Car accidents can cause severe injuries, especially to the face. The force of the impact, broken glass and other debris can all lead to serious facial trauma.
Some injuries heal with time, but others have lasting consequences. Below are some of the more serious facial injuries seen in traffic collisions.
Fractured facial bones
The face has many delicate bones, including the nose, cheekbones and jaw. The impact of a crash can fracture these bones, leading to severe pain, swelling and even difficulty speaking or eating. Jaw fractures may require wiring to heal properly, while cheek and eye socket fractures might need reconstructive surgery. In serious cases, the cosmetic damage may be permanent.
Deep lacerations
Shattered glass and metal particles can cause deep lacerations. These wounds may lead to significant blood loss, nerve damage or permanent scarring. Surgery or skin grafts may be needed to restore function and appearance in serious cases. This process can take months or even years, and it is usually very expensive.
Eye injuries
The force of a collision can injure the eyes. Retinal detachment, corneal damage or fractured eye sockets can lead to vision problems and blindness. In some cases, loss of vision may be permanent.
Facial injuries can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Scarring and disfigurement may lead to confidence issues, while nerve damage can cause ongoing pain or numbness.
You may be entitled to personal injury compensation if you have suffered these injuries in a crash. Compensation can’t undo the accident, but it can cover your medical expenses and lost wages.