Facial injuries and emotional trauma

People should not be judged by their facial features. Unfortunately, due to social pressures and inherent biases, people are judged in this manner.

Our faces tell a story, and they play a key role in our daily communications. Not only do we rely on our mouths to utter the spoken word, but our facial expressions let people know how we are feeling.

Facial injuries are fairly common in road traffic collisions. Not only do these injuries leave physical marks, but they can also result in emotional scars. While you can pursue damages for physical injuries, you may also be able to factor in emotional and psychological trauma after your accident.

Common facial injuries in collisions

Like the rest of your body, bones make up the structure of your face. If your facial area comes into contact with part of the vehicle during the crash, these bones are susceptible to fractures. Broken noses, fractured cheekbones and orbital injuries can cause severe swelling, permanent scarring and even disfigurement in the most severe cases.

Your car is most likely powered by gas, which is highly flammable. The electrical components of your car can also overheat on occasion, especially during a crash. Your car may suddenly burst into flames. If it is structurally compromised, you may not be able to get out quickly. This can result in the possibility of burn injuries to the face. In extreme circumstances, these burn injuries may cause permanent scarring.

Post-traumatic stress disorder

One of the most common psychological conditions in victims of facial injuries is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The condition may present numerous symptoms, but sufferers frequently feel depressed, anxious and unable to socialize as they did before.

Thankfully, the stigma behind mental health issues has largely shifted in recent years. This includes during personal injury claims, where you will want to factor in any damage to your mental health that occurred due to someone else’s negligence.