Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, and some of the most traumatic and life-altering affect the face. Unlike other parts of the body, the face is not only vital for basic functions like breathing, eating, and seeing—it also plays a major role in self-identity and emotional expression. When a collision leads to facial trauma, the damage can be both physically and emotionally devastating. In many cases, surgery is required to repair or reconstruct the injured areas. A car accident lawyer can help victims understand their legal options and pursue compensation for medical treatment, lost wages, and long-term effects. Our friends at Presser Law, P.A. detail what facial injuries can imply, below.
How Facial Injuries Happen In A Crash
During a collision, a driver or passenger can hit the steering wheel, dashboard, windshield, window, or airbag. Broken glass, flying debris, and loose objects inside the vehicle can also strike the face. In high-speed crashes or rollovers, the force of impact can be so severe that bones in the face break or shift out of alignment.
Even airbags, while lifesaving, can cause facial injuries when deployed with force. In some cases, poorly designed safety equipment or manufacturing defects can make injuries worse.
Common Types Of Facial Injuries That May Need Surgery
Fractures are one of the most common types of facial injuries in car accidents. These include broken noses, cheekbones, jawbones, or eye sockets. Facial bones are delicate and often require surgery to reset or reconstruct them, especially if they are misaligned or have affected the way a person eats, breathes, or sees.
Soft tissue damage—such as deep cuts, torn skin, or puncture wounds—may also require surgical intervention. These injuries often result in significant scarring and may need reconstructive or plastic surgery to restore function or appearance.
Dental injuries are also frequent in car crashes. Teeth can be knocked out, fractured, or loosened, sometimes requiring dental implants, bridges, or jaw surgery.
Eye injuries, including orbital fractures or lacerations near the eye, can affect vision and require surgical repair. In some cases, damage to the optic nerve or surrounding tissue can result in permanent vision loss.
Burns from fire, airbag chemicals, or exposure to hot surfaces can scar the face and often require skin grafts or cosmetic procedures to heal properly.
The Long-Term Impact Of Facial Trauma
Beyond physical pain and recovery time, facial injuries can lead to long-term emotional distress. Victims may struggle with changes in appearance, speech difficulties, or social anxiety due to scarring or disfigurement. Some people require multiple surgeries over time and must cope with the psychological effects of their trauma for years.
These injuries can also interfere with work, especially in careers that require public interaction or physical performance. The financial impact of ongoing treatment and lost income adds another layer of difficulty to an already overwhelming situation.
How A Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Facial injuries often result in extensive medical bills, long-term treatment plans, and emotional trauma. A car accident lawyer can help victims document their injuries, gather expert medical opinions, and build a strong case for compensation. There is key evidence that supports an injury claim. This may include current and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, reduced earning potential, and costs related to plastic or reconstructive surgery.
If the accident was caused by another driver’s negligence—or by a defective part such as a faulty airbag or windshield—your lawyer can help hold the responsible party accountable. Insurance companies may try to downplay facial injuries or delay payment, but legal representation ensures that your case is taken seriously and that all damages are considered.
If you or a loved one has suffered facial trauma in a car accident, don’t face it alone. A car accident lawyer can provide the support and legal experience needed to recover compensation and help you focus on healing—physically, financially, and emotionally.
