Accidents can leave lasting scars, both physically and emotionally. Among the most devastating injuries are facial injuries, which not only cause pain and disfigurement but can also impact self-confidence, mental well-being, and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one has suffered facial injuries due to someone else’s negligence in Charlotte, NC, you may have legal options. At Bradford Law, we understand the challenges of these injuries and are prepared to help you seek compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Common Causes of Facial Injuries in Accidents
Facial injuries can occur in many types of accidents. Some of the most common include:
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle and bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Slip-and-fall accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Animal attacks
If someone else’s negligence caused your facial injury, you may have the right to pursue legal action and recover compensation.
Types of Facial Injuries
Facial trauma can range from minor cuts and bruises to permanent disfigurement. Some of the most common facial injuries include:
Fractures
Broken bones in the face can be extremely painful and require surgical intervention. Common fractures include:
- Nasal Fractures (Broken Nose) – A broken nose happens quickly in car accidents, falls, or sports. Since the nose sticks out, it’s an easy target for impact. Swelling, bruising, pain, and breathing issues are common. If the nose heals incorrectly, it can cause long-term breathing problems or permanent appearance changes.
- Orbital Fractures (Eye Socket Damage) – The bones around the eye are fragile, so a strong impact—like a crash or fall—can cause a fracture. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, and vision issues. In severe cases, the eye may appear sunken, or movement may be restricted, sometimes requiring surgery to fix.
- Mandibular Fractures (Broken Jaw) – A fractured jaw makes talking, eating, and breathing difficult. It usually happens in high-impact accidents or falls. Pain, swelling, and trouble opening the mouth are common signs. Often, the jaw must be wired shut or stabilized to heal correctly.
- Maxillary Fractures (Upper Jaw Damage) – Breaking the upper jaw affects facial structure and function. Car crashes often cause falls or assaults. Symptoms include facial swelling, difficulty chewing, and numb upper lip or cheeks. Severe cases may require surgery to realign the bones.
- Zygomatic Fractures (Cheekbone Injuries) – A fractured cheekbone can cause swelling, bruising, and facial asymmetry. Since the cheekbone supports the eye socket, vision issues or trouble opening the mouth can occur. If the break is severe, surgery may be needed to restore function and appearance.
Lacerations and Scarring
Deep cuts and lacerations may require stitches or reconstructive surgery. If severe enough, they can lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Burns – Chemical burns, electrical burns, and fire-related burns can cause severe damage to the skin and underlying tissue, often leading to scarring and disfigurement.
- Eye Injuries – Damage to the eyes can result in vision impairment or blindness. Flying debris, blunt force trauma, or exposure to hazardous substances can all cause severe eye injuries.
- Soft Tissue Damage – Trauma to facial muscles, nerves, and ligaments can affect function and sensation. In severe cases, nerve damage may cause partial paralysis of the face.
Facial injuries can be painful, life-altering, and expensive to treat, making it important to understand their severity and potential long-term effects.
Long-Term Consequences of Facial Injuries
Facial injuries can have lasting effects, both physically and emotionally. Some of the long-term consequences include:
- Ongoing pain and discomfort
- Trouble eating, speaking, or breathing
- Lasting scars and disfigurement
- Vision loss or impairment
- Emotional stress, anxiety, and depression
- Costly medical care, including reconstructive surgery
The emotional toll of a facial injury can be just as severe as the physical damage. Many victims struggle with self-image and may require psychological support to cope with their trauma.
Seeking Compensation for a Facial Injury
If someone else’s negligence caused your facial injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical Expenses – This compensation should cover your hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and future medical treatments.
- Lost Wages – If your injury prevents you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Scarring and Disfigurement – Additional damages may be awarded for permanent scarring or disfigurement that impacts self-esteem and quality of life.
- Rehabilitation Costs – This includes therapy, reconstructive surgery, and cosmetic procedures needed to improve function and appearance.
How Bradford Law Can Help
At Bradford Law, we know that no amount of money can erase the pain of a facial injury. However, seeking fair compensation can help ease your financial burdens and provide access to necessary medical care. Our experienced attorneys will:
- Investigate the cause of your injury and determine liability
- Collect evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements
- Work with medical experts to assess the extent of your injury and its long-term impact
- Negotiate with insurance companies to pursue the full amount of compensation you deserve
- Take your case to court if necessary to fight for your rights
Our team is dedicated to helping accident victims in Charlotte, NC, confidently move forward.
North Carolina’s Statute of Limitations for Injury Claims
North Carolina law sets a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those involving facial injuries. You may lose your right to seek compensation if you do not file your claim within this time frame. It is vital to act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
Get Legal Help for Your Facial Injury Case Today
A facial injury can change your life instantly, but you do not have to face the challenges alone. At Bradford Law, we are committed to standing by your side and fighting for the compensation you need to heal and rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has suffered a facial injury from an accident in Charlotte, NC, contact us today for a free consultation.
Contact Bradford Law today to schedule your consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice for your injuries.
