Can I Receive Compensation for Disfigurement in Tennessee?

Depending on the type and severity of an accident, resulting injuries can leave permanent scars or deformities to a victim’s body. Disfigurement is one of the most emotionally and physically devastating outcomes of a serious injury. Whether you were involved in a car accident, a fall, an animal attack, medical malpractice, or any other incident, disfigurement can lead to long-term psychological and physical effects. Depending on the details of your situation, you may be able to receive compensation for the disfigurement that you have suffered. For more information and skilled legal advice, contact a knowledgeable Memphis personal injury lawyer today.

What is Disfigurement?

Disfigurement generally includes any permanent or visible damage done to an individual’s appearance. This can include burns, loss of limbs, surgical scars, facial injuries, injuries that limit mobility, or any scarring or ailment that is visibly noticeable, especially on the face, neck, or hands.

It is an impairment of a person’s appearance and aesthetic beauty. While some may consider it vain, having a permanent change in appearance can significantly impact a person both mentally and physically.

Can I Receive Compensation for Disfigurement in TN?

Recovering compensation for medical expenses and financial losses associated with your accident and injury is generally a given. As long as you can provide evidence proving how the defendant caused the incident and is liable for your injuries, you can recover economic damages like surgeries, medication, physical therapy, lost income, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and more. However, disfigurement is not technically a financial loss. So, can you receive compensation for a permanent alteration to your appearance?

The answer is yes, you may be entitled to compensation for disfigurement in your Tennessee personal injury case. Disfigurement is considered a non-economic damage, similar to pain and suffering or loss of enjoyment of life. The law recognizes the hardship that disfigurement can cause, especially if it involves an amputation or a noticeable marking on a person’s face.

Disfigurement can result in:

• Limited mobility
• Chronic pain
• The development of depression, anxiety, PTSD, etc.
• Isolation, shame, and embarrassment
• Affected personal relationships
• Affected employment relationships and career opportunities
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The above and more can be compensated through a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

How is Disfigurement Calculated?

Once it has been determined that the defendant is liable for your injury and disfigurement, the amount you are entitled to must be calculated. There is no simple way or one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should receive. However, the following factors can influence the amount you may receive.

• The location of the disfigurement
• The severity and permanence of the disfigurement
• The impact on your quality of life
• The associated medical treatments and costs
• Whether the disfigurement limits your career opportunities

If you have questions or concerns about your right to compensation, do not hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury attorney at Ballin, Ballin & Fishman, PC today.