Car accidents can shatter lives in ways that go beyond visible damage to vehicles. While the immediate focus is often on the wreckage and the emotional aftermath, the human body bears the brunt of the impact in profound and life-altering ways. Fractures are common injuries that are sustained in car accidents that range from the seemingly minor to the critically severe. For those navigating a personal injury claim, understanding the types of fractures commonly sustained in a car accident is crucial. This knowledge not only aids in evaluating a case but also underscores the importance of comprehensive medical care and legal representation.
Typical Fractures Sustained in Car Accidents
There are many forces involved during a car accident. Each fracture type presents unique challenges for recovery and may influence the outcome of personal injury claims.
Here’s a closer look at the top 10 common fractures sustained during a car accident:
- Clavicle Fractures:
- Commonly known as the collarbone, it is often injured in collisions, especially if the seatbelt causes direct impact or if the person braces themselves against the steering wheel or dashboard. These fractures can cause significant pain and limit the range of motion in the shoulder, affecting work and daily activities.
- Rib Fractures:
- Rib fractures are frequent, particularly in the chest area, where the seatbelt and steering wheel can exert significant force in a car accident. These injuries can lead to severe pain and complications such as pneumothorax, where air leaks into the chest cavity.
- Spinal Fractures:
- A spinal fracture involves breaking one or more vertebrae (bone) in the spinal column. These are among the most concerning injuries sustained during a car accident, as severe fractures require surgery to realign the bones and require extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. Additionally, spinal fractures often accompany long-lasting nerve damage and paralysis.
- Pelvic Fractures:
- The pelvis can be fractured in severe collisions, especially if there is a direct impact or if the vehicle’s interior crushes the person. These fractures can affect mobility and require extensive treatment, including surgery and physical therapy. The impact on the quality of life can be significant.
- Femur Fractures:
- The thigh bone, or femur, is one of the strongest bones in the body but can still be fractured in high-impact accidents. These fractures typically require surgical intervention and extensive rehabilitation, which can be lengthy. Additionally, femur fractures often accompany damage to muscles, tendons, nerves, and vessels, affecting a patient’s long-term rehabilitation.
- Tibia and Fibula Fractures:
- The bones in the lower leg can be fractured from the impact of the collision or from being trapped under the dashboard or steering wheel. Treatment often includes immobilization, potential surgery, and physical therapy, with a recovery that can affect the ability to work and engage in daily activities.
- Humerus Fractures:
- The upper arm bone can be broken if the driver or passenger braces themselves during the crash or if the arm is caught in a way that causes it to snap. A broken humerus can make everyday tasks that involve movement difficult. Regaining function after a fracture requires physical therapy that helps with motion, lifting, and pain. The timing of physical therapy depends on the severity of the fracture and the type of surgery performed.
- Radius and Ulna Fractures:
- The forearm bones can fracture from the accident’s impact or from bracing oneself on the steering wheel or protecting oneself from the airbag. With severe fractures, the sharp edge of the bone may damage the radial or ulnar nerve in the lower arm, often associated with severe pain, numbness, and loss of function.
- Hand and Wrist Fractures:
- These can occur from bracing oneself against the steering wheel or airbag during the crash. Minor fractures may be treated with casts, while severe fractures can require surgery. Hand and wrist fractures often impact the mobility of the fingers, which can impact one’s quality of life or professional work.
- Facial Fractures:
- The force of the crash or hitting the dashboard or steering wheel can fracture facial bones, including the nasal bones, cheekbones, and jaw. These injuries affect physical appearance and can impair essential functions like eating and speaking. Addressing facial fractures often involves a combination of surgical and rehabilitative treatments.
The Path To Recovery:
Fractures in car accidents represent more than physical injuries-they are significant disruptions to a person’s life and well-being. While the physical recovery from fractures can be challenging, the legal journey can be just as demanding. Our experienced personal injury attorneys at the Ghuneim Law Firm understand these common fractures and their legal implications. Working with us ensures victims of bone fractures receive fair compensation for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Rest assured, with excellent medical care and our legal guidance, you can better navigate your personal injury claim and get the settlement you deserve.
Ghuneim Law Firm’s legal representation extends to the residents in the Pasadena-Houston metro area. Call us today at 833-GHU-NEIM or 281-487-8929 to schedule a free consultation.