Permanent Scarring From Car Accidents
Car accidents can leave permanent marks, both emotionally and physically, on victims. Scarring is one of the permanent marks that a car accident can leave on a victim. For victims who are left with permanent scars, 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 Florida car accident because of another party’s negligence, you may be wondering if you can recover compensation for the scarring. In Florida, personal injury victims can recover compensation for permanent scarring. If you suffered permanent scarring in a car accident that was another party’s fault, contact an attorney for legal help.
Types of Scars From Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in various types of scars. The following are the three types of scars that can result from a severe car accident;
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 be more devastating than the physical effects. Emotional effects of permanent scars can include the following;
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Loss of self-esteem
- Increased self-consciousness
Compensation for a Permanent Scar
The exact amount of compensation you will recover for your permanent scar depends on several 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.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you have suffered permanent scarring after being involved in a car accident because of another party’s negligence, contact our Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys at The Pendas Law Firm for legal guidance.
The Pendas Law Firm also represents clients in the Fort Myers, Miami, Orlando, Ocala, Naples, Melbourne, Bradenton, Daytona Beach, West Palm Beach, Jacksonville, and Tampa areas.