re found partially responsible, you may still recover damages. For example, if you were awarded $1 million but found 20% at fault, your recovery would be $800,000. This makes it vital to investigate every detail of the accident, secure expert testimony, and counter any attempt to shift blame onto the victim.
It’s also important to act fast. New Mexico’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the injury. Miss that window, and your case could be dismissed—no matter how strong it is. Our firm works quickly to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and build the strongest case possible for trial.
Local Resources for Burn Injury Rehabilitation
Surviving a burn is only the beginning. Recovery requires time, resources, and specialized care—especially for victims facing long-term physical and emotional trauma. Fortunately, Albuquerque is home to several world-class facilities and community resources that support burn survivors on the road to healing.
At the University of New Mexico Hospital Burn Center, patients receive expert treatment for both emergency and long-term burn care. The center offers advanced wound care, infection control, skin grafting, and specialized rehabilitation services. It’s the only American Burn Association-verified burn center in New Mexico.
Beyond the hospital walls, recovery is also emotional. Local support groups give survivors and families a space to connect with others who understand their pain, setbacks, and victories. These resources can be critical in restoring a sense of control and community during what often feels like an overwhelming journey.
Our New Mexico burn injury attorneys have seen the difference that access to quality care and strong legal advocacy can make. That’s why we fight relentlessly—to ensure our clients have the means to get the best treatment and move forward with dignity.
After a Burn Injury
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first and most important step is to seek immediate medical attention. Burns can cause severe damage not only to the skin but also to underlying tissues and organs. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for professional medical care. Prompt treatment can prevent complications, reduce pain, and improve the chances of a full recovery.
Document the Incident
If possible, document the scene of the accident. Take photographs of the location, the cause of the burn (such as a faulty appliance, spilled chemicals, or fire), and your injuries. This documentation can be vital for any future legal claims. Additionally, try to gather contact information from any witnesses who saw the incident occur.
Report the Injury
Inform your employer, property owner, or any relevant authority about the burn injury, especially if it occurred at work or on someone else's property. Filing an official report creates a record of the incident and can be crucial for workers’ compensation or personal injury claims. When you report the burn injury, keep a copy for your records.
Follow Medical Advice
Adhere strictly to the medical advice and treatment plan provided by healthcare professionals. This may include wound care, medications, physical therapy, and follow-up appointments. If you are seeing a “company doctor” or facility referred by your employer, remember that you may have the right to seek treatment elsewhere if needed.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, and any time taken off work due to your burn injury. This information will be important for calculating damages if you decide to pursue a legal claim for compensation.
Consult with a New Mexico Burn Injury Attorney
Speak with an attorney to better understand your legal rights and options—so you can make informed choices about your case. An experienced personal injury attorney in New Mexico can help you determine your best course of legal action, identify liable parties, and seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
By taking these steps after a burn injury, you can protect your health, preserve important evidence, and seek the compensation you deserve for your recovery and future well-being.
Why You Need a Burn Injury Lawyer in New Mexico
Hiring a skilled burn injury lawyer in New Mexico can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Burn injuries often result in extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and significant financial burdens. By consulting an attorney early on, you can gain a clear understanding of your legal rights and the potential value of your New Mexico burn injury lawsuit. Early legal intervention allows your lawyer to gather crucial evidence, document your injuries, and start building a strong strategy against all responsible parties before important details are lost or forgotten.
If our team takes your case, we will manage all aspects, including negotiations with insurance companies and representation in court if necessary. This allows you to focus on your recovery while we work to secure compensation for your losses and future needs. Our experience and dedication increase the likelihood of a favorable settlement or verdict, ensuring that you have the financial resources needed to rebuild your life after a burn injury. With us by your side, you can have peace of mind knowing that experienced professionals are fighting for your best interests.
A dedicated attorney can also provide invaluable support by explaining the complexities of legal proceedings in simple terms, empowering you to make informed decisions every step of the way. By taking a proactive approach, we pave the best possible path for your recovery and financial security.
Causes & Liability: Burns, Fires, & Explosions
Burn injuries can result from a variety of accidents and incidents that put people at risk of being exposed to fire, heat, electricity, radiation, or chemicals. They can occur in any industry to any type of worker, from plant workers to truckers, though some may be at a higher risk than others. They can also occur at home, on the road, or at another's property.
In New Mexico and across the U.S., serious and even fatal burns can occur as a result of:
These incidents are all very different, but they tend to have one thing in common: negligence. Accidental burns are often caused by some form of negligence, which can be defined as a failure to act with reasonable or proper care. For an employer, this may mean properly training workers and providing adequate safety equipment. For drivers, it means obeying traffic laws, paying attention, and taking reasonable measures to stay safe on the road.
Various parties may be held legally responsible for burn injuries:
- Property owners and landlords for failing to maintain a safe environment or neglecting safety measures.
- Employers for failing to provide proper training or safety equipment, or to maintain safe working conditions.
- Construction companies for negligence or failing to adhere to safety regulations.
- Manufacturers for product or design defects, or for failing to provide adequate warnings or instructions.
- Maintenance contractors for failing to properly maintain equipment or premises, resulting in unsafe conditions.
- Utility companies for accidents involving gas leaks, electrical malfunctions, or other utility-related incidents.
- Plant and refinery owners for failing to maintain equipment or adhere to hazardous material regulations.
- Trucking companies for negligent hiring or training practices, or for violating federal trucking regulations.
- Event organizers and promoters for failing to take adequate safety measures at a public event.
Identifying responsible parties is a crucial step in pursuing a burn injury claim. Our New Mexico burn injury firm has the resources and experience to investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury to determine liability.
Types of Burn Injury Compensation
The party (or parties) responsible for causing you harm should be made to pay for what they have done, and a personal injury claim can help you accomplish just that. It offers you the opportunity to recoup your losses and ensure your future is taken care of, through the recovery of economic and non-economic damages.
A New Mexico burn injury settlement or award may include compensation for:
- Medical care
- Medication and medical supplies
- Ongoing care
- In-home modifications
- Assistive devices
- Medical travel costs
- Lost earnings
- Loss of potential wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
In some cases, punitive damages may apply. These are rare and are typically awarded when the defendant (at-fault party) is found to have acted with extreme disregard for the safety of others. Intentional wrongdoing may also result in the award of punitive damages. These penalize the defendant and discourage similar conduct.
Determining the fair and full value of your case is one of the key aspects of providing effective legal counsel. By working with investigators, medical experts, economists, and professionals in various fields, our burn injury attorneys in Albuquerque build compelling cases that maximize our clients' recoveries. It's the only way to move forward.
Contact an Albuquerque Burn Injury Attorney Today
When negligence, overlooked safety standards, and defective products cause harm, our New Mexico burn injury attorneys at Arnold & Itkin are prepared to seek justice for the injured. In an ideal world, it should be easy to recover a fair settlement from your insurance company. Your employer should treat you fairly and put your safety first at work. You should receive the complete compensation it takes for you to rebuild after a serious burn injury.
Unfortunately, this is not how it works for victims and their families.
That’s why they need advocates who have the experience and resources to go up against large companies and their teams of attorneys and investigators. At Arnold & Itkin, we level the playing field between the injured and negligent corporations. Clients and defendants alike know our burn injury lawyers in Albuquerque will do whatever it takes to help.
For a free consultation, call (888) 493-1629. Our burn injury firm in New Mexico stands ready to fight for your rights.
