Vaziri Law Group Personal Injury Attorneys is here to help you understand the legal aspects of broken bones caused by car accidents. When you suffer bone fractures in a car crash, it can be overwhelming, not just physically but financially too. It's important to know your rights and the steps to take to seek compensation.
Car accidents often lead to severe injuries, including broken bones in different parts of the body. These injuries can range from simple hairline fractures to more complex compound fractures that may require surgical repair. The steering wheel and impact from the car crash are common causes of broken bone injuries, especially in head-on collisions.
If you have suffered broken bones in a car accident, Vaziri Law Group helps you understand the legal process. We are committed to helping you recover compensation for your injuries and get the medical attention you need.
Common Types of Broken Bones in Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a variety of broken bones. These injuries range from fractures in the arms and legs to more serious injuries like spinal fractures.
A few types of common broken bones include:
Arm and Wrist Fractures
Arm and wrist fractures are common in car accidents. These injuries often occur when drivers or passengers use their hands to brace for impact. A broken arm or wrist may happen when the hands hit the steering wheel or the side window during a collision. Depending on the severity of the bone breaks, treatment may involve splints, casts, or, in some cases, surgical repair.
In severe cases, the wrist bones or arm bones may need surgical repair to ensure proper healing. A compound fracture, where the bone pierces the skin, requires immediate medical attention. Recovery usually includes physical therapy to regain strength and flexibility in the arm and wrist.
Leg and Knee Fractures
Leg fractures are common in car accidents, especially in high-impact collisions. Femur fractures and broken legs may occur due to the force of the car accident. Knee fractures are also prevalent when the knee hits the dashboard or the steering wheel during a crash.
These fractures can range from mild stress fractures to severe comminuted fractures, where the bone breaks into multiple pieces. Leg fractures often require a cast or surgical repair if the bone is displaced. Recovery involves rest, limited mobility, and often physical therapy to restore function.
Rib Fractures
Broken ribs are another common injury after a car crash. Rib fractures often happen when the upper body is thrown against the seatbelt or dashboard. Rib fractures can be very painful, and in some cases, they can cause damage to internal organs.
If you have broken ribs, it's important to follow medical advice for pain management and recovery. While rib fractures generally heal with time, there is a risk of complications like pneumonia due to difficulty breathing. Always seek medical attention for rib injuries to ensure proper healing.
Spinal Fractures (Back and Neck)
Spinal fractures are among the most serious broken bone injuries in car accidents. These injuries can affect your back and neck, leading to long-term pain or even paralysis. The spine is particularly vulnerable during head-on collisions, where the body is jolted forward, placing pressure on the spine.
Treatment for spinal fractures may involve surgery, bracing, and physical therapy. In some cases, patients may need to adjust to life with limited mobility. If you have spinal injuries, it's crucial to work closely with a medical provider to manage pain and ensure a safe recovery process.
Facial and Skull Fractures
Facial and skull fractures are common when the head makes contact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield. Facial fractures can include broken cheekbones, nose, or jaws, while skull fractures are more serious. These injuries may cause internal bleeding, swelling, or brain injury.
Surgical repair may be needed for facial fractures that affect facial aesthetics or function. If a skull fracture occurs, immediate medical care is critical to avoid complications like brain damage. These injuries can lead to long-term challenges, including nerve damage or vision problems.
Pelvic Fractures
Pelvic fractures can happen in car accidents when the body is compressed during the crash, especially in high-impact head-on collisions. The pelvis is a strong bone structure, but it can break under significant force. Pelvic fractures are often accompanied by injuries to nearby organs and tissues.
Treatment for pelvic fractures may include surgery, bracing, and rest. Recovery can be slow, and in some cases, a hip fracture or damage to the lower spine may result in permanent disability. Physical therapy is often required to restore mobility and function after recovery.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Broken Bones
Recognizing the signs of broken bones after an accident is crucial for prompt treatment. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible helps prevent complications and ensures proper recovery.
Signs of a Fracture
Some common signs of a fracture are:
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Pain: Sharp pain, especially when moving the injured area.
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Swelling: Swelling around the injured area.
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Bruising: Discoloration due to internal bleeding.
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Deformity: A visibly out-of-place bone or joint.
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Inability to move: Difficulty moving the injured part of the body.
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Puncture wounds: When the bone pierces the skin, it is a compound fracture.
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
How Broken Bones Are Diagnosed
Diagnosing bone fractures typically involves a physical examination and X-rays. Your healthcare provider will assess the area for swelling, deformities, or bruising. In some cases, a CT scan or MRI might be needed to get a clearer picture, especially for fractures near joints or the spine.
Once a bone fracture is confirmed, your doctor will discuss the appropriate treatment options, including whether you need surgical repair or can be treated with a cast or splint. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to prevent complications like infection or improper healing.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Broken Bones
If you've suffered broken bones due to an auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Knowing your legal rights and the types of compensation available can help you understand the next steps in seeking justice.
Here's what you need to know about liability and types of compensation for bone fractures.
Who Is Liable for Your Injury?
Determining who is liable for your broken bones depends on the circumstances of the car crash. If another driver's negligence caused the accident, that driver could be held liable. Common examples include drivers who fail to yield, run red lights, or drive recklessly.
In some cases, the vehicle manufacturer or a property owner could also be held liable if faulty equipment or unsafe conditions contributed to the accident.
If the at-fault party is insured, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical treatment and lost wages. If the liable party lacks insurance or isn't identified, you may need to rely on your own insurance coverage or pursue legal action.
Types of Compensation for Broken Bones
You may be entitled to various types of compensation for broken bone injuries, including:
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Medical Expenses: Covers the costs of treatment, hospitalization, and surgical repair.
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Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to inability to work after the injury.
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Pain and Suffering: Payment for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
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Property Damage: Compensation for repairs to your vehicle or any personal property damaged in the crash.
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Future Medical Costs: Covers any future surgeries or physical therapy needed for full recovery.
These types of compensation can help cover the immediate and long-term costs of broken bones.
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:
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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.
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Evidence gathering. We collect crucial evidence, including medical records, witness testimonies, and official reports. This thorough approach strengthens your negotiation position.
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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.
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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.
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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.
FAQs
What are the most common types of broken bones in car accidents?
In car accidents, the most common bone fractures include arm, leg, rib, and spinal fractures. Arm and wrist fractures happen when drivers use their hands to brace themselves during impact. Leg fractures, including femur fractures, are often caused by forceful contact with the dashboard or seat.
How do car accidents broken bones affect the human body?
Car accidents broken bones can have a significant impact on the human body. These injuries can affect movement, cause chronic pain, and limit daily activities. In some cases, broken bones may lead to permanent disability, particularly with fractures that require surgery or cause nerve damage. Immediate medical care is important to prevent complications.
What are the signs of a bone fracture?
Signs of a bone fracture include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected area. In severe cases, the bone may pierce the skin, resulting in a compound fracture. If you experience these symptoms after an accident, seek medical attention promptly to ensure proper treatment and prevent further damage.
How are common bone fractures treated?
Common bone fractures may be treated with non-surgical methods like casts, splints, or braces. For more severe fractures, such as compound fractures or multiple fractures, surgical repair may be necessary. After the bone has healed, physical therapy is often recommended to regain strength and mobility.
How long does it take to recover from car accidents broken bones?
The recovery time for car accidents broken bones depends on the type of fracture and the treatment required. Simple fractures may take a few weeks to heal, while more complex fractures may require several months. Physical therapy may also be needed for complete recovery, especially for fractures in the arms, legs, or spine.
Contact Our Los Angeles Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation
If you've suffered broken bones in a car accident, Vaziri Law Group Personal Injury Attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve. Car accidents broken bones can lead to long-term medical issues, pain, and high medical expenses. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Our team is dedicated to helping car accident victims through the legal process. We work with you to ensure your rights are protected and help you recover compensation for the injuries you've sustained. If you've been involved in an accident that caused broken bones, it's important to seek legal counsel to understand your options.
Contact us today for a free case consultation. Our car accident lawyers are ready to listen to your story and offer the support you need during this difficult time.