Car accidents are unfortunate events that can lead to various injuries, and facial scars are one of the distressing consequences that accident victims may endure. If you or a loved one has suffered facial scarring in an auto accident, you might be wondering about your legal rights and the possibility of seeking compensation.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore common causes of facial scars in auto accidents, the types of facial scars, the average settlement value for such cases, and the crucial question: Can you get compensation for a facial scar from a car accident?
Common Causes of Facial Scars in Auto Accidents
Facial injuries in car accidents can result from a variety of causes. The impact of a collision can cause occupants to strike hard surfaces, leading to facial trauma. Common causes include:
Blunt Force Trauma: The forceful impact of a car accident can cause blunt force trauma to the face, resulting in cuts, abrasions, and potential scarring.
Airbag Deployment: While airbags are designed to save lives, their deployment can cause injuries, including facial abrasions and scars.
Lack of Seatbelt Usage: Failing to wear a seatbelt increases the risk of facial injuries during a collision.
Collisions with Objects: Impact with objects inside the vehicle or external objects can cause facial trauma and scarring.
Glass Injuries: Shattered glass during a collision can cause severe facial lacerations and lead to permanent scarring.
Facial Fractures: The sheer force of an accident can cause facial bones to fracture, requiring surgical intervention and potentially leaving lasting scars.
Types of Facial Scars
Facial scars can vary in type and severity, influencing the impact on an individual’s life. Understanding the different types of facial scars is crucial when assessing the potential damages in a personal injury claim:
Hypertrophic Scars: Raised and red scars that may develop after an injury, hypertrophic scars can be itchy and uncomfortable.
Contracture Scars: These scars result from the skin contracting during the healing process, potentially limiting movement in the affected area.
Keloid Scars: Keloids are raised, thick scars that extend beyond the original injury site and may require medical attention for treatment.
Bumpy Scars: Scars with uneven textures can result from inadequate healing or improper wound care.
Average Settlement Value for a Facial Scar Case
An injury leading to substantial facial scarring typically results in a settlement value ranging from $40,000 to $150,000. Determining the average settlement value for a facial scar case involves various factors, including the severity of the injury, medical expenses, and the impact on the individual’s life. Each case is unique, but factors that contribute to the settlement value include:
Medical Bills: The costs associated with medical treatments, cosmetic surgery, and ongoing care for facial scars play a significant role in the settlement calculation.
Permanent Disfigurement: Courts often consider the extent of permanent disfigurement and the impact on the individual’s appearance and mental well-being.
Lost Wages: If the facial scarring prevents the individual from working or results in a loss of earning capacity, lost wages are factored into the compensation.
Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as physical pain and emotional distress, are crucial components in determining the overall settlement value.
Types of Damages
In a personal injury claim for facial scars resulting from a car accident, different types of damages may be sought:
Economic Damages: These tangible losses include medical expenses, lost wages, and any other financial losses directly related to the injury.
Non-economic Damages: Intangible losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the impact on the individual’s quality of life fall under non-economic damages.
Punitive Damages: In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar conduct in the future.
Can You Get Compensation for a Facial Scar from a Car Accident?
Yes, you can receive compensation for a facial scar resulting from a car accident. The process typically involves filing a personal injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance or pursuing legal action if necessary. The amount of compensation may depend on factors such as the severity of the scarring, medical expenses, emotional distress, and other relevant considerations. Consultation with a legal expert is recommended for personalized advice.
How to Get Compensation?
Seeking compensation for a facial scar resulting from a car accident involves navigating the legal process. While every case is unique, the following steps can guide you through the essential elements of pursuing compensation:
Seek Medical Treatment: Your health is the top priority. If you have suffered facial injuries, seek prompt medical attention. This ensures your well-being and creates a documented record of your injuries.
Document the Scene: If possible, document the accident scene, take photographs, and gather contact information from any witnesses. This evidence can be crucial in establishing liability.
Preserve Evidence: Keep any relevant evidence, such as clothing worn during the accident or pictures of the injuries, as it may be needed to support your claim.
Consult an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer: Enlist the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer specializing in car accidents and facial injuries. A skilled attorney can guide you through the legal process and help build a strong case on your behalf.
Seeking Legal Advice
If you or a loved one has suffered facial scarring in a car accident, seeking legal advice is crucial to navigate the complex process of obtaining compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help in various ways:
Determining Liability: Establishing who is at fault for the accident is crucial for building a strong case.
Calculating Damages: An experienced attorney can assess the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages to ensure fair compensation.
Dealing with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize your claim. A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the Legal Process: Legal proceedings can be complex, but an attorney can guide you through each step, ensuring you meet all deadlines and requirements.
Pursue Justice with BLG’s Experienced Attorney
Suffering facial scars in a car accident can be a distressing experience, but understanding your rights and the legal options available is crucial for obtaining the compensation you deserve. If you or someone you know has endured facial scarring due to a car accident, seeking legal advice from an experienced personal injury lawyer is the first step towards navigating the legal process. With the right legal counsel, you can pursue fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the facial injuries sustained in the accident.
Are you or a loved one grappling with facial scars from a car accident? BLG is here to guide you through the legal maze and help you secure the compensation you deserve. Our experienced personal injury lawyers specialize in cases like yours, ensuring you receive the support and advocacy needed during this challenging time.
Contact BLG for a free consultation Today!
FAQs
Do car accidents cause facial scars?
Yes, car accidents can cause facial scars. Injuries sustained during a car accident, such as cuts, lacerations, or abrasions, can lead to scarring on the face.
Can I claim compensation for facial scars?
Yes, you may be eligible to claim compensation for facial scars resulting from a car accident. Compensation claims typically depend on the circumstances of the accident, the extent of injuries, and the liability of the parties involved.
Can accident scars be removed from the face?
In many cases, yes. Advances in medical technology, including reconstructive and plastic surgery, laser treatments, and topical solutions, offer various options for reducing or removing facial scars resulting from accidents. However, the treating facial scarring caused by car depends on factors such as the type and severity of the scar.
How much are facial scars worth?
In cases involving significant facial scarring, the standard settlement range for injuries typically falls between $40,000 and $150,000. Nevertheless, personal injury lawsuits that concern extremely severe and disfiguring facial scarring may yield substantially higher settlement amounts.
1-800-870-8910