A woman from the Midlands who suffered an unusual facial injury in a road accident has been paid compensation out of court.

Lisa Partington, 36, was waiting in a line of stationary traffic in her car when she was shunted from behind in a three-car collision in 2004.

The force of the impact caused her to be thrown forwards, which is when she became aware of pain in her mouth and face, the Sunday Mercury reports.

She was told by doctors that her injuries were due to bruising and would subside, but the discolouration and swelling did not go down and Ms Partington was referred to a facial injuries specialist.

Nerve damage was then diagnosed and Ms Partington was advised this would likely be permanent.

Ms Partington claims the damage, which causes her face to bruise and swell during hot and cold weather, has severely affected her quality of life, as well as forcing her to remain off work for two years.

She has now been paid compensation by the insurance firm of the driver she claims was responsible, although the firm did not admit liability.

"Although I am reminded of the accident every time I look in the mirror, I’m determined not to let it get me down and the compensation settlement means I can now look forward and hopefully move on," Ms Partington remarked.

Anyone injured in such an accident should seek legal advice as they could be eligible for compensation if it can be proved that another party was responsible for the incident.