Broken Bones From Car Accidents

A car accident can lead to very painful injuries, including bone fractures. These injuries affect many parts of the body, and recovery often requires extensive treatment. Even a relatively mild collision can break delicate bones in a car occupant's arms, legs, or ribs. Because bones are so vulnerable to sudden, forceful impacts, drivers and passengers can suffer severe pain and lifelong consequences.

Broken bone injuries demand fast medical care. Without proper treatment, a minor fracture might worsen into something that requires surgery later. If you are hurt in a crash, always see a doctor to rule out more serious problems, such as a hairline fracture that could develop into a full break. Even the most common broken bones can lead to serious complications and drastic changes in your life. Let our team at Vaziri Law help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

Table Of Contents

• How Do Broken Bones Happen in Car Crashes?
• Common Types of Fractures in Car Accidents
• Common Complications Following a Bone Fracture
• How a Bone Fracture Can Make Your Life Harder
• Compensation for Broken Bones in Car Accidents
• Filing a Personal Injury Claim for Fracture Injuries
• Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Can Demand Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries
• Call Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

How Do Broken Bones Happen in Car Crashes?

Bone breaks from a car accident occur when your body experiences a sudden, powerful jolt. The collision forces bones past their normal range of motion and snap or crack under this stress. The shock can fracture wrists, arms, or legs when you slam against a steering wheel, dashboard, or door. The speed of the car crash determines how bad these breaks can get.

Even low-speed collisions may cause common broken bones that require medical care. Victims could suffer a compound fracture if a bone pierces the skin, leading to infection risks. Quick movements, such as jerking forward when the car stops suddenly, can create serious broken bone injuries. That is why seeking prompt medical attention can prevent complications and help you recover faster.

Common Types of Fractures in Car Accidents

Many factors determine which bones break in a crash, including where you sit and how the collision happens. Drivers often experience more arm or wrist fractures because they brace themselves against the steering wheel. Passengers might break ribs or hips if the force comes from the side. Below, we explain some of the most common fractures.

Arm, Leg, and Rib Fractures

Arm, leg, and rib fractures can occur when victims collide with the interior of the car. Striking the dashboard or steering wheel at high speeds generates enough force to break bones in a car. Rib fractures are especially painful because they make breathing difficult, while leg and arm injuries often limit mobility. Some breaks require setting the bone and using a cast for several weeks or even months.

Doctors will often check for hairline fracture signs if pain persists but does not show on an X-ray right away. These tiny cracks might not appear until days later, but they can still cause swelling and discomfort. Physical therapy becomes crucial once the bones begin to heal. Neglecting it can lead to lingering pain or long-term disability.

Skull Fractures and Head Injuries

Hitting your head on the windshield or side window can lead to skull fractures that require immediate medical attention. Even mild bumps to the head might cause serious issues if you do not see a doctor. A skull fracture can lead to dangerous bleeding or swelling in the brain. Early treatment reduces the chance of permanent disability or worse.

Head injuries are often more complex than standard bone fractures. Doctors might do scans to see if there is internal bleeding or brain swelling. Recovery can mean extended hospital stays, surgeries, and therapy to relearn certain skills. Traumatic brain injuries may also lead to seizures or cognitive difficulties in the future.

Hip Fractures and Leg Fractures

Hip fractures can be especially severe, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Car crashes can throw victims sideways or forward, slamming their hips against the vehicle's interior. Once the hip is broken, walking and standing can be nearly impossible without medical intervention. Leg fractures, such as pelvic fractures, can also severely limit your mobility.

Older passengers, or those with weaker bones, face greater risks for hip and leg injuries. The recovery process often takes months, involving rest, physical therapy, and careful monitoring for complications. Metal plates or rods might sometimes be placed in the leg to keep bones stable. While helping you heal, this hardware can lead to discomfort and require future procedures.

Complicated Fractures Requiring Surgery

Some fractures are more complicated, involving several broken pieces or damage to surrounding tissues. A compound fracture occurs when the bone protrudes through the skin, creating infection risks. These injuries demand special care, usually in the operating room, to clean the wound and realign the bone. Recoveries can be lengthy, with multiple procedures and therapy sessions.

Complicated fractures sometimes need metal pins, rods, or screws to hold everything in place. Clavicle fractures, for instance, may require surgical intervention if the bone pieces are far apart. Each break is unique, so your doctor will create a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. The long road to healing may also mean time off work and changes to your daily routine.

Common Complications Following a Bone Fracture

• Infection risk. Compound fractures or open wounds can let bacteria in. Prompt cleaning and antibiotics reduce the risk of serious infections.

• Nerve damage. Bone breaks can affect nearby nerves, causing numbness or chronic pain. Therapy and sometimes surgery help regain function.

• Long healing period. Healing times vary by break type. Complicated fractures or those needing surgery often keep you immobilized for weeks or months.

• Muscle weakness. Long periods of inactivity lead to atrophy. Physical therapy is essential to rebuild strength and regain mobility.

• Chronic pain. Even after the bone heals, lingering discomfort can remain. Advanced therapies or pain management plans may be required.

How a Bone Fracture Can Make Your Life Harder

• Everyday tasks. Basic movements like tying shoes or driving become tough with a broken limb. Simple chores may require outside help.

• Work limitations. You might need to take extended leave if your job involves physical activity. Lost wages add up and strain your finances.

• Family burden. Family members may need to provide extra care or modify schedules. Household roles can shift, causing stress for everyone.

• Long-term health effects. A serious break may never fully heal, leaving you with reduced mobility. Future surgeries or ongoing therapy may be necessary.

• Emotional toll. Feeling helpless or dependent on others can lead to anxiety or depression. Mental health support helps you cope with these challenges.

Compensation for Broken Bones in Car Accidents

When you have suffered broken bones in a car crash, you can pursue financial recovery through legal avenues. Compensation can cover both immediate medical bills and ongoing needs like physical therapy. In California, injured drivers or passengers may file a claim against the responsible party's insurance or their own policy if certain conditions apply.

Check out the main types of damages available when you seek compensation for a serious broken bone injury. Each category addresses specific losses, whether financial, emotional, or both.

Recovering Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation Costs

Doctors, hospitals, and therapy clinics often charge high rates for broken bone treatment. A single surgery to fix a compound fracture can cost thousands of dollars, not including follow-up visits. The at-fault driver's insurance may be responsible for these expenses. Your claim should reflect your current medical bills and future rehab costs.

You can file a personal injury lawsuit if insurance refuses to pay or offers too little. According to California Civil Code Section 1714, negligent parties must accept liability for the harm they cause. An attorney can help determine the fair amount you should receive based on the extent of your injuries. This ensures you do not face insurmountable financial strain on top of your physical suffering.

Lost Wages Due to Recovery Time

Broken bones often force you to miss work while you heal. Whether you can't perform physical tasks or need to attend multiple medical appointments, this time off affects your paycheck. The law allows you to seek damages for lost income if someone else's negligence caused your car accident. This applies to both full-time and part-time employees.

Future lost wages might also be relevant if your injury keeps you from returning to your old job in the same capacity. In such cases, you may qualify for compensation that covers your reduced earning potential. Proving this typically requires documentation of your salary history, plus medical proof of long-term limitations. A skilled attorney can guide you through the process of claiming both present and future lost wages.

Pain and Suffering Associated With Severe Fractures

Car accidents causing serious bone fractures often inflict tremendous pain and emotional distress. This suffering includes both physical discomfort and mental anguish, such as anxiety or depression. While pain and suffering damages can be subjective, California law recognizes their value in personal injury claims. Documenting doctor visits, therapy sessions, and changes in lifestyle supports these claims.

A judge or jury evaluates factors like the severity of your injury, how it disrupts your daily life, and whether you face permanent limitations. Expert testimony can strengthen your argument, giving a clearer picture of your trauma. Insurance companies may push back on these non-economic damages, but a comprehensive case approach helps secure fair compensation.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim for Fracture Injuries

A personal injury claim arises when another party's negligence causes your bone to break in a car crash. To succeed, you must show that the other driver was at fault and that their actions led to your injuries. This involves gathering medical evidence, accident reports, witness statements, and other proof. The following sections detail key steps to building a compelling argument.

Proving the Severity of Injuries Through Medical Records

Hospital visits, doctor notes, and diagnostic images like X-rays prove how severe your broken bones are. You should request copies of these records to keep for your legal claim. Detailed documentation connects your injuries directly to the car crash. Without clear medical evidence, insurance companies can challenge the extent of your suffering.

In addition, medical experts may testify on your behalf regarding the cause, treatment, and expected recovery timeline for your fracture. This testimony can be essential in disputes over whether you truly need ongoing care. Regular updates from your healthcare providers also help confirm that you are following prescribed treatment plans. Sticking to your doctor's recommendations shows your commitment to recovery.

Negotiating With Insurance for Fair Compensation

Once you have solid evidence, you or your lawyer can approach the at-fault driver's insurer to request compensation. Insurance companies often start with a lower offer, hoping you will accept quickly. Provide them with thorough proof—such as photos, doctor opinions, and accident details—to strengthen your negotiation position. Patience usually pays off, as a fair settlement might require back-and-forth discussions. Use our car accident settlement calculator to ensure you know what your case is worth.

Keep in mind that insurance adjusters do not work for you; their goal is to minimize payouts. Asking for too little can leave you footing the bill for future therapies or surgeries. A knowledgeable attorney understands the true value of broken bone injuries and can push for an appropriate sum. Reaching a mutual agreement avoids the uncertainty of court battles.

Taking the Case to Court if Necessary

Sometimes, negotiations fail, and you must file a lawsuit to recover full damages. Court proceedings involve presenting your evidence, questioning witnesses, and potentially going to trial. While litigation can be lengthy, it may be your best option if the insurer refuses to pay what you deserve. An experienced lawyer will guide you through each stage, from filing motions to arguing your case in front of a judge.

Filing a lawsuit also shows insurance companies you are serious about your claim. Many times, they increase their offer once they see you are prepared to fight. Whether the case settles in the courtroom hallway or goes before a jury, your primary goal remains the same: to receive compensation that covers your injuries and future needs.

Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer Can Demand Compensation for Your Car Crash Injuries

Our Los Angeles car accident lawyer can help you in a number of ways, including:

• Case assessment. We review the specifics of your accident and evaluate any serious broken bone injuries. Our detailed approach helps us form the best strategy for your claim.

• Evidence gathering. We collect crucial evidence, including medical records, witness testimonies, and official reports. This thorough approach strengthens your negotiation position.

• Communication with insurers. We handle phone calls and document exchanges to avoid mistakes. Insurance adjusters often try to undermine your case; we keep them in check.

• Negotiation and settlement. Our team fights for a fair resolution to cover all your needs, from immediate medical bills to future therapy. We do not accept low offers that fail to address your real losses.

• Litigation support. If negotiations stall, we will take your case to court. Presenting evidence of bone fractures and related costs to a judge or jury can secure better outcomes.

Call Our Los Angeles Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Facing complex legal rules and insurance claims after you suffered broken bones in a car crash can feel overwhelming. At Vaziri Law, we know how frightening these injuries are. We stand ready to guide you every step of the way. We work to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve. Take a closer look at our prior case results and client reviews to learn more. Contact us now for a free consultation, and let us help you move toward a stable, healthy recovery.