If you have a scar from a work injury it might be worth something (and it might not)
When someone sustains a permanent scar from a job accident it can possibly entitle you to compensation for what is called disfigurement. There are a few things to think about in these cases:
1. You can't settle a scar case until your scar is at least six months old.
2. Scars that occur above your knees or below the breast line do not qualify for compensation (although you might be able to get compensation for permanent partial disability if there is some other problem to that part of the body). Please note that scars on your arms in between these two points can get compensation.
3. A scar on your face is worth more money that any other part of your body.
4. A scar that is raised or keyloid has more settlement value.
5. You can't get permanent partial disability (ppd) and dis-figuration money for the same body part. e.g. if you are cut by a saw at work and sever a tendon, you will get ppd, but won't get disfigurement.
This is one area of workers' compensation where your medical records don't help a Judge decide what your case is worth. If we can't settle a scar case we usually just take our client in front of the Judge and let him/her offer their opinion. The case typically settles after that.
We are workers' compensation attorneys that help people with Illinois work injuries anywhere in IL via our statewide network of attorneys. Contact us and we will answer your questions or find the right lawyer for your situation.
