Accidents and Injuries Involving Bone Fractures
Bone Fractures are common injuries in motor vehicle accidents. Broken bones occur when the forces imposed by the crash exceed the strength of the bones themselves. Many accident victims have a broken arm, broken wrist, or broken hands and fingers as a result of bracing for the side impact or head-on collision. Impacts with a windshield, dashboard or the side of the vehicle can cause skull fracture, a broken nose, fractures to the cheek and chin areas, as well as the jaw. Collisions with a lot of force can result in broken legs, a broken ankle, even a crushed or broken pelvis. Pedestrians struck in a crosswalk or hit by a car often experience broken knees, as well as broken bones in their backs and necks.
Fractures are usually divided into the following categories:
- Simple fracture – the bone does not break through the skin
- Compound fracture – the bone breaks through the skin creating an open wound, even though the bone(s) may withdraw back below the skin after the incident
- Complete fracture – the bone breaks into two or more pieces
- Incomplete fracture – the bone may be cracked or split but does not break all the way through (also known as a “hairline” fracture)
Treatment For Bone Fractures
Normally, a broken bone is immobilized using a splint or cast until the bone has completely healed. These common injuries are quite painful, and when severe enough, can even require multiple surgeries and extensive physical or occupational therapy to repair. Some of these procedures require medical devices to secure or realign the broken bones. Doctors will often insert screws or pins, and attach plates to reconstruct severe fractures. Healing can require weeks or months causing a loss of income from your job and extensive medical bills.
It is so important not to settle too quickly with the insurance company when broken bones are involved. The adjuster may be pushing for a quick resolution, but it takes time to genuinely understand the long-term consequences of these injuries. Joints that have been damaged in an accident are more susceptible to painful and sometimes disabling arthritis. Damage to nerves, and associated muscles, ligaments, tendons and disks may take several months to fully manifest.
Contact An Ohio Law Firm With A Proven Track Record Representing Victims With Broken Bones And Fractures
Contact us to discuss what happened in your unique circumstances and how we can help. At Clark, Perdue & List we will provide a free consultation to explain the applicable laws and to help you to understand what to expect from here. Our reputation in the legal community is one of leadership and a proven track record of success. Clients with broken bones and fractures praise us for our dedication and aggressive approach. We will help to keep the pressure to accept a premature settlement offer from the insurance company off of your back, and help you to focus on getting the medical care you need. For help, contact us, call us at 614-469-1400 or phone toll free at 800-647-7003. You can trust us to manage the legal details and help to provide peace of mind to you and your family.