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Disfigurement & Scarring Workers' Compensation in Riverside, California

David Lamonica, Esq. · California Workers' Compensation Attorney
Reviewed by David Lamonica, Esq. · Board Certified Workers' Compensation Specialist
Published January 1, 2025
Updated March 26, 2026

Quick Answer

Disfigurement & Scarring claims are reported by workers across Riverside, with settlements typically ranging from $25,000–$200,000+. The average workers' compensation settlement in Riverside is $59,900. Your case will be heard at the WCAB office at 3737 Main Street, Suite 300, Riverside, CA 92501. An experienced attorney who knows the Riverside board can help you maximize your recovery.

Key Takeaways

  • Disfigurement & Scarring settlement values in California range from $25,000–$200,000+
  • Riverside area settlements average $59,900 across all injury types
  • Your WCAB office: 3737 Main Street, Suite 300, Riverside, CA 92501
  • Report injuries to your employer within 30 days and file a DWC-1 claim form
  • Free consultation available — represented workers recover 3-5x more on average
  • Report your injury immediately even if scarring is not yet apparent - it develops as wounds heal

Disfigurement & Scarring Settlement Range

$25,000–$200,000+

Riverside avg. across all injuries: $59,900

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Riverside WCAB Office

3737 Main Street, Suite 300, Riverside, CA 92501 (951) 782-4100

Metered street parking is available on Main St and University Ave. Several city parking garages are within walking distance.

Disfigurement & Scarring Symptoms to Document

Visible scarring

Permanent discoloration, texture changes, or raised/depressed areas where skin was damaged and healed abnormally

Scar contracture

Tightening of scar tissue that restricts movement, particularly across joints or the face

Hypertrophic scarring

Raised, red scars that remain within the boundaries of the original wound but are prominent and visible

Keloid formation

Scar tissue that grows beyond the original wound boundaries, creating large, raised, and often painful scars

Sensitivity and pain

Scarred areas may be hypersensitive to touch, temperature, or sun exposure, causing ongoing discomfort

Itching

Chronic itching in scarred areas, particularly during healing and when scars are exposed to heat

Psychological distress

Depression, social anxiety, body image issues, and avoidance of social situations due to appearance

Functional limitations

Scar contractures limiting range of motion in joints, facial expression, or hand function

Treatment Options Covered by Workers' Comp

Wound care and initial healing

Proper wound management to minimize scarring during initial healing phase

Typical timeline: 2-6 weeks for initial wound closure

Covered

Silicone gel sheets and creams

Medical silicone products applied to scars to flatten and fade them during maturation

Typical timeline: 3-12 months of continuous application

Covered

Compression therapy

Custom compression garments to prevent hypertrophic scarring and keloids

Typical timeline: 6-24 months of daily wear

Covered

Steroid injections

Corticosteroid injections directly into hypertrophic scars or keloids to flatten them

Typical timeline: Series of 3-6 injections over several months

Covered

Factors That Affect Your Disfigurement & Scarring Settlement in Riverside

Location of scarring

Face and hands receive highest compensation; trunk and legs receive less

Facial scar: $75,000-$200,000+ vs. trunk scar: $10,000-$40,000

Size and visibility

Larger, more visible scars receive higher compensation

Small facial scar: $25,000-$50,000 vs. extensive facial burns: $150,000-$300,000+

Functional impact

Contractures limiting movement increase disability rating and settlement

Facial scar with functional limitation: adds 10-20% to permanent disability

Ability to conceal

Scars that cannot be hidden with clothing receive higher awards

Face and hand scars visible in all situations receive highest compensation

Filing Your Disfigurement & Scarring Claim in Riverside

  • Report your injury immediately even if scarring is not yet apparent - it develops as wounds heal
  • Document the initial wound with photographs before healing begins
  • Take regular photographs of scarring as it heals and matures over months
  • Request referral to a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for scar evaluation
  • Begin psychological treatment if you are experiencing depression or social anxiety
  • Request evaluation specifically for 'serious and permanent disfigurement' compensation
  • Keep records of how scarring affects your daily life and social interactions
  • Do not settle until scars are fully mature (typically 12-24 months after injury)
  • Document any comments or reactions from others about your scarring
  • Request all available scar treatments - laser, steroid injections, revision surgery
  • The Riverside WCAB office is at 3737 Main Street, Suite 300, Riverside, CA 92501 — arrive early as parking can be limited.

Disfigurement & Scarring Claims in Nearby Cities

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Helpful Guides for Disfigurement & Scarring Claims

Disfigurement & Scarring in Riverside FAQ

What is the average disfigurement & scarring workers' comp settlement in Riverside?

Disfigurement & Scarring settlements in California typically range from $25,000–$200,000+. The overall average settlement in Riverside is $59,900. Your actual settlement depends on factors including your wages, the severity of your disability rating, your age, occupation, and the quality of your medical evidence.

Where do I file a disfigurement & scarring workers' comp claim in Riverside?

Riverside workers' compensation claims are handled at the WCAB office at 3737 Main Street, Suite 300, Riverside, CA 92501. Phone: (951) 782-4100. First, report your injury to your employer within 30 days, then complete the DWC-1 form they are required to give you within one business day of your report.

How long does a disfigurement & scarring workers' comp case take in Riverside?

Most disfigurement & scarring cases take 12-24 months to resolve, though complex cases can take longer. The Riverside WCAB caseload affects scheduling. Having an experienced attorney who regularly appears at the Riverside board can help move your case forward efficiently.

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Our attorneys handle disfigurement & scarring claims at the Riverside WCAB regularly. We understand local procedures, know the judges, and fight for maximum compensation. Free consultation — no fees unless we win.

Settlement values are estimates based on historical California workers' compensation data and are not guarantees. Every case is unique. Consult with an attorney for advice specific to your situation.

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