Scars and Disfigurement Attorney in Baltimore
Permanent scarring or disfigurement can leave deep marks on your life, not just your skin.
The physical pain, emotional distress, and financial strain can be overwhelming, especially when caused by someone else’s carelessness. You deserve a chance to heal and rebuild without carrying the burden alone.
In Maryland, the law allows you to seek fair compensation for your injuries, medical costs, and emotional suffering.
The dedicated Baltimore scarring and disfigurement lawyers at Greenberg Law Offices are here to help you move forward and fight for what’s fair.
What is Scarring and Disfigurement?
Scarring happens when the body repairs damaged skin, leaving marks that often look and feel different. Disfigurement involves more severe, lasting changes such as facial injuries, burns, or the loss of a limb.
These visible wounds can affect how you feel about yourself, how others see you, and even your ability to work or socialize.
Maryland law allows victims to pursue compensation for medical costs, emotional distress, and life changes caused by such injuries.
Common Types and Causes of Scarring and Disfigurement Injuries
Scarring and disfigurement can stem from a range of accidents and negligent acts.
These injuries often have lasting physical and emotional effects, sometimes requiring extensive medical treatment and reconstructive surgery. Some causes include the following:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Road rash, glass lacerations, and burns from vehicle fires often result in severe scarring.
Workplace Accidents
Construction, manufacturing, and industrial jobs pose risks of burns, chemical exposure, and machinery-related injuries that can lead to disfigurement.
Medical Malpractice
Surgical mistakes, improper wound care, and complications from cosmetic procedures can result in avoidable scarring.
Defective Products
Faulty appliances, unsafe consumer goods, and malfunctioning safety equipment may cause burns and permanent injuries.
Premises Liability Incidents
Dog bites, slip-and-fall accidents, and exposure to hazardous conditions often lead to visible scarring.
Burn Injuries
Third-degree burns frequently cause lasting disfigurement and require multiple reconstructive surgeries.
Facial Injuries
Accidents causing broken bones, nerve damage, or tissue loss can permanently alter one’s appearance.
How Scarring and Disfigurement Claims Work in Maryland
In Maryland, getting compensation for scarring or disfigurement requires showing that someone else’s carelessness caused your injuries.
To strengthen your case, we gather key evidence like medical reports, photos, witness statements, and records showing how your life or work has been affected.
Maryland’s contributory negligence rule can block recovery if you share any fault, so it’s critical to have strong representation.
What Compensation Can You Recover for Scarring and Disfigurement in Baltimore?
In Baltimore, individuals who have suffered scarring or disfigurement may be entitled to significant compensation.
Economic and Non-Economic Damages
Economic damages address measurable losses, such as medical costs for surgeries, reconstruction, and ongoing care.
They also include lost income during recovery and reduced earning potential if a new appearance or mobility restrictions affect your career. Non-economic damages recognize emotional and physical suffering, including anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Factors That Influence Compensation Amounts
Compensation amounts often depend on the scar’s visibility, permanence, and impact on your personal and professional life. Facial, neck, or hand scarring typically results in higher settlements than less visible injuries.
How a Baltimore Scars and Disfigurement Attorney Can Help Your Case
A disfigurement attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and consult medical professionals to assess your injuries and future needs.
Your lawyer manages all communication with insurers, who often undervalue disfigurement claims. They calculate fair compensation, considering medical costs and the long-term effect on your life.
If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney can take your case to court and fight for justice.
Legal representation is crucial because insurance adjusters rarely grasp the deep emotional and physical impact of disfigurement. A dedicated attorney ensures your story is heard and pursues the maximum compensation you deserve.
Statute of Limitations for Scars and Disfigurement Claims in Maryland
Maryland law imposes strict deadlines for filing personal injury claims, including those involving scarring and disfigurement.
Generally, victims have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline typically results in losing the right to pursue compensation through the courts.
Exceptions That Can Extend the Filing Deadline
Certain circumstances may alter this timeline. If the injured party is a minor, the statute of limitations may be tolled until they reach the age of 18. Cases involving medical malpractice have different deadlines and specific notice requirements.
Claims Against Government Entities
Claims against government entities require filing an administrative claim within shorter timeframes before a lawsuit can proceed.
Given these complex timing requirements, it’s essential to consult with a Baltimore disfigurement attorney as soon as possible after your injury.
Early legal involvement allows your attorney adequate time to investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong claim while details remain fresh and witnesses are available.
Baltimore Scars and Disfigurement Claims FAQs
How Much is My Scarring and Disfigurement Claim Worth?
The value of your claim depends on numerous factors.
They include the severity and location of scarring, the number of surgeries required, the impact on your career and daily life, and the strength of evidence supporting your case. An attorney can provide a more accurate estimate after reviewing the specifics of your situation.
Will I Need to Go to Court?
Many scarring and disfigurement compensation claims settle through negotiations without going to trial.
However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, filing a lawsuit and proceeding to trial may be necessary to recover what you deserve.
Can I Still Receive Compensation If My Scars Can be Hidden By Clothing?
Yes.
While visible scarring often results in higher compensation, you can still recover damages for scars in less visible areas. The physical pain, required medical treatment, and emotional impact of any permanent scarring support a valid claim.
What if My Scarring Resulted From a Workplace Accident?
Workplace injuries typically fall under workers’ compensation, which provides benefits regardless of fault.
However, if a third party caused your injuries, you may be able to file a separate personal injury claim in addition to workers’ compensation benefits.