How much is a burn on the face worth?

Question

I am trying to get a realistic idea of what a burn on my face is worth. I have filed a claim with the nail spa's insurance carrier and am still waiting.. will not hold my breath. I do not really want to get a lawyer but might have to if they do not contact me. The burn was 1st degree almost 2nd because of blistering. This happened on 11/2 and is now healed but I have a jagged line and discoloration around it along with it feels a little different than the rest of my skin. This was caused by a nail salon burning me with the waxing they did and then putting rubbing alchol on it. thanks

The insurance company came out within the 30 days and interviewed me. I told them I do have pictures of the whole ugly thing from start till finish. It is right on the corner of my mouth near my smile line which makes it appear worse. It was the grosses and ugliest thing I have ever seen... it looked like I had major herpes or something! It also was very painfull.. i came to work with it and was treated by the doc with antibiotics. so now I guess i just have to wait to hear from them...

Did not provide insurance company with pic's yet or medical release.. i was just curious for my own info. if this was really worth anything for what happened and how I looked and now the mark left behind. I have a darker complexion so it basically looks purple in the whole area with the discolored line from the actual burn.

Answer 1

Well, you really don't give enough info. Hope you took pictures along the way--what you looked like immediately thereafter, and at different stages along the way.

The injury is compensable under a negligence theory. Also true for your pain and suffering, and any medical bills you incurred. Loss of work, future income, etc.

Now, as to the disfigurement. That is compensable also. But the disfigurement has to be permanent. Because it appears on the face, it will be seen by everyone, and therefore you can get big bucks.

You really should see an attorney that specializes in personal injury law. The Carrier may be waiting you out and not responding thinking you'll just let it drop. In most states, insurance has to respond to a claim within 30 days. Also, if you made the claim to the nail salon and instructed them to file it with their carrier, they may not have sent it on.

** Note: This answer has not created an attorney-client relationship. This is a general discussion of the subject matter of your question and not legal advice. Local laws or your particular situation may change the general rules. For a specific answer to your question you should consult legal counsel with whom you can discuss all the facts of your case. **

Answer 2

I disagree with the previous assessments of claim worth. I have received substantial sums for scarring. The experts I use provide a cost to repair, which is usually several thousand dollars. Most scars can't be eliminated fully. Facial scars are worth getting an attorney. It is not a good idea to talk to the insurance company if you do consider getting an attorney. You can say things that seem innocent, but will be used to reduce your claim.

Answer 3

The first poster was correct - burned tissue takes up to 6 months to heal completely.

As for being "grossest, ugliest" -- not to be mean, but there are a lot of people hurt a hell of a lot worse than a small burn on their cheek -- imagine being third degree burns on 40, 50, or 60% of your body. Now that is something that is "earth shattering".

As for compensation - I see your medical bills being paid, and a very nominal pain and suffering. Which is all a very minor burn deserves.

Answer 4

It takes at least six month of healing to determine if there will be a scar. First and second degree burns usually do not leave scars.
It sounds like your claim is worth $500.