Does Workers’ Compensation Cover Disfigurement and Scars?

The law only states that a scar derived from a work-related injury has to be “serious and permanent” to be compensated.

A work-related injury can result in lost wages, isolation, pain, uncomfortable and expensive doctor visits, medical bills, and emotional issues, such as anxiety or depression. If the accident was severe, then the worker may also have to deal with scars and disfigurement and the secondary mental issues that derive from their wounds.

Only someone who went through this type of trauma can fully understand the difficulties that one has to face after a scarring injury. To make matters worse, depending on the situation, scars and disfigurements aren’t always covered by workers’ compensation on the basis that they are not debilitating in any way.

If you are worried that your workers’ compensation claim won’t cover your scars and disfigurement, there is hope. If certain criteria are met, then your employer will be liable for your scars and injuries. Contact a St. Louis work injury attorney so that they can advise you on your best legal options.

5 Common Causes of Being Disfigured at Work

Burns

Burns injuries are one of the leading causes of workplace disfigurement. And it’s not shocking when you consider that many workplaces involve open flames, hot liquids, and electrical currents. While first and second-degree burns typically heal without any long-term damage, more severe third and fourth-degree burns can result in lifelong disfigurement.

Amputations

Losing a limb is a very traumatic experience. And depending on the location of the amputation, it can also be extremely disfiguring.

Eye Injuries

Another common type of workplace disfigurement is an eye injury. These can range from relatively minor injuries, such as a corneal abrasion, to more severe injuries, such as a ruptured eyeball. And while most eye injuries will heal without any long-term damage, some can lead to permanent vision loss or blindness.

Facial Injuries

Facial injuries are another common type of workplace disfigurement. And like other types of injuries, the severity can vary greatly. A small cut or bruise may heal without any noticeable scarring. But a more severe injury, such as a broken nose or shattered cheekbone, can lead to permanent disfigurement.

Dental Injuries

Dental injuries are another common type of workplace disfigurement. While a chipped tooth may not seem like a big deal, it can actually be quite serious. More severe dental injuries, such as tooth loss, can also lead to permanent disfigurement.

Workers’ Compensation for Disfigurement at Work

Injuries resulting in disfigurement are not something that any of us want to think about. But unfortunately, they happen every day. And the worst part is, they’re not easy to live with. For example, facial injuries can make it difficult to eat, speak, and breathe. And burns can lead to chronic pain, fatigue, and anxiety.

And it’s not just the physical effects that can be difficult to deal with. The psychological effects can be just as debilitating. Many people who suffer disfiguring injuries often experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. They may also have difficulty adjusting to their new appearance and may avoid social situations altogether.

Add to this the multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and even lifelong disability, and it’s easy to see how disfiguring injuries can have a profound and lasting impact on a person’s life.

Luckily, through the workers ‘ compensation system, injured workers are entitled to certain benefits. These benefits include medical expenses, income replacement, and even death benefits. So, if you or someone you know has been disfigured in a workplace accident, contact a qualified workers’ compensation attorney who can help you get the benefits you deserve.

The Law Office of James. M. Hoffman has been handling workers’ compensation claims for over 30 years. We have the experience and knowledge to get you the maximum benefits possible. And we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Workers’ Compensation for Scars or Disfigurement in Missouri

If you were employed in the state of Missouri at the time of your injury, you are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. The maximum benefit you can receive for scars and disfigurement is generally 40 weeks, depending on how serious the injury is.

What makes a scar serious enough to be considered eligible for workers’ compensation claim? The law only states that a scar derived from a work-related injury has to be “serious and permanent” to be compensated.

First of all, you can only receive workers’ compensation benefits for certain areas of your body. Previously, it was granted for those who suffered from scarring on exposed parts of the body (face, neck, hands, forearms). Now it has extended to the full arms, but it still doesn’t cover any scarring that you may have.

Second, your scarring needs to be serious enough and to have permanence. How can you determine that? There are certain conditions that make a scar serious: it takes someone less than 15 seconds to notice it without having to step into bright light. It also depends on the size of it – a scar that is too small might not be taken seriously.

Third, the court considers the scar’s permanence when assessing the damage claim. Of course, one would argue that any scar tissue is permanent, as you will never get your previous tissue back, but it takes special medical evaluation to determine “how” permanent your scar is.

Compensation for Your Injury Claim

If you have been injured at work and have been left disfigured or have a serious scar as a result, contact the Law Office of James M. Hoffmann. For more than 20 years we have helped injured workers receive the benefits they need and deserve.

Based in St. Louis, and handling workers compensation and personal injury cases throughout the State of Missouri, our law firm can ensure that your legal rights are protected. Please call (314) 361-4300 or contact us online to request a free consultation. All communications are returned promptly.