If you have suffered scarring and disfigurement because of someone else’s negligence, you may be in physical and emotional pain that seems like it will never go away. If you are thinking of filing a scarring and disfigurement claim, there are a few things to consider that may help you understand the implications of your injuries.

Scarring and Disfigurement are Permanent Injuries

Permanent injuries such as scarring and disfigurement can affect your ability to enjoy life and cause severe physical pain and mental anguish. If you have suffered visible scars or disfigurement you may not want to leave the house or find it difficult to get a job. You may also require costly surgeries or long-term medical treatment for these injuries. Even a small scar or injury that is not visible when you are wearing clothing can cause pain and suffering that may have a negative impact on your health and well-being for the rest of your life.

Scarring and Disfigurement can Result in Long-Term Physical Pain

Scarring can cause skin to become inflexible and affect surrounding tissues. Due to the increased width and thickness of skin, scar tissue can result in loss of mobility, especially in areas where joints are essential for proper movement. Scarring can also cause permanent numbness or painful nerve sensitivity.

Scarring and Disfigurement Has Intangible Repercussions

You may not be able to perform recreational activites you once enjoyed, like working out, running or playing tennis with friends. Scarring and disfigurement may also affect your self-esteem and general sense of happiness, which can lead to difficulty with developing close friendships and romantic relationships. This loss of enjoyment of life and companionship can lead to emotional and mental problems that negatively affect your quality of life.

Perception Matters

If you have visible scarring or disfigurement on your head, face, neck, or hands, insurance adjusters and juries will likely perceive greater harm than if scarring is located in areas that are typically covered with clothing. Believe it or not, they are also more likely to perceive that a woman who has sustained these types of injuries will suffer greater damage than a man with similar injuries.

You May Be Entitled to Punitive Damages

If the responsible party acted in an egregious or malicious fashion, you may be entitled to punitive damages in addition to compensatory damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages. Punitive damages are designed as a type of “punishment” to deter the negligent party from allowing similar events to happen again.

If you or a loved one is considering filing a scarring and disfigurement claim, the experienced legal team at Gold, Albanese & Barletti, LLC, can assess your personal injury case and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Contact us at 732-936-9901 to schedule a free consultation.