Facing facial injuries after a personal injury accident can be both physically and emotionally challenging. The following is a look at the types of facial injuries that can result from such accidents, their long-term impact, and the steps to take immediately following an injury.
The attorneys with The Eberst Law Firm are standing by to help if you’ve experienced a severe facial injury due to an accident caused by another’s negligence. You can use our online form or call 1-888-CALL-JON for a free case evaluation.
Types of Facial Injuries Caused by Personal Injury Accidents
Many potential complications are associated with facial injuries resulting from an accident, such as a car wreck or a slip and fall. These are some of the more common ones.
Cuts and Bruises
These injuries involve breaks in the skin and damage to the blood vessels beneath. While they’re common and often heal with time, there are instances where they require medical attention. Deep cuts can lead to excessive bleeding and increase the risk of infection. Medical care is essential to properly clean and close the wound to prevent complications and ensure minimal scarring.
Fractures
The face contains delicate bones that can fracture in accidents. Facial bone fractures can result in significant pain, swelling, and long-term effects. For instance, a fractured jaw can affect your ability to speak and eat normally. Thankfully, most people with a facial fracture don’t require surgery. According to one study, 81% of victims healed without surgery.
Burns and Scarring
Facial burns can be particularly distressing, affecting as many as 60% of people who suffer facial injuries. Not only can they cause intense pain, but they often lead to permanent scarring. These scars can be a constant reminder of the traumatic event and its impact on self-esteem. Depending on the severity of the burn, victims may require treatments such as skin grafts or laser therapy may be required to minimize scarring.
Eye Injuries
Injuries to the eyes range from minor irritations to severe damage. Even minor eye injuries can be excruciating, leading to discomfort and sensitivity to light. Severe eye injuries can impair vision, potentially affecting your overall quality of life. Immediate medical evaluation is critical in eye injuries to prevent further damage and ensure the best possible outcome.
Nose Injuries
Accidents can cause nasal fractures or damage to the cartilage and soft tissue of the nose. A broken nose can not only be painful but can also obstruct breathing. Corrective surgery may be necessary to restore proper function and appearance.
Long-Term Impact of Facial Injuries
When someone suffers severe injuries to the face, they will often have to deal with profound, long-term consequences. These often include the following:
Physical Pain and Suffering
Facial injuries can cause persistent pain and discomfort, making it challenging to perform everyday activities. Depending on the severity of the injury, you might require pain management techniques, physical therapy, or surgical interventions to alleviate this suffering.
Emotional Impact and Psychological Trauma
The emotional toll of facial injuries can be profound. Changes in your appearance can lead to anxiety, depression, and a loss of self-confidence. Coping with these emotional effects may necessitate therapy or counseling to address the psychological trauma and rebuild your self-esteem.
Financial Burdens
Medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages due to time off work can add significant financial stress to the already challenging situation. Seeking compensation for these costs through insurance claims or legal actions may be necessary to alleviate this burden.
Steps to Take Immediately Following a Facial Injury
Regardless of the injury’s severity, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial. They can assess the extent of the injury and provide appropriate treatment to prevent complications.
You should also document the incident and gather evidence. These steps are essential for potential legal claims. Photographs, witness statements, and official reports can be invaluable in establishing liability and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
Coping with Physical and Emotional Changes Following a Severe Accident
Not only do accident victims have to deal with physical pain, they’ll often encounter emotional issues as well. These include:
- Dealing with pain and discomfort: Following your medical treatment plan diligently is vital to manage pain and promote healing. This plan may involve medications, physical therapy, or even surgical procedures to address the physical aspects of your injury.
- Managing psychological and emotional trauma: Coping with the emotional impact of facial injuries may require therapy or counseling. These professionals can help you navigate the psychological trauma, regain self-confidence, and rebuild your emotional well-being.
- Coping with changes to appearance: Remember that your appearance doesn’t solely define your worth. While it’s natural to feel self-conscious after facial injuries, focus on your inner qualities, achievements, and the support of loved ones to bolster your self-esteem.
Financial Burdens After Facial Injuries
Facial injuries can bring about a host of financial challenges, including extensive medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and the potential loss of income due to time off work. Even a “minor” facial injury, such as a chipped tooth, can cost $2,000 to repair.
Here’s a more detailed look at how to address these financial burdens:
- Worker’s compensation: If your facial injury occurred at your workplace, you may be entitled to worker’s compensation benefits. These benefits typically cover medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages while you recover from your injuries. Report your injury to your employer and immediately file a worker’s compensation claim.
- Insurance claims: If your facial injury resulted from a car accident, you may be able to claim compensation through your insurance policy. This can help cover your medical expenses and lost wages. Consult with your insurer to understand the specific coverage available.
- Third-Party Liability Claims: In cases where another party’s negligence caused your facial injury, you can pursue compensation from that responsible party. This can include coverage for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and even non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
Do You Need to Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Facial Injury?
A personal injury lawyer can assess your case in detail. They’ll evaluate the circumstances surrounding your facial injury and determine if you have a viable legal claim. This assessment considers liability, negligence, and the extent of your damages.
After a thorough evaluation, your attorney will advise you on the best course of action. They may recommend pursuing a personal injury lawsuit or negotiating with the responsible party’s insurance company for a fair settlement.
Personal injury cases can be complicated, involving various documents, evidence, and legal procedures. An attorney is well-versed in handling these complexities, protecting your rights, and working to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Other ways a lawyer can help include the following:
- Compensation maximization: A personal injury lawyer’s primary goal is to secure maximum compensation. They will consider all aspects of your financial losses related to your facial injury.
- Emotional distress: In addition to financial losses, an attorney will factor in the emotional distress and psychological trauma you’ve endured due to your facial injury when seeking compensation. This can help you recover not only financially but also emotionally.
- Negotiation and litigation: Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies and the responsible party to reach a fair settlement. If necessary, they’ll represent you in court, ensuring your interests are protected and fighting for a favorable outcome.
Learn more about how The Eberst Law Firm can help by calling 1-888-CALL-JON or contacting us online for a free consultation.
