The Most Common Broken Bones in Car Accidents
Indiana is a bustling city with a high rate of motor vehicle accidents. Each year, around 200,000 car accidents occur in Indiana, resulting in various injuries, including broken bones. Car accidents can be traumatic and have long-lasting effects on the victims. Depending on the nature and severity of the accident, individuals involved can suffer broken bones in different parts of their bodies.
If you or someone you love has been involved in a car accident and suffered from broken bone injuries, it is important to understand your rights and options for pursuing compensation. Doehrman Buba Ring is here to help. Our experienced car accident attorneys have helped numerous clients in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana to obtain the compensation they deserve for their injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Broken Bones in Car Accidents
When a car accident occurs, the impact and force involved can cause bones to break. A bone fracture is a medical term used to describe a broken bone. Fractures from car accidents can range from minor to severe, depending on the type and location of the break. Common types of fractures include compound fractures, hairline fractures, and comminuted fractures.
A compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, occurs when the broken bone pierces through the skin. This type of fracture is considered severe and requires immediate medical attention. On the other hand, a hairline fracture is a small crack or bruise in the bone that can be difficult to detect but still requires medical attention. Comminuted fractures involve the bone breaking into three or more pieces and often require surgical repair.
In car accidents, the type of fracture can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. The force of impact, the position of the body during the accident, and the use of safety features such as seat belts can all contribute to the type and severity of the fracture. It is important to note that even seemingly minor fractures can cause significant pain and discomfort, and proper medical treatment should be sought for all types of fractures.
Common Broken Bones from Car Accidents in Indiana
In Indiana, car accidents can result in a variety of broken bones. Some of the most common broken bones from car accidents include ribs, clavicle fractures, arm (radius/ulna) fractures, tibia/fibula fractures, face and skull fractures, wrist (scaphoid) fractures, leg (femur/tibia) fractures, hip and pelvic fractures. The severity of these fractures can vary, but all require medical attention and may necessitate long-term care and treatment.
Ribs
Ribs are commonly fractured in car accidents due to the impact of the collision. The force of the accident can cause the ribs to break or crack, resulting in severe pain and discomfort. Some key points to understand about rib fractures in car accidents include:
- Rib fractures can occur from the pressure of a seat belt or from hitting the steering wheel during a collision
- Symptoms of rib fractures include sharp pain, difficulty breathing, and bruising
- Treatment for rib fractures typically involves pain management and rest, although severe cases may require surgery
- It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a rib fracture, as complications such as punctured lungs can arise from these injuries
Clavicle Fractures
Clavicle fractures, also known as collarbone fractures, are common in car accidents. The clavicle is a fragile bone that connects the shoulder to the chest. During a car accident, the force of the impact can cause the clavicle to break. Here are some important points to understand about clavicle fractures:
- Clavicle fractures often occur when the force of the impact is applied to the shoulder belt, causing the bone to break
- Symptoms of a clavicle fracture include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm
- Treatment for clavicle fractures may involve immobilization with a sling, physical therapy, or, in severe cases, surgery
- It is important to seek medical attention for a suspected clavicle fracture, as proper treatment can aid in the healing process and prevent long-term complications
Arm (Radius/Ulna)
The bones in the arm, specifically the radius and ulna, are among the strongest in the body. However, they can still fracture in a car accident due to the force and impact involved. Here are some important points about arm fractures in car accidents:
- Arm fractures can occur when the arms are jerked around with great force during a car crash
- Symptoms of an arm fracture may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the arm
- Treatment for arm fractures can range from immobilization with a cast to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the fracture
- Physical therapy may be necessary to regain strength and mobility in the affected arm
Tibia/Fibula Fractures
Fractures of the tibia and fibula, the two bones in the lower leg, are common in car accidents, especially in motorcycle accidents. The lower leg is not restrained by a seat belt or other safety device, making it susceptible to injury during a car crash. Here are some important points about tibia/fibula fractures:
- The tibia and fibula are commonly broken in car accidents due to the force and impact involved
- Symptoms of tibia/fibula fractures may include pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
- Treatment for lower leg fractures can range from casting to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the fracture
- Recovery from tibia/fibula fractures may involve physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the leg
Face and Skull Fractures
The face and skull are vulnerable to fractures in car accidents, especially when the head collides with the airbag, steering wheel, or dashboard. Facial fractures can result in serious injuries and may require immediate medical attention. Here are some important points about face and skull fractures:
- Face and skull fractures can occur when the head strikes a hard surface in the vehicle during a car accident
- Symptoms of facial fractures may include pain, swelling, deformity, and difficulty with vision or breathing
- Treatment for face and skull fractures depends on the severity and location of the fracture and may involve surgery and long-term care
- It is crucial to seek medical attention for suspected facial fractures, as they can be associated with other serious injuries, such as brain damage
Wrist (Scaphoid)
Wrist fractures, specifically scaphoid fractures, can occur in car accidents when the wrists are not restrained or protected during the event of a crash. Here are some important points to understand about wrist fractures:
- Wrist fractures can result from the force and impact of a car crash when the wrists are not properly protected or restrained
- Symptoms of a wrist fracture may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the wrist
- Treatment for wrist fractures may involve casting, splinting, or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture
- Safety features such as airbags and seat belts may help reduce the risk of wrist fractures in car accidents
Femur Fractures (Thigh Bone)
Fractures of the leg, including the femur, can occur in car accidents. The femur, or thigh bone, is one of the strongest bones in the body but can still break under significant force. Femur fractures can be particularly painful. Here are some important points about leg fractures:
- Leg fractures can occur when the legs collide with hard surfaces or are crushed between the seat and the dashboard in a car accident
- Symptoms of leg fractures may include severe pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the leg
- Treatment for leg fractures may involve casting, splinting, or surgery, depending on the severity of the fracture
- Recovery from leg fractures may involve physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the leg
Pelvic and Hip Fractures
A hip or pelvic fracture can occur in car accidents, especially in motorcycle accidents where the lack of protection increases the risk of injury. Here are some important points about hip and pelvic fractures:
- Hip and pelvic fractures can result from the force and impact involved in a car accident, particularly in motorcycle accidents
- Symptoms of hip and pelvic fractures may include severe pain, difficulty walking, and swelling
- Treatment for hip and pelvic fractures may involve surgery, physical therapy, and an extended period of bed rest
- Recovery from hip and pelvic fractures may require significant rehabilitation and long-term care
Initial Steps To Take Following a Car Accident with Suspected Fractures
If you are involved in a car accident and suspect you have suffered fractures, it is important to take the following initial steps:
Seek Medical Attention
The first and most crucial step is to seek immediate medical attention. Fractures can be serious injuries and require proper diagnosis and treatment from a medical professional. Do not delay seeking medical attention, as prompt treatment can prevent further complications and aid in the healing process.
Documenting Your Injuries for Legal Purposes
It is important to document your injuries for legal purposes, especially if you plan to pursue compensation for your injuries. Take photographs of any visible injuries, such as bruises or swelling, and keep copies of all medical records and treatment plans related to your fractures. This documentation will be useful when filing an accident claim.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer
To protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, contact a car accident lawyer experienced in handling cases involving fractures and other injuries, like those with Doehrman Buba Ring. Our Indiana car accident lawyers can guide you through the legal process, help gather evidence to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your best interests.
By taking these initial steps, you can ensure that your fractures are properly diagnosed, treated, and documented, and that your legal rights are protected.
Why Should You Pursue Compensation For Your Car Accident Injuries?
Pursuing compensation for your car accident injuries, including broken bones, can help alleviate the financial burden associated with medical costs and lost wages. Here are some important reasons to consider pursuing compensation:
Medical Costs: Fractures often require extensive medical treatment, including X-rays, surgery, and physical therapy. The costs associated with treatments can quickly add up. By seeking compensation, you can recover the costs of your medical expenses and any future medical care related to your injuries.
Lost Wages: Fractures can make it difficult or impossible to work, resulting in lost wages and financial strain. Compensation can help cover the income you have due to your injuries and any future loss of earning capacity.
Holding At-Fault Parties Accountable: Filing an accident claim allows you to hold the at-fault party accountable for their negligence. It sends a message that reckless or careless behavior will not go unpunished and may help prevent similar accidents in the future.
By pursuing compensation for your car accident injuries, you can focus on your recovery without the added stress of financial burdens. Consulting with our Indiana car accident lawyers will help you navigate the legal process and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation.
What Compensation Is Available to Car Accident Victims In Indiana?
In Indiana, car accident victims who are found to be less than 51% at fault for the accident may be eligible to collect damages. This is in accordance with Indiana’s comparative fault system, which allows for the recovery of compensation proportionate to the victim’s degree of fault in the accident. Compensation can include:
Medical Expenses: The costs of medical treatment, including X-rays, surgery, hospital stays, and physical therapy, should be included in the calculation of damages.
Lost Wages: The income you have lost due to your injuries and any future loss of earning capacity should be considered when determining the compensation you are entitled to.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the fractures can also be sought.
Future Expenses: If your fractures require long-term care or ongoing medical treatment, the cost of these future expenses should be included in the calculation of damages.
Consulting with an Indiana car accident lawyer experienced in handling cases involving fractures can help you determine the full extent of damages you may be entitled to and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.
How Our Experienced Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
Our experienced car accident lawyers at Doehrman Buba Ring can provide the legal representation you need to pursue compensation for your broken bones. Here are some ways our lawyers can help:
Expert Legal Advice: Our lawyers can provide you with expert legal advice and guide you through the claims process, ensuring that your rights are protected.
Gathering Evidence: Our lawyers will gather all necessary evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements, to build a strong case for compensation.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Our lawyers will handle all negotiations with insurance companies to ensure that you receive fair compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
Representation in Court: If necessary, our lawyers will represent you in court, fighting for your rights and advocating for the maximum compensation you deserve.
By enlisting the help of our experienced car accident lawyers, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal aspects of your case.
Doehrman Buba Ring Fights For Car Accident Victims – Contact Us Today
If you or someone you love has suffered broken bones in a car accident, it is important to seek legal representation from a trusted personal injury law firm. Doehrman Buba Ring is dedicated to fighting for the rights of car accident victims and helping them obtain the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
