Cuts and lacerations can occur in almost every car crash and other types of accidents. Some people mistakenly believe that cuts and lacerations are not a serious injury. However, injuries to the skin can cause severe pain, disfigurement, disability, and, in some cases, even death.
Also, a serious laceration injury could potentially lead to the amputation of a hand, finger, arm, foot, toe, or another part of your body, not to mention that cuts and lacerations are often associated with painful and life-long treatments.
Fact: Cuts and lacerations account for approximately 30% of all work-related injuries in the United States. Those who suffered cuts or lacerations at work may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
The Difference Between a Cut and a Laceration
While both cuts and lacerations are injuries to the skin, there is a difference between the two. Typically, a cut or laceration can occur any time the skin makes contact with sharp objects such as broken glass.
Lacerations tend to be deeper and more severe than cuts. Often, cuts can be treated with a bandage and basic first aid, while lacerations are often associated with severe nerve damage that can cause disability. When treated properly, both cuts and lacerations heal within about two weeks, though serious lacerations could leave permanent scars.
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SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY TODAYTypes of Cuts and Lacerations
There are various types of cuts and lacerations, including but not limited to:
- Cut lacerations are the most common type that occurs when a sharp object goes through the top lawyers of the skin. While most cut lacerations are treated with a bandage, some may require stitches and sutures.
- Over-stretching lacerations occur when an object hits and pulls the skin, causing tears of the skin. An overstretching laceration may require several stitches to heal.
- Avulsions occur when something comes into contact with the skin and peels it away, removing all three layers of the skin. Avulsions are associated with a high risk of infection.
- Split lacerations are caused by objects crushing and splitting the skin.
Consequences of Cuts and Lacerations
Contrary to popular belief, cuts and lacerations are not minor injuries. While some lacerations and cuts are healed within days or weeks and leave no visible scars, others can cause permanent disfigurement or disability.
The most common consequences associated with cuts and lacerations include:
- Amputation. When a laceration is deep enough or has resulted in infection or sepsis, the victim may undergo an amputation. It may be necessary to remove a limb either due to poor circulation or infections caused by lacerations.
- Disfigurement. Victims who suffer facial lacerations may have a claim for disfigurement if their injury leaves permanent scars or requires surgery.
- Infection. Cuts and lacerations that are not treated properly have an increased risk of infection. Since lacerations are associated with a high risk of infection, a victim could even die from complications.
Unfortunately, many people choose to wait to let their cuts or lacerations heal on their own. However, not seeking immediate medical attention could put you at risk of preventable complications, not to mention that your failure to get medical care could jeopardize your claim. It is also important to speak with a Ponca City cuts and lacerations attorney to investigate your particular case and help you seek compensation for your losses and damages.
Contact our personal injury lawyers at BDIW Law, to schedule a free case review. Call at 580-765-9660.
