Understand Your Right to Personal Injury Compensation for a Scarring or Disfigurement Injury in Maryland
In Maryland, car accidents often happen in the blink of an eye, yet their consequences can last a lifetime. Scars and disfigurement are injuries that come with unique challenges, carrying with them not just the visible reminders of the event but often profound emotional and psychological effects as well. Scarring is one of the permanent marks that a car collision can leave on a victim. For victims who are left with permanent scars or disfigurement, these scars are a daily reminder of what happened to them. Scarring can lead to psychological issues such as depression or anxiety. If you suffered permanent scarring after being involved in a Maryland car crash because of another party’s negligence, you may be wondering if you can recover compensation for permanent scarring.
Not only can scarring and disfigurement be physically painful, but also such injuries may have serious financial and psychological impacts on a victim and a victim’s loved ones. Under Maryland law, an individual involved in a car crash or catastrophic injury that resulted in scarring or disfigurement may be entitled to damages, such as medical bills, therapy costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage.
To assert the right to compensation, it will be crucial to comply with the Maryland statute of limitations for personal injury claims. This procedural rule requires car wreck victims to take legal action within a certain time after the car accident in which they were hurt. If you or a loved one is currently dealing with scarring or disfigurement from an auto collision caused by someone else’s negligence, please know that legal recourse is available. Contact an experienced lawyer to discuss how the statute of limitations may apply in your case and ensure that you meet the applicable deadlines.
What Is Disfigurement?
Disfigurement refers to a change in appearance that alters the natural structure or form of the body, usually in a way that is perceived as unfavorable or aesthetically challenging.
This alteration can be permanent or temporary and may result from a variety of causes, including car accidents, burns, trauma, surgery, or certain diseases. Disfigurement can affect any body part, but it is particularly impactful when it involves visible areas such as the face, hands, or limbs.
Is a Scar Considered Disfigurement?
Yes, a scar can be considered a form of disfigurement, especially if it significantly alters a person’s appearance. The degree to which a scar is considered disfiguring can depend on various factors, such as its size, location, and the degree to which it contrasts with the surrounding skin.
Scars on highly visible areas of the body, like the face, may be more likely to be perceived as disfiguring.
Types of Scars from a Car Crash
Car accidents can result in various types of scars. The following are the three types of scars that can result from a severe car collision:
Keloid Scars – The first type of scars that can result from a severe car crash are keloid scars. These scars are thick and extend beyond the borders of the injury site. A keloid scar occurs when there is an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. While there are treatments to help minimize the appearance of keloids, and while the scar tissue can be removed, it is common for keloids to reappear. A keloid scar can cause pain, and depending on its location, it can limit mobility.
Hypertrophic Scars – A hypertrophic scar occurs when there is an imbalance in collagen at the injury site. Hypertrophic scars are also thick. However, unlike keloid scars, hypertrophic scars remain within the borders of the injury site. These scars are often red or pink in color. Over time, they may fade and become light in color. Hypertrophic scars generally respond better to treatment than keloids do.
Contracture Scars – Contracture scars develop after a large area of the skin has been injured, for example, due to burns. As the skin heals, it tightens and becomes rigid. Contracture scars can restrict the movement of the affected area, leading to functional impairment.
The physical effects of the above-discussed scars, such as pain, discomfort, reduced mobility, and functional impairment, can last for the rest of a victim’s life. However, the emotional impact of permanent scars can include the following:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of self-esteem
- Increased self-consciousness
How Are Car Crash Scars Treated?
There are a lot of medical treatments that may help to minimize the appearance of scars or improve functionality of an area affected by contractures. The type of treatment given depends on the type and severity of a scar.
Hypertrophic scars are often treated with steroid therapy, either via injections or as a topical application. Treatments may continue for up to two years after the initial trauma. This prescribed plan of care helps to reduce the risk of a hypertrophic scar returning. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Keloid scars are harder to address and may require many types of treatments, including:
- Steroid injections
- Pressure therapy
- Silicon dioxide
- Cryotherapy
- Surgery
- Laser therapy
- Radiation
Contractures can cause significant disfigurement and decreased functionality. Treatment for this type of scarring may include skin grafting to replace damaged skin with healthy skin. Z-Plasty and tissue expansion are two other treatment methods used to help increase functionality of the damaged area.
So, How Much Money Is a Scar Worth from a Car Accident?
The amount of compensation you are entitled to for scarring or disfigurement will depend on multiple factors, including the following:
- Severity of the scar: The more severe and noticeable the scar, the more you can expect to recover.
- Location of the scar: If your scar is in a visible and sensitive area, compensation may be on the higher side.
- Emotional impact of the scar: The level of anxiety, depression, and self-consciousness may impact the value of a permanent scar.
- Age: Younger people tend to recover more compensation than older people.
Because the compensation can vary, you should consult with a personal injury attorney for help understanding the amount of compensation you may be entitled to in your case.
What Counts as Significant Disfigurement?
Significant disfigurement refers to changes in a person’s appearance that are substantial or long-lasting, often resulting from injuries or medical conditions. In legal and medical contexts, for disfigurement to be considered significant, it typically needs to meet certain criteria, such as:
- Visibility. The disfigurement is readily observable and not easily concealed by clothing or makeup.
- Permanence. The changes are permanent or expected to last for a considerable period.
- Severity. The alteration of appearance is severe and not just a minor imperfection or blemish.
- Impact on daily life. The disfigurement affects the individual’s ability to perform certain functions or engage in social activities, either through physical limitation or psychological distress.
In the legal arena, the concept of significant disfigurement can influence judgments related to personal injury claims. Medical assessments and photographic evidence often play a critical role in establishing the level of disfigurement in such cases.
Get Help with Your Scarring or Disfigurement Claim from a Skilled Maryland Car Crash Attorney
Car accidents can leave permanent marks, both emotionally and physically, on victims. If you are grappling with the aftermath of an auto accident and are now facing the challenge of living with severe scars or disfigurement, it is crucial to understand the value of your claim so you can get the full compensation you deserve.
At the Law Offices of Larry B. Litt our legal team will investigate your case, consult with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to help you get maximum compensation. Get started on the path toward healing and financial freedom today by scheduling your free consultation using our contact form or by calling us today at 443-844-1528.