Claims, Compensation, and Settlement for Bone Fractures Caused by Car Accidents

Bone fractures and broken bones are common injuries victims sustain in car accidents. The severity of the injuries depends on the nature of the injuries and the circumstances of the crash. Broken bones can be severe, especially when the fracture is complex. Victims may require multiple surgeries and physical therapy and may have to take significant time off of work to recover. You may be entitled to compensation if you have suffered a bone fracture in a car accident caused by a negligent party.

The Difference Between Broken Bones and Bone Fractures

Broken bones and fractures may seem different, but a bone fracture is defined as a break in a person's bone structure. In other words, broken bones and bone fractures are the same.

Types of Bone Fractures

A car accident's force can cause many types of bone fractures. Some of the most common types of bone fractures include the following:

• Fibula (lower leg) and femur (upper leg) - broken legs are standard in auto accidents
• Spinal vertebrae of the neck or back - these typically occur during head-on or rear-end collisions and can result in partial or total paralysis
• Clavicle - the clavicle is among the most fragile bone in the human body and can quickly become fractured in various auto accident collisions
• Pelvic bone fractures - these types of fractures are more likely to occur in motorcycle accidents but can also happen in car accidents, especially when the airbag deploys with great force
• Skull-cranial fractures can be severe because they can cause damage to the victim's brain. Cranial injuries are also common when the victim hits their head on the window, steering wheel, or another object.
• Facial structure injuries - an airbag can damage facial bones due to the force of the impact. The jaw, nose, cheekbones, or orbital bones are susceptible to being fractured.
• Ribs and sternum - the sternum can become broken in car accidents and could lead to severe injuries to internal organs

Causes of Bone Fractures During Car Accidents

Several factors in a car accident can contribute to bone fractures. The force of the accident is the most common cause, but other elements that frequently lead to broken bones include the following:

• Striking pavement upon ejection
• Being ejected from a vehicle
• Being crushed by another object or vehicle
• Being struck by an airbag or other items in the vehicle

Pursuing Compensation After Suffering a Bone Fracture in a Car Accident

If you have a personal injury case due to a car accident resulting in a bone fracture, you may wonder if you are entitled to a settlement. The value of your case depends on the unique circumstances and details of your case. You can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver's insurance company, or you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit.

Determining Liability in Bone Fracture Accidents

Determining who was at fault for the accident is an essential first step and requires an in-depth investigation. The Arnold & Smith PLLC attorneys have the resources and experience necessary to investigate your case and determine which party or parties are at fault. We will also determine the total value of your claim, including your past and future medical expenses.

We can determine your case's value based on the type of fracture and the details surrounding its healing, treatment, and how much time you have had to take off of work. We can help you pursue damages for all of the medical bills, loss of income, property damage, and damages for emotional distress and pain and suffering. Workers' compensation could be a factor during the settlement process if a car accident occurred at work. Additionally, if the at-fault party acted egregiously or willfully, you may be entitled to additional punitive damages.

Discuss Your Case with an Experienced Attorney

Working with a personal injury attorney is important in pursuing the most compensation possible in your case. The legal team at Arnold & Smith, PLLC can provide you with the steps you should take and what to expect during the process, allowing you to focus on recovering from your bone fracture.

You only have a limited time to pursue a claim after suffering a bone fracture in a car accident case. The sooner you discuss your case with an attorney, the better. Contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, today to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys.

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