From Explosion to Recovery
Steve’s Workers’ Comp Success Story
We helped Steve, a 43-year-old field mechanic for an equipment rental company, secure a workers’ compensation settlement for second-degree burns that didn’t leave any scars. Steve’s injury was frightening. While performing routine maintenance on a portable furnace, it unexpectedly exploded, leaving him with second-degree burns on about 9% of his body. While the bones healed without scarring, Steve endured significant pain and required follow-up care from a wound specialist for three months. One of Steve’s main concerns was whether he could sue for his injuries. In South Carolina, employees generally can’t sue their employer for work-related injuries and are limited to workers’ compensation benefits. However, defective equipment from a third-party manufacturer caused Steve’s burns, which meant he could potentially file a product liability lawsuit against the furnace maker. These cases are costly due to the need for expert testimony and extensive technical work, making them only viable in cases of life-changing injuries or wrongful death. Thankfully, Steve’s injuries didn’t require this route. Securing a workers’ compensation settlement for burns like Steve’s often relies on factors like an impairment rating, work restrictions, and the need for future medical care. Steve’s injuries didn’t result in these, but he still suffered lasting effects. He described sensitivity to heat, skin irritation when exposed to the sun, and flare-ups that
made his skin burn and itchy. To manage this, he applied baby powder and fragrance-free deodorant daily and used Aquaphor to calm the irritation when flare-ups occurred. During negotiations, I presented this evidence to the insurance company, and we ultimately reached a $30,000 settlement. While Steve was pleased with the outcome, the most significant relief for both of us was that his burns didn’t result in life-altering scars or disfigurement.
*Past outcomes don’t guarantee future results. Every case is different, and all cases depend on unique facts and laws.
Good News
PUMPKIN PIE FRENCH TOAST
Ingredients
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” –Romans 15:13 (NIV) “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” –2 Peter 3:9 (NIV)
• 1 1/2 tsp vegetable oil, or as needed • 1/2 cup half-and-half • 1/4 cup canned pumpkin purée • 3 large eggs • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp vanilla extract • 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice • • 8 slices day-old bread • Maple syrup, to taste
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
Directions 1. Lightly oil a skillet and heat over medium heat. 2. Whisk half-and-half, pumpkin purée, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and pumpkin pie spice together in a bowl. Stir in walnuts until evenly distributed. 3. Place 1 slice of bread in the bowl and let it soak briefly to coat both sides. Lift bread to let excess liquid drip back into the bowl, then transfer to the hot skillet. 4. Cook for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown, then flip and cook the other side until done. 5. Stir batter to redistribute walnuts and repeat with other slices of bread, cooking in several batches if necessary. 6. Serve warm with maple syrup.
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Inspired by AllRecipes.com
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