Whenever a car accident occurs, regardless of the cause, it will often leave drivers and passengers with broken bones and fractures. Not only is a broken bone painful, but it can also result in significant medical bills. If you weren’t to blame for the accident, you deserve compensation to cover your medical expenses and other accident-related financial losses.
A Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh car accident attorney can help you obtain that compensation. We’ll keep you informed throughout your case and call in expert witnesses if necessary to give you the best chance of getting the money you deserve.
Types of Broken Bones Caused by Car Accidents
Car accidents are a common cause of broken bones, and the type of fracture sustained will depend on several factors, including the speed of the collision, the location of the impact, and the age and overall health of the individual. Here are some of the most common types of broken bones caused by car accidents:
- Skull fractures: These are severe injuries that can cause brain damage, hearing loss, or vision impairment.
- Rib fractures: These are also common in car accidents and can cause significant pain and discomfort, making it difficult to breathe and move around.
- Pelvic fractures: A broken pelvis can cause severe pain, difficulty moving, and damage internal organs.
- Spinal fractures: These can be among the most severe types of injuries sustained in car accidents and can result in paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
- Arm and leg fractures: The severity of a broken arm or leg can range from a minor hairline fracture to a severe compound fracture that requires surgery and an extended recovery period.
Treatment Options for Broken Bones
The treatment options for broken bones depend on the severity and location of the fracture, as well as the overall health and age of the patient. Here are a few of those options:
- Immobilization: This is the most common treatment for simple fractures, where a cast or splint is used to immobilize the affected area, allowing the bone to heal on its own. Immobilization may also be used after surgery to help the bone heal correctly.
- Surgery: In more complex or severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to realign the bone or to insert screws, plates, or other devices to hold the bone in place during the healing process.
- Medication: A doctor may prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain associated with a broken bone and reduce inflammation and swelling.
- Rehabilitation: Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be necessary to restore strength, mobility, and range of motion in the affected area, especially after immobilization.
How Much Does a Broken Bone Cost?
The cost of a broken bone can vary widely. The following will give you a general idea of what people suffering from this injury will generally have to spend.
- Emergency room visit: The cost of an emergency room visit for a broken bone can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the injury and the specific hospital or medical center.
- Imaging and diagnostic tests: X-rays and other diagnostic tests may be necessary to diagnose a broken bone properly. These can cost several hundred dollars or more, depending on the type of test.
- Treatment costs: Treating a broken bone can range from a few thousand dollars for simple immobilization to tens of thousands for surgery and other more complex treatments.
- Rehabilitation costs: Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be necessary after a broken bone. However, these costs can add up over time, especially if multiple sessions are required.
Serious Consequences Associated with Broken Bones
Broken bones can lead to a range of severe consequences, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Here are just a few.
- Chronic pain: Some patients may experience chronic pain after a broken bone. This pain can be even worse if the injury affects nerves or joints.
- Long-term disability: In some cases, a broken bone can lead to long-term disability, mainly if the injury affects mobility or requires extensive rehabilitation.
- Reduced range of motion: Broken bones can affect your range of motion. Especially if the injury involves a joint or if there is significant scarring or inflammation.
- Nerve or blood vessel damage: If a bone splinters, that can damage nerves or blood vessels. This can lead to chronic pain, weakness, or other long-term complications.
- Osteoarthritis: Broken bones can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis, leading to chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
It is essential for patients to seek prompt medical attention for broken bones. This can help to minimize the risk of severe consequences and ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Surgery or other interventions are sometimes necessary to prevent or manage serious complications.
Recovering Damages from Broken Bones and Fractures
You might have done all the right things. You purchased comprehensive auto coverage and uninsured/underinsured coverage. But either your insurance company is making it difficult to obtain compensation, or the at-fault driver’s insurer isn’t cooperative.
If you suffered a broken bone due to someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to recover damages for your injuries. Damages may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and others. Here are some steps to take to recover damages for your broken bones:
- Seek medical attention: It is important to promptly seek medical attention, as this can help to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Medical records will also be critical evidence for your injury claim.
- Document the accident: Take pictures of the accident scene if possible and get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Contact a personal injury attorney: A personal injury attorney can investigate to determine all the parties responsible for the accident. They can also negotiate with insurance companies to obtain a fair settlement.
- File a lawsuit: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can file a lawsuit. Your attorney can represent you in court, turning to expert witnesses to strengthen your case if needed.
Contact KMW to Schedule a Free Case Evaluation with a Car Accident Attorney
At Keller, Melchiorre & Walsh, we believe we can offer the effective, aggressive representation needed to help you obtain every dollar you deserve. You won’t pay anything unless we achieve a successful outcome on your behalf. Use our online form or call for a free case evaluation.