Can I Seek Compensation for Scarring and Disfigurement in CA?

Sustaining injuries at the hands of a negligent party can be devastating. While the wounds may heal with time, you may find that you are left with a permanent, visible reminder of the trauma you have endured due to scarring and disfigurement. If this reflects your circumstances, it is in your best interest to keep reading, as the following blog explores what you must know about these injuries, as well as the importance of connecting with our Irvine catastrophic injury lawyers to discuss your right to compensation in these matters.

Are There Different Types of Scarring and Disfigurement I Can Suffer?

It is imperative to understand, first and foremost, that all scarring is a form of disfigurement, but not all disfigurement is considered scarring. As such, you will find that scarring occurs as a result of damage to the layers of your skin. Most severe scarring is the result of wounds that penetrate to the deepest layer of the skin, known as the dermis. Once this layer is damaged, your body will begin producing collagen to mend and repair the damage. However, this can result in raised and thickened skin that often looks different than the skin around it.

Disfigurement, on the other hand, occurs anytime someone’s appearance is permanently and drastically altered, often as a result of a serious injury. As mentioned, scarring is a form of disfigurement, but this can also include limb loss, enucleation, facial trauma, and fractures that do not heal correctly.

The most significant impact that scarring and disfigurement can have on a victim is the emotional impact. Many who suffer from these injuries can suffer from self-esteem and identity issues as a result of the drastic change to their appearance. Additionally, these can serve as a permanent, visible reminder of the trauma endured, meaning victims may suffer significantly for prolonged periods of time. However, victims may also endure physical pain, as scarring and disfigurement can result in nerve damage, increased sensitivity, discomfort, and even limited mobility.

What Kind of Damages Can I Seek?

Typically, if you are the victim of an injury that has caused scarring and disfigurement, you are eligible to seek both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages will reflect the actual monetary value of your accident, including medical bills, prescriptions, and medical equipment. The non-economic damages you can seek will represent the emotional losses you have suffered as a result of the accident and your subsequent injuries, including loss of enjoyment of life, pain and suffering, humiliation, and mental anguish, among other losses.

Sustaining scarring or disfigurement because of another person’s negligent actions can be devastating. Unfortunately, you will find that fighting for the justice you deserve can be incredibly difficult to navigate on your own, which is why it is in your best interest to discuss your circumstances with an attorney at California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC. We will examine your situation to determine the best course of action. Contact us today to learn more.