Disfigurement & Scarring Workers' Compensation in San Bernardino, California
Quick Answer
Disfigurement & Scarring claims are reported by workers across San Bernardino, with settlements typically ranging from $25,000–$200,000+. The average workers' compensation settlement in San Bernardino is $61,200. Your case will be heard at the WCAB office at 464 W. 4th Street, Suite 239, San Bernardino, CA 92401. An experienced attorney who knows the San Bernardino board can help you maximize your recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Disfigurement & Scarring settlement values in California range from $25,000–$200,000+
- San Bernardino area settlements average $61,200 across all injury types
- Your WCAB office: 464 W. 4th Street, Suite 239, San Bernardino, CA 92401
- 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+
San Bernardino avg. across all injuries: $61,200
San Bernardino WCAB Office
State building parking lot is available for visitors. Enter from 4th Street. Security check required upon building entry.
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
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
Compression therapy
Custom compression garments to prevent hypertrophic scarring and keloids
Typical timeline: 6-24 months of daily wear
Steroid injections
Corticosteroid injections directly into hypertrophic scars or keloids to flatten them
Typical timeline: Series of 3-6 injections over several months
Factors That Affect Your Disfigurement & Scarring Settlement in San Bernardino
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 San Bernardino
- 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 San Bernardino WCAB office is at 464 W. 4th Street, Suite 239, San Bernardino, CA 92401 — arrive early as parking can be limited.
Disfigurement & Scarring Claims in Nearby Cities
Other Workplace Injuries in San Bernardino
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Disfigurement & Scarring in San Bernardino FAQ
What is the average disfigurement & scarring workers' comp settlement in San Bernardino?
Disfigurement & Scarring settlements in California typically range from $25,000–$200,000+. The overall average settlement in San Bernardino is $61,200. 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 San Bernardino?
San Bernardino workers' compensation claims are handled at the WCAB office at 464 W. 4th Street, Suite 239, San Bernardino, CA 92401. Phone: (909) 383-4341. 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 San Bernardino?
Most disfigurement & scarring cases take 12-24 months to resolve, though complex cases can take longer. The San Bernardino WCAB caseload affects scheduling. Having an experienced attorney who regularly appears at the San Bernardino board can help move your case forward efficiently.
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Our attorneys handle disfigurement & scarring claims at the San Bernardino 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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