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De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
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New York Fire and Burn Injury Lawyers

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen represent fire and burn injury victims in New York. For over 45 years, our firm has successfully recovered substantial awards and settlements for New York residents who suffered burns resulting from negligence, malpractice, and catastrophic accidents, including a recent multi-million dollar settlement in a flammable materials case, and a $1M settlement for an elderly individual who suffered second-and third-degree burns to his legs and torso. We work with medical experts and life-care planners to project lifetime costs for medical support, rehabilitation, and lost earnings, and prepare every case for trial. Contingency based, with no upfront fees to pay. All litigation costs advanced by our firm. Call today on (212) 732-2262 to arrange a free consultation.

Why Choose De Caro & Kaplen, LLP for Fire and Burn Injury Cases in New York

  • Specialized Medical Expertise: Our law firm addresses complex burn and fire injuries including skin grafting, infection risks, hypoxia, and the psychological impact of permanent scarring.
  • Integrated Life-Care Planning: We work with medical experts and life-care planners to project lifetime costs for medical support, rehabilitation, and lost earning capacity.
  • Comprehensive Case Handling: We represent victims of diverse burn types, including chemical exposure, scalding, electrical accidents, batteries, flash fires, and explosions.
  • New York Statutory Knowledge: Our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen manage strict filing deadlines, including the standard three-year statute of limitations and shortened windows for claims against government municipalities.
  • Contingency Fee Representation: When you hire De Caro & Kaplen for your burn injury case in New York there are zero upfront fees to pay. Our payment is contingent on the successful resolution of your case, and our firm advances all litigation costs.

A History of Multi-Million Dollars Verdicts & Settlements in Fire and Burn Injury Cases

De Caro & Kaplen has a history of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for our New York fire and burn injury clients. Recent cases which resulted in successful recovery include:

  • Multi-million dollar confidential settlement for our client who suffered devastating burns when the cotton nightgown she was wearing caught fire. Our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen demonstrated that compliance with the minimum federal flammability standard is not a reliable indicator of safety, and that the manufacturer’s negligence was responsible for our client’s injuries.
  • $1,000,000 settlement for our client who suffered severe scalding due to the negligence of a home care attendant.
  • Substantial confidential settlement for our clients who suffered severe burn injuries when a water heater exploded in the basement of their NYC home.
  • Substantial confidential settlement for a 28-year-old man, who suffered catastrophic burn injuries when a lithium-ion battery in his e-cigarette exploded in his pocket without warning.

View fire and burn injury case studies.

 

Our Credentials, Recognition & Track Record in Fire and Burn Injury Cases

  • Board-Certified Leadership: Partner Michael V. Kaplen is board-certified in Civil Trial Law and Medical Malpractice, ensuring trial-ready advocacy at all times.
  • Peer-Reviewed Recognition: De Caro & Kaplen, LLP partners Michael V. Kaplen and Shana De Caro are multi-year New York Super Lawyers.
  • Elite Trial Memberships: Membership in the Million Dollar and Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum reflects our history of securing significant settlements, such as a $1M settlement for negligent home care resulting in second-and-third degree-burns.
  • Work Directly With Our Partners: Our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen will handle your case from start to finish, with direct access at all times.
  • Covering NYC and New York State: Comprehensive representation across all five NYC boroughs, Long Island, Westchester, and Upstate regions including Albany, Buffalo, and Syracuse.

What Types Of Fire and Burn Injury Cases Can We Assist With?

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP represents New York residents in cases involving fire or burn injury where a third-party is liable due to negligence or malpractice. Some examples of the types of cases we've handled in our 45 years+ in practice include:

  • Building & apartment fire injuries
  • Chemical burns
  • Scalding injuries
  • Workplace burn injuries
  • Explosions & flash fires
  • Defective product burns
  • Vehicle fire injuries
  • Hotel & restaurant fire injuries
  • Nursing home fire injuries
  • Faulty batteries

We're ready to take on your fire or burn injury case. And we're fully prepared to go to court to make sure you receive every penny you're entitled to.

Client Reviews and Testimonials

De Caro & Kaplen LLP has a 4.9 star rating on Google reviews, aggregated from over 175 client reviews. Below are a selection of reviews from our clients.

Review by our client Allison Sansoucie

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My family needed help with a complicated personal injury case. I was fortunate to be referred to De Caro & Kaplen. Outstanding attorneys! Michael and Shana are reliable, intelligent, and dedicated advocates. There were a number of times I had specific concerns about the case and Michael was always steps ahead. The attention paid to details was truly remarkable. Shana and Michael always responded quickly to every call and email. Their assistant, Andy was consistently patient, kind, and helpful. They provided seamless referrals to rehabilitation facilities and elder care experts as needed. Shana and Michael consistently went above and beyond in countless ways throughout 2 1/2 years to ensure the most favorable outcome for my family. De Caro & Kaplen navigated each and every aspect of the lawsuit and mediation with professionalism and integrity. Incredible given the many delays due to COVID. I highly recommend De Caro & Kaplen."

Google Reviews

Review by our client April Bulger

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"After my first meeting with Michael Kaplen I knew I was in the right hands. He and his team are amazing. I would recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney that will get the job done while giving their clients a piece of mind. Complete honesty and candor each step of the process which I respect."

Google Reviews

Review by our client Christina Bentham

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Fantastic experience! Accepted to pursue my case with many challenges. Michael Kaplen never gave up, even when posed with a vicious defense attorney. He was always one step ahead of the attorney and beat her at ever turn. When I called, emailed, or texted, Mr. Kaplen responded personally. The customer service was terrific and I always felt their entire team was attentive to every concern I had. I highly recommend the DeCaro/Kaplen team and thank them for everything they did for me!"

Google Reviews

Shana De Caro & Michael V. Kaplen

Free Consultation

With over 45 years experience in fire and burn injury cases, our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen help our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. Our attorneys have the passion and persistence to take on any fire or burn injury case in New York—and win.

Call today on (212) 732 2262 or email help@brainlaw.com to arrange your free consultation.

Our Partners, Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen Handle Your Case From Start To Finish

When you hire De Caro & Kaplen, LLP for your fire or burn injury case in New York our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen will handle your case from start to finish. Unlike some other prominent NYC firms, who will hand your case off to a paralegal, Shana and Michael, who each have over 45 years experience in personal injury and medical malpractice law, will personally work on your behalf to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve, preparing every case as if it will go to trial.

Shana De Caro - Senior Partner and Personal Injury attorney at the New York law firm De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Shana De Caro - Senior Partner and Personal Injury Attorney

  • Over 45 years of experience specifically handling complex medical malpractice, personal injury, and fire and burn injury litigation in New York.
  • Multi-year New York Super Lawyer.
  • A history of multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for her fire and burn injury clients.
  • Served two terms as Chairwoman of The Brain Injury Association of America
  • Served as Secretary and Trustee of the Civil Justice Foundation, supporting public interest litigation and access to the civil justice system
  • Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and Litigation Counsel of America.
  • Member of the Board of Directors of the New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers.
  • Published in New York Law Journal, National Law Journal, Trial Magazine, Psychiatric Clinics of North America.
  • Lecturer for the American Association for Justice, New York State Academy of Trial Lawyers, and North American Brain Injury Society.
  • Recognized for advancing standards of practice in brain injury and medical negligence litigation.

Read Shana De Caro's full bio.

Michael V. Kaplen - Senior Partner and personal injury attorney at the New York law firm De Caro & Kaplen, LLP

Michael V. Kaplen - Senior Partner and Personal Injury Attorney

  • Over 45 years of experience specifically handling complex medical malpractice, personal injury, and fire and burn injury litigation in New York.
  • Multi-year New York Super Lawyer.
  • A history of multi-million dollar award settlements for his fire and burn injury clients.
  • Served as member of the New York State Supreme Court medical malpractice review panels.
  • Triple board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy in: Civil Trial Law, Medical Malpractice, Civil Pretrial Practice Advocacy
  • Professorial Lecturer in Law, The George Washington University Law School (“The Legal Aspects of Traumatic Brain Injury”)
  • Taught courses in medical malpractice as well as trial practice techniques at St. John’s University School of Law.
  • Served as President, Brain Injury Association of New York State.
  • Consistently listed among the Top 100 New York Trial Lawyers and Top 25 Brain Injury Attorneys in the nation.
  • Public Justice Achievement Award (for pro bono representation of September 11th victims)

Read Michael V. Kaplen's full bio.

Who Can Be Held Liable For Fire and Burn Injuries in New York?

Burn injuries rarely happen in isolation, they result from system failures involving landlords, maintenance companies, manufacturers, contractors, and individuals. Each negligent party means another source of compensation.

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP represents New York residents in fire and burn cases involving:

Property owners and landlords who ignore fire safety:

  • Failed smoke detectors and sprinkler systems
  • Blocked fire exits and faulty wiring
  • Gas leak negligence and heating system failures

Product manufacturers who prioritize profits over safety:

  • Defective appliances and flammable materials
  • Lithium battery explosions and electrical failures
  • Recalled products left in circulation

Construction companies who violate safety codes:

  • Improper gas line installation
  • OSHA violations creating explosion risks
  • Inadequate fire suppression systems

Individuals and businesses who act carelessly:

  • Restaurant owners with faulty kitchen equipment
  • Employers who skip safety training
  • Anyone whose negligence caused your burns

The Legal Process: What Happens After De Caro & Kaplen, LLP Accepts Your Fire or Burn Injury Case?

Insurance companies minimize burn injuries to protect their profits. They'll claim your suffering isn't that severe, that you're healing fine, that you don't need ongoing treatment.

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen fight back with:

  • Medical experts who document the full extent of your burn injuries
  • Economic specialists and life-care planners who calculate lifetime losses
  • Accident reconstruction proving exact negligence
  • Aggressive negotiation and trial advocacy

Burn injuries change lives forever. Your compensation should reflect that reality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some common questions we are asked by clients when taking on a fire or burn injury case in New York.

How long has De Caro & Kaplen, LLP been handling burn injury cases in New York?

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP has dedicated over 45 years to representing personal injury victims in New York. Our extensive experience with fire and burn injury cases means we understand the unique challenges and complexities involved with these devastating injuries.

Does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP understand the medical aspects of burn injuries?

Yes, our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen are knowledgeable about the medical nuances of burn injuries. We discuss critical aspects such as sepsis (infection), electrolyte imbalance, hypoxia/anoxia, and potential cognitive brain injury that can result from severe burns.

Does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP work with medical experts for burn cases?

Absolutely. We provide extensive information on the necessity of life care plans and planners for projecting future medical and support needs. This indicates our strong integration of medical experts and life-care planners into our practice to fully assess and address your needs.

What types of burn injuries does De Caro & Kaplen, LLP handle?

Our firm has experience with various burn injuries, including chemical burns, scalding, workplace burns, explosions, flash fires, and vehicle fires. Fire injuries inherently cover thermal burns, and we are equipped to handle these diverse scenarios.

What is the statute of limitations for burn injury cases in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for most burn injury cases is 3 years. However, there are exceptions, particularly for cases involving children, government defendants, or medical malpractice. We can advise you on the specific timeline for your situation.

Has De Caro & Kaplen, LLP achieved significant settlements for burn victims?

Yes, our firm has a history of multi-million dollar awards and settlements for our fire and burn injury clients. For example, we secured a $1 million settlement for severe burns that were caused by a negligent home care attendant. We fight to obtain the maximum compensation for our clients.

Is De Caro & Kaplen, LLP prepared to take burn injury cases to trial?

Yes, we prepare every case for trial from the outset and are fully prepared to take a case to trial if an adequate settlement cannot be obtained. Michael V. Kaplen is Board Certified in Civil Trial Law, demonstrating our trial readiness.

Have the partners at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP received peer recognition?

Yes, our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen have received significant peer-reviewed accolades. They are recognized as New York Super Lawyers and are listed in Best Lawyers of America, reflecting their high standing.

Are the partners at De Caro & Kaplen, LLP in good standing with the New York State Bar?

With over 45 years of combined experience in New York and multiple board certifications, including Civil Trial Law and Medical Malpractice, our partners demonstrate a high standing within the legal community and are in good standing with the New York State Bar Association.

Is Shana De Caro a member of elite trial organizations?

Yes, Shana De Caro is a distinguished member of prestigious trial organizations. She is recognized as a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, highlighting her success in achieving substantial verdicts and settlements.

 

 

Start Your Fire or Burn Injury Case Today With a Free, No Obligation Consultation

Your fire or burn injury case starts with one conversation, directly with one of our partners, Shana De Caro or Michael V. Kaplen.

Why act today?

Because the earlier you file a claim, the better. Missing deadlines will mean your case is unable to move forward.

  • No upfront cost – We’re paid only if we win for you.
  • Personal attention – Your case is handled start-to-finish by our partners, not passed to a junior associate.
  • Proven results – Multi-million-dollar recoveries for New Yorkers who suffered fire or burn injuries

Don’t let evidence disappear or deadlines expire. Reach out now, and let’s start building the strongest claim possible, together.

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Further Information About Fire and Burn Injuries in New York

For further information on nursing fire and burn injuries, refer to the following guide, written by our partners Shana De Caro and Michael V. Kaplen.

Contact Us

The Brain Injury Law Firm ®
Toll Free: (866) 272-4652
(212) 732-2262
help@brainlaw.com 
Manhattan Offices:
De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
228 E. 45th Street, Suite 1100, New York, NY 10017

De Caro & Kaplen, LLP
860 United Nations Plaza, Suite 27A
New York,
NY 10017
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Areas We Serve

We are based in Manhattan, and serve the entire State of New York including New York City, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island and Queens. We also serve Nassau and Suffolk, Rockland, Westchester Counties, Albany, Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse and surrounding areas.

Practice Areas

Attorney Advertising** | Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.

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