Recovering Compensation for Scarring and Disfigurement in Illinois

 Posted on August 10, 2021 in Personal Injury

If you have been injured due to someone else’s negligence in Illinois, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages. This can include economic damages for your medical bills and lost wages, providing you with much-needed financial relief. However, not all of the effects of serious injuries are financial, and Illinois recognizes this by allowing injury victims to recover certain non-economic damages as well. One form of non-economic damages that may apply in your case is compensation for physical scarring or disfigurement.

Injuries That May Result in Disfigurement

A number of situations could cause injuries that result in permanent scarring or disfigurement. Some of the most common include:

• Motor vehicle accidents - In a car, truck, or motorcycle crash, lacerations from broken glass and road rash can cause visible scarring. A collision can also cause dismemberment or complications that require the amputation of a limb.

• Fires and explosions - Severe burn injuries can cause permanent scarring, in some cases covering a large portion of the victim’s body.

• Construction and work-related injuries - Catastrophic injuries on work sites can be disfiguring, especially those that involve heavy equipment or power tools.

• Dog bites - Deep dog bite wounds can cause scarring and disfigurement of the face, hands, and arms.

Compensation for Disfiguring Injuries

When you are filing a personal injury claim, it is important to consider all of the economic effects of your scarring or disfiguring injuries. For example, you may require skin grafts, plastic surgery, or other forms of treatment or medication, all of which come at a financial cost. A disfiguring injury can also affect your earning capacity by limiting your physical and manual working abilities or even preventing you from making it through the workday without debilitating pain. An attorney can help you determine the appropriate amount of compensation to pursue these economic damages.

On the other hand, non-economic damages for scarring and disfigurement account for the less tangible effects of the injuries on your life. For example, you may find that your mental health suffers as a result of the changes to your appearance and abilities, or that your disfigurement prevents you from doing things you enjoy. You could even find that your disfiguring injuries affect your personal relationships. Non-economic damages can significantly increase the size of your injury settlement or verdict, but it is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you make a strong case for the compensation you deserve.

Contact a DuPage County Personal Injury Lawyer

At Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices, we know that the life-changing effects of serious injuries can be devastating. If you are suffering from scarring or disfigurement, we will do everything in our power to help you achieve the greatest possible compensation from the at-fault party. Contact us today at 630-932-9100 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Lombard, IL personal injury attorney.