Managing Partner
Last Updated: December 23, 2024
Broken bone injuries, or fractures, are common but can range widely in severity, causes, and required treatments. While many fractures heal with proper medical care, others may lead to long-term complications and significantly impact the victim’s quality of life. In some cases, victims may pursue legal actions to recover compensation, primarily when the injury resulted from another party’s negligence. This blog from Dell & Dean, PLLC, explores common types of bone fractures, their causes, treatment options, and legal recourse for affected individuals.
Understanding Common Types of Bone Fractures
Bone fractures can vary depending on the force and direction of impact, the bone involved, and the individual’s overall health. Some of the most frequently encountered types include:
- Simple (Closed) Fracture: A closed fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not pierce the skin. It is often less complicated to treat than open fractures, but it still requires medical attention to ensure the bone heals correctly.
- Compound (Open) Fracture: In a compound fracture, the bone breaks through the skin, posing a higher risk of infection due to exposure. Open fractures typically require immediate surgery to prevent infection and properly align the bones.
- Comminuted Fracture: This type occurs when the bone shatters into three or more pieces. It is often seen in high-impact accidents, like car crashes, and can require complex surgical interventions and longer healing times.
- Greenstick Fracture: Common in children due to their more flexible bones, a greenstick fracture is an incomplete break where the bone bends and cracks but does not separate completely.
- Transverse Fracture: This fracture occurs straight across the bone, usually resulting from a direct blow. It is often straightforward to treat but requires immobilization to ensure proper alignment.
- Oblique Fracture: This type of fracture has an angled pattern and occurs due to an indirect blow or twisting motion. If the bone fragments are unstable, surgery may be required.
- Stress Fracture: Often seen in athletes, stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that develop from repetitive force or overuse. Treatment typically includes rest and, in some cases, bracing to prevent further damage.
Causes of Broken Bones
Bone fractures can result from various incidents, some of which are avoidable while others may be accidental. Common causes include:
- Trauma from Accidents: High-impact accidents like car crashes, motorcycle collisions, and falls from heights are primary causes of severe bone fractures. In many of these cases, the force exerted on the body is so great that the bones cannot withstand it.
- Sports Injuries: Athletes are often susceptible to stress fractures and traumatic fractures due to the high physical demands of sports. Contact sports like football and hockey or activities like running and gymnastics pose higher risks.
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Falls are a significant cause of broken bones, particularly in older adults. Slip-and-fall accidents, whether on a wet floor or uneven pavement, can lead to fractures in the wrists, hips, and ankles.
- Workplace Accidents: In industries like construction and manufacturing, workers face daily risks of bone fractures due to falls, heavy machinery, and improper safety protocols.
Treatment Options for Bone Fractures
Treatment for fractures varies based on the type and severity of the injury but generally includes:
- Immobilization: Many fractures require immobilization with casts, splints, or braces to keep the bone in position as it heals. Depending on the bone and injury type, this process can last several weeks to months.
- Surgical Intervention: Severe fractures, such as compound or comminuted fractures, often need surgery to align and stabilize the bone. Surgeons may use metal rods, screws, or plates to secure the bone fragments.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is essential after immobilization or surgery to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Therapy can be a lengthy process, especially for complex fractures.
- Pain Management: Fractures are often accompanied by significant pain, which may require medications and lifestyle adjustments during recovery. Chronic pain can also occur in cases of improperly healed fractures, adding to the complexity of treatment.
Legal Actions for Compensation After a Bone Fracture
The injured party may have grounds for legal action when a bone fracture occurs due to another party’s negligence, such as in a car accident or slip-and-fall incident. Personal injury claims are often pursued to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Here’s how the legal process typically unfolds:
- Establishing Liability: To pursue compensation, the victim must demonstrate that the other party was at fault. This involves gathering evidence to prove negligence or wrongdoing, such as accident reports, witness statements, and medical records.
- Documenting Damages: For a successful claim, it’s essential to document all related expenses, including medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost income, and other financial impacts. In cases of severe injury, potential future expenses related to ongoing medical care may also be considered.
- Seeking Compensation for Pain and Suffering: In addition to financial losses, victims of severe fractures may experience long-term pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life. Compensation for these non-economic damages is often sought to acknowledge the broader impact of the injury.
- Legal Support and Advocacy: Bone fracture claims can be complex, particularly when insurance companies are involved. Working with an experienced personal injury attorney helps victims build a strong case, negotiate with insurers, and navigate the legal system.
Your New York Broken Bone Attorneys
Bone fractures vary widely in severity, cause, and required treatment, but they can all significantly affect the injured person. From medical interventions to extended recovery times, these injuries are often more than just a physical setback. For those who suffered a fracture due to someone else’s negligence, legal action can provide vital financial relief and accountability. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
