Anoka Scar Attorneys
Informed Legal Guidance
Catastrophic injuries frequently have permanent consequences, including scarring and disfigurement. Scars from an injury or surgery after an accident can be embarrassing and painful. Even a small injury scar or surgery scar can cause pain and suffering. Disfigurement may affect some injury victims’ employment opportunities and prospects, impacting their confidence and self-perception and causing a loss of enjoyment of life. These are compensable injuries.
Facial & Other Visible Scars
Facial and other visible scars can be emotionally damaging, especially for children and teens. When they look in the mirror and see only the scar, there is clearly an emotional impact on their life beyond any physical trauma suffered.
Debilitating Scars
Behind vehicle wrecks, burns are the most common cause of trauma-related deaths. An extensive burn is the most crippling injury a person can suffer and still hope to survive.
Post-burn scarring is inevitable. Deep burns heal by scarring, even with the best of treatment. Although scarring can be reduced with physical therapy and plastic surgery, the areas show the physical appearance of a scar, especially from the victim’s point of view. Except for superficial burns, all burn patients will most likely heal with scars. These scars will be visible to the patient for the rest of their life and may cause enduring agony.
Scarring can be the result of shoddy cosmetic surgery. The attorneys of Bolt Law Firm will provide your case with a thorough review to assess whether faulty products were used or if you received negligent medical attention and treatment.
It is important for lawyers and insurance companies to know the location and visibility of a scar if plastic or reconstructive surgery might help minimize the scar appearance, and whether the scar will fade with time or remain visible and noticeable.
Some of the factors considered when determining compensation for scarring include:
- Victim's age
- Whether the scar is permanent
- Victim's gender and marital status
- Location of the scar
- Appearance of the scar
We are sensitive to the emotional and physical impact of scarring and are uniquely able to provide your case with an honest and thorough evaluation.
FAQs About Scarring
How is the severity of a scar assessed in a personal injury lawsuit?
In personal injury lawsuits, the severity of a scar is evaluated based on factors like its location, size, color, texture, and impact on the individual’s daily life. Scars on highly visible areas, such as the face or neck, are often considered more severe due to their prominent visibility and potential impact on self-esteem and social interactions. Courts may also consider whether the scar causes physical discomfort or functional limitations. Medical experts often testify about the scar’s permanence, any potential need for reconstructive surgery, and the long-term psychological effects, which can all influence the case's value.
Can I claim future medical expenses for scar revision surgeries?
Yes, you can claim future medical expenses for potential surgeries needed to reduce or repair scarring, such as scar revision or reconstructive procedures. If your doctor recommends or anticipates future surgeries to improve the appearance or functionality of the scar, these projected costs can be factored into your claim. Courts often award these expenses based on expert opinions from plastic surgeons or dermatologists, who can estimate the likely costs and benefits of these treatments over time, even if they are not immediately necessary.
Is scarring considered a permanent injury?
In many cases, scarring is considered a permanent injury, especially when the scar cannot be fully erased, even with surgery. Some treatments, like laser therapy or revision surgery, may reduce the appearance of scars but rarely eliminate them entirely. Because of this, courts often view scarring as a lasting condition, particularly when it affects visible areas or causes physical discomfort. The permanence of a scar can affect the damages awarded, as it impacts the victim's life indefinitely, sometimes requiring ongoing treatments or emotional support.
How does scarring impact children in personal injury cases?
Scarring can be particularly traumatic for children, as they may face bullying, social isolation, or self-esteem issues related to their appearance. Courts and juries often consider these factors when awarding damages in cases involving minors. The effects of scarring can be long-lasting, impacting a child’s emotional development, social life, and educational experiences. In these cases, compensation may account not only for medical expenses but also for the future psychological support the child may need as they grow up.
Does the type of scar (e.g., keloid, hypertrophic) affect my case?
Yes, the type of scar can impact your case, as some scars are more severe or noticeable than others. Keloid scars, for example, are raised and may extend beyond the original wound site, often requiring specialized treatment and causing significant distress. Hypertrophic scars are also raised but remain within the wound boundary. Both types can lead to pain, restricted movement, or heightened visibility. The type of scar you have may determine the kind of treatments needed and the potential impact on your quality of life, which courts consider when awarding damages.
Can scarring from psychological trauma be compensated?
While scarring is typically considered a physical injury, plaintiffs can sometimes recover compensation for psychological trauma if the scar serves as a constant reminder of the traumatic incident. For example, a visible scar from an accident or assault may trigger post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other psychological symptoms. Courts may recognize this connection and allow for compensation not only for the physical scar but also for the associated emotional harm, especially if documented by mental health professionals.
If you or a loved one has been inflicted with visible or painful scars caused by a work-related incident or a vehicle wreck, or in any way caused by the negligence of someone else, call the attorneys of Bolt Law Firm at (763) 292-2102 for a free initial consultation.