Though today it is nearly as common for a person to drink iced coffee, coffee is typically served hot. That means that when you go to drink from it, you expect it to be hot. Hot is not the same as scalding, a level that leads to a significantly high risk of injury.
If you suffered burns from drinking too hot coffee, our Philadelphia burn injury attorney is happy to meet with you to discuss your rights. Set up a free consultation with Kwartler Manus, LLC, to learn more.
How Hot Is Too Hot for Coffee?
There are dozens of recommendations about what temperature water needs to be to produce a good cup of coffee. For many, the ideal coffee brewing temperature is between 195 and 205 degrees. That is just under the boiling point of 212 degrees. It is at this range that the most effective extraction occurs, many would say. A lower temperature will create a less bitter coffee if it is a darker roast. Lighter roasts benefit from a slightly higher temperature.
However, this is the coffee’s brewing temperature, not the serving temperature. Most of the time, people benefit from drinking coffee at a much lower temperature. This typically falls in the range of 120 to 140 degrees. That range allows for a pleasant experience without the risk of scalding.
That middle ground in which coffee is at a much higher temperature is often where the risks of serious injuries can occur. When hot liquids touch the skin, it can cause a prolonged risk of injury and loss.
How Hot Is Too Hot for Water to Burn the Skin
The longer hot water is on the skin, the higher the risk of serious injury and burns. Water at 120 degrees can cause a first-degree burn, a burn that causes reddening and pain but no blisters. It takes about 10 minutes of exposure for that to happen.
By contrast, it takes just 30 seconds of temperatures at 130 degrees on the skin to cause serious harm. At 140 degrees, five seconds of exposure to the hot liquid can lead to third-degree burns. When coffee is served at this temperature, the risk of serious injury is high.
Potential Risks from Too Hot Coffee
A severe coffee burn can lead to significant outcomes and losses for the victim. Though every situation is different, the following factors could be considered real risks.
- Scalding accidents cause damage to the outer layers of the skin in seconds. These can lead to nerve cell damage as well as skin damage. Many victims will have serious burns if, for example, coffee is poured on them.
- Scarring and disfigurement could also occur. Scarring occurs due to injuries to the skin. However, scarring can be more complex in cases of serious burns and open wounds.
- Infection risks are high in burn victims. A burn creates a large opening where bacteria can flourish. These infections carry the risk of spreading through the bloodstream, which can prove to be fatal.
In all of these situations, the risk of serious burns that lead to damage to the skin is very high, and that means pain and suffering. If you are the victim of an accident like this, it is wise to seek out the guidance of an attorney.
The Complications That Come From Burn Injuries
As the victim of a burn, you may be facing the ongoing risks and complications from serious burns. Some of these losses include:
- Medical bills related to emergency care
- Reconstruction and cosmetic procedures to repair scarring and disfigurement
- Hospitalization costs for ongoing infections or challenges
- Lost time at work due to the injuries you have
- Pain and suffering from the incident and ongoing losses
- Emotional trauma and mental anguish from the experience
In each of these situations, a victim is faced with a long road to recovery. When that happens to you, it is your priority to focus on your health and well-being. Let your attorney fight for you to get fair compensation for your losses from the at-fault party.
Let a Burn Injury Attorney Help You Learn Your Rights
If you are hurt and end up with medical bills and other losses from the negligence of another party, you may have the right to pursue a claim against those who hurt you. Working with an experienced accident attorney is often necessary to ensure your case is fully understood and your rights remain protected.
With the guidance of a burn injury accident lawyer from Kwartler Manus, LLC, you will have better insight into your rights, and you can be sure those at fault will take your claims seriously. Set up a free consultation to learn more about how we can help you with your situation.