Severe scarring and disfigurement can permanently change a person’s life. These injuries affect physical appearance, emotional well-being, and quality of life. A victim’s pain and suffering can be challenging. Physical pain often causes financial pressure because of ongoing medical treatment costs.
We have a team of personal injury lawyers who advocate for victims of severe scarring and disfigurement. We work hard to protect your legal rights and help you claim maximum compensation for all your sufferings.
Legal Assistance We Provide for Severe Scarring And Disfigurement Victims
When you suffer a severe injury resulting in disfigurement or scarring, our law firm steps in to provide comprehensive legal support. Here is how we stand by victims:
Personalized Case Evaluation
Our team of lawyers thoroughly assesses your case to understand how your injuries have affected your life. We identify potential damages and tailor our legal strategy according to your case.
Detailed Investigation Of Liability
We investigate the cause of your injury to determine who is at fault. Our attorneys gather evidence, consult experts, and build a solid case to hold negligent parties accountable.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often offer inadequate settlements for injuries. We have the skills to negotiate effectively to ensure you receive proper financial support.
Trial Representation
Our skilled Chicago lawyers will represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. We work beyond limits to secure the justice you deserve.
Compassionate Support
We understand the emotional toll these injuries take and provide support throughout the legal process. Our goal is to make the process as stress-free as possible for you.
Types of Scars That Cause Disfigurement
Scarring can result in significant physical and emotional impacts. Different types of scars have different effects and can cause lasting disfigurement. The kinds of scars our accident injury attorneys at Chicago Injury Lawyer, have seen victims suffer from are mentioned below:
- Hypertrophic Scars: Hypertrophic scars result from excessive collagen production during disease healing. They are often red or dark and can be itchy or painful. While hypertrophic scars may flatten over time, they can still cause significant disfigurement.
- Keloid Scars: Keloid scars result from an overgrowth of scar tissue, which forms a thick, raised area on the skin. Keloids can occur after minor injuries, such as piercings or small cuts.
- Contracture Scars: Contracture scars often occur after severe burns or significant skin injuries. These scars cause the skin to tighten, restricting movement and potentially affecting nearby muscles and tendons. Contracture scars can cause severe physical limitations.
- Atrophic Scars: Atrophic scars develop when the body loses tissue during healing. Common examples include scars from severe acne or chickenpox. These scars create noticeable scars in the skin, which can be particularly distressing when located on the face.
- Stretch Marks: Stretch marks can result from rapid skin stretching due to weight changes, pregnancy, or growth spurts. Severe stretch marks, especially if they are extensive or occur in visible body areas, can lead to disfigurement.
- Facial Scars result from Injuries from accidents, surgeries, or burns. These scars can alter a person’s appearance dramatically, leading to self-consciousness and emotional struggles.
- Surgical Scars: Surgeries, especially emergency or invasive procedures, often leave scars. Surgical scars can vary in size depending on the type of procedure and the body’s healing process. Victims sometimes notice that these scars become thick, raised, or highly visible. Severe scars on visible parts of the body can cause disfigurement and affect the victim emotionally.
Common Causes of Severe Scarring And Disfigurement
Many causes can lead to severe scarring and disfigurement. Since we have handled many catastrophic injury cases, our personal injury attorneys are familiar with the common causes which we have discussed below:
Burns: Thermal, chemical, or electrical burns often result in permanent scarring and require long-term medical care. If not appropriately treated, victims may end up with severe disfigurement.
Vehicle Accidents: Crashes can cause deep cuts, abrasions, or crushing injuries that lead to disfigurement and long life suffering for victims.
Workplace Accidents: Injuries from machinery, explosions, or hazardous materials can cause scarring. We have seen many clients who are disfigured and suffer terribly due to injuries that happened at work.
Medical Malpractice: Surgical errors or improper treatment can result in severe disfigurement. Sometimes, these are not treatable and affect victims permanently.
Defective Products: Dangerous or faulty products can cause injuries, leading to permanent scars. Sometimes, children also face these types of injuries caused by toys.
Consequences of Severe Scarring And Disfigurement That Victims Suffer From
Severe scarring and disfigurement can have far-reaching effects on victims. These effects mentally affect victims, as we have seen. Some victims never recover from these damages and become different people due to the trauma and physical appearance.
Here are the impacts of severe scarring and disfigurement that victims suffer from:
- Emotional Distress: Many victims suffer from depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Some victims become very unsocial and lose confidence as they hesitate to face others.
- Physical Pain: Scar tissue can cause chronic pain or restrict movement. We have seen victims who suffer from disabilities due to severe disfigurement caused by scars.
- Employment Challenges: Many companies reject people with scars or severe disfigurements when they apply for a job. The reason behind this cruelty is that some companies want employees with appealing physical appearance.
- Financial Stress: Surgeries, rehabilitation, and therapy costs to treat severe disfigurement can be difficult for everyone to afford. This causes financial stress for the victim and their family.
Types Of Compensation for Severe Scarring And Disfigurement In Chicago
If you have suffered from severe scarring or disfigurement, we are here to help. Our reliable lawyers will work beyond limits to ensure you receive financial aid for your suffering. Victims who live in Chicago may be entitled to compensation to cover the damages mentioned below.
1. Medical Expenses
Financial support may cover past and future medical costs, such as surgeries, skin grafts, or reconstructive procedures.
2. Loss Of Wages And Future Income
Scar and severe disfigurement victims may be financially compensated for time missed from work and any reduction in earning ability due to injuries.
3. Pain and Suffering
Victims of scarring and severe disfigurement may be entitled to compensation for physical suffering, emotional distress, and the impact on their quality of life.
4. Rehabilitation Costs
Covers expenses for therapy, counseling, or other treatments to support recovery.
Illinois Laws Protecting Victims of Severe Scarring And Disfigurement
Below is a list of laws and acts applicable to severe scarring and disfigurement cases.
Personal Injury Act
Victims who suffer from severe scarring and disfigurement can file a personal injury claim. Under the Illinois Personal Injury Act, a claim must be filed within two years of the injury’s date.
Workers’ Compensation Act
The Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act compensates for workers injured, including victims who have scars and disfigurement. Injury claims must be filed within three years of the date of the accident.
Product Liability Act
Under the Illinois Product Liability Act, individuals injured by defective or dangerous products can file claims within two years of the injury.
Medical Malpractice Act
This can be used against medical professionals and healthcare institutions for scars and disfigurement caused by late or wrong medical treatment. Under the Illinois Medical Malpractice Act, claims must be filed within two years of the injury or within four years of the malpractice occurring (whichever comes first).
Let Us Protect Your Legal Rights!
If you or a loved one has suffered severe disfigurement or scarring, don’t delay seeking legal help—contact the Chicago Injury Lawyer for a free consultation. Our top-rated lawyers in Chicago are ready to support you and help you fight for the justice you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a lawyer for my severe disfigurement or scarring case?
Yes, an experienced lawyer can handle legal matters, collect evidence, and ensure you receive fair compensation.
How long do I have to file a claim in Chicago?
You have two years from the injury date to file a scarring and severe disfigurement injury claim in Illinois.
Who can be held liable for my sufferings?
Liability may rest with manufacturers of defective goods, your employer if the injury occurred at work, or medical professionals, depending on your injury.
