You might think that the 4 ^th of July holiday would see burns from fireworks. And it does. But you want to know the number one cause of Independence Day burns? It is your backyard grill. And you want to know the number one item that contributes to burns? It is not lighter fluid, not sparklers, not cherry bombs. It is alcohol.

Yes, drunk grilling is a real thing. It is not just a scene out of Chevy Chase’s Vacation movie. And here is the sad truth, the law is not going to be very helpful. Generally, the law will help when someone or something harms you. It can’t do much when you injure yourself.

Imagine this scenario (because it is pretty close to the facts in an actual situation): you are impaired, you put your hand in an open flame to grab a steak, the steak falls into the fire, the fire flairs, you try to put out the fire with a bottle of Tequila. Needless to say, the jury would probably not award you a big settlement.

Now to fireworks. Here is another possible scenario: you are impaired, the firecracker does not go off, so you try and light it again. And it goes off … in your hand. The law will ask who is to blame? If you want to collect, the answer had better be someone else.

If you do get burned, seek medical treatment. We are fortunate to have the Arnold Luterman Regional Burn Center at the University of South Alabama here in Mobile. It is the most advanced and comprehensive burn care on the Gulf Coast.

Burn accidents are some of the most catastrophic accidents I have faced. The scars, both physical and psychological, can be lifelong.

If you suffer a personal injury like an auto accident , or slip and fall, you can talk to us at the Law Firm of Eiland and Ritchie for free. We want to help you get back on your feet.

Also, join us on NBC 15 LawCall here in Mobile every Sunday night at 10:30, right after the news. We will take your calls live.

Allen Ritchie

Alabama Personal Injury Lawyer

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