Even a car accident that happens at low speed can exert enough force to cause injury to occupants inside the vehicle. One of the most common types of personal injuries suffered in crashes is bone fracture injuries. Many victims who suffer fractures face surgeries, months of rehabilitation and therapy, and painful recoveries before they finally are fully healed. Unfortunately, there are also victims who never fully recover and are left with long-term or permanent health issues caused by the break.
At Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp, we have represented numerous clients who suffered fractures in car accidents caused by negligent drivers. Our Virginia accident attorneys understand just how painful bone fractures can be and how much these injuries can interfere with a victim’s quality of life, both during and after recovery. The following are the most common types of fractures that car accident victims suffer:
- Arms: The arm is made of three main bones. The humerus is the large bone in the upper arm. The radius and ulna are located in the lower arm. Arms are often fractured in car accidents because the victim will instinctively try to brace themselves with their arms immediately before impact.
- Collarbones: The collarbone, also called the clavicle, connects the shoulder blade and upper part of the breastbone. It is also one of the most vulnerable bones of the body. Recovery often includes surgery and healing usually takes up to 12 weeks.
- Knee and Lower Leg: The fibula and tibia are the large bones that can be found in the lower leg and are often injured in car accidents. There is minimum leg room in a passenger vehicle, leaving no protection to these bones in the event of the crushing or crumpling of the vehicle by the force of impact. Medical treatment usually includes multiple surgeries to repair fractures, but many victims are left with some type of permanent effect from the injury.
- Pelvis: Although pelvic fractures are more common in motorcycle accidents, they do occur in car crashes, too. In fact, approximately 15 percent of crashes that occur each year result in pelvic injury, and 25 percent of fatal crash victims also suffered broken pelvises. A severe break can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs, which can be life-threatening.
- Ribs: One of the most common injuries we see in many of our car accident victim clients are fractured ribs, usually caused by impact with an airbag or the steering wheel.
- Spine: Even the smallest fracture of the spine can result in paralysis, which is why it is critical to seek medical attention immediately following any type of crash. Depending on the severity of the injury, a victim may have issues with pain, walking, or being unable to move different parts of the body. Treatment may involve surgery and physical therapy.
Contact a Virginia Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you have suffered bone fractures in a car accident – or any other type of accident – caused by the negligence of another party, contact a skilled Virginia Beach car accident attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp to discuss what legal options you may have. We have successfully represented many clients in obtaining the financial compensation they deserved and will work diligently to get them the amount they deserve. Call our office today for a free and confidential case evaluation.
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