Is Disfigurement Resulting from a Work-Related Injury Compensable?

Work-related injuries can be a major inconvenience at best. At worst, they can be life-altering. Between doctors’ appointments, surgery, and missed work, they can certainly have an effect on your life in the short-term or even long-term. Fortunately, Workers’ Compensation can help to reduce some of the financial burden, at least in the short-term. But what happens if you experience scarring and disfigurement as a result of a serious injury?

Location of the Scarring or Disfigurement

Scarring or disfigurement can not only result in physical pain, but mentally it can have an even greater negative impact – especially when located in an area of the body that is more difficult to hide. A Workers’ Compensation judge may be inclined to view these injuries as more harmful than those that are only visible in certain clothing.

Cosmetics and Mobility

Cosmetic scarring that is very difficult to hide can have a serious impact on the individual’s life, including their ability to form romantic relationships, make friends, have self-esteem, and enjoy various activities. These scars can also cause inflexibility on different parts of the skin. Scar tissue located on a joint can increase both the width of the scar as well as the issue of loss of mobility. In even more severe cases, it can affect nerve sensitivity and cause physical and emotional distress.

Documenting Your Scarring or Disfigurement

It is extremely important to document your scarring or disfigurement. Visit with a physician and ensure that it is mentioned in your medical records, including whether the issue is likely to have a long-term effect on mobility. This will be very helpful in any instances in which you must defend yourself to your employer’s insurer or the jury in regards to compensation.

Recovering Compensation

While some states factor permanent scarring into a worker’s permanent disability rating, other states allow workers to receive a one-time lump sum payment, up to a certain amount. It is important to seek counsel from a qualified Workers’ Compensation lawyer with experience handling work injury claims in your state.

Compensatory damages may be possible for those who have suffered disfigurement caused by another’s negligence. Furthermore, if an individual acted egregiously in creating the negligent situation, the victim may possibly recover for punitive damages through a personal injury claim.

Philadelphia Work Injury Lawyers at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. Help Those Disfigured in a Workplace Accident

If you or a loved one has been scarred or disfigured due to a work-related injury, it is of the utmost importance to seek a qualified Philadelphia work injury lawyer with a proven record of success. The dedicated attorneys at Freedman & Lorry, P.C. can help those during such a difficult time. Call 888-999-1962 today to schedule a free consultation or submit an online inquiry. We have offices in Philadelphia, Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Pinehurst, North Carolina to assist clients throughout the surrounding areas.