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Broken Bones from Car Accident
Car accidents are a leading cause of serious injuries in Chicago, and broken bones are among the most common types of trauma sustained in these crashes. Whether you are driving on Lake Shore Drive, navigating city streets, or traveling on I-90, a collision can happen in an instant and change your life. If you or a loved one has suffered a broken bone in a car accident, understanding your legal rights and the recovery process is crucial. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, our car accident lawyers guide clients through every step, helping them seek the compensation they deserve for their injuries.
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The Reality of Broken Bones After Car Accidents
Broken bones, also known as fractures, occur when an external force is stronger than the bone’s ability to withstand it. Car accidents create powerful and unpredictable forces, causing everything from simple cracks in the bone to complex shattering injuries. Some of the most frequently broken bones in car crashes include arms, legs, ribs, collarbones, and pelvis.
Why are these injuries so common? Vehicle collisions can throw occupants forward or sideways, slam their bodies against the steering wheel, dashboard, or door, and even cause ejection from the vehicle. Airbags and seatbelts save lives, but they cannot always prevent bone fractures when the impact is severe.
The severity of a broken bone varies. Some fractures are minor, requiring only a cast and rest, while others need extensive surgery, hardware implantation, and months of physical therapy. Compound fractures, where the bone pierces the skin, carry a heightened risk of infection and complications. Multiple fractures can make the recovery process even more challenging, affecting your ability to work and enjoy daily life.
Recognizing the Symptoms and Getting the Right Treatment
After a car accident, the adrenaline rush can mask pain and injuries. It’s not uncommon for accident victims to overlook or underestimate a broken bone. However, being able to recognize the signs is essential for timely treatment. Classic symptoms include severe pain at the site of injury, swelling, bruising, visible deformity, and difficulty moving the affected limb or body part.
If you suspect a broken bone, seek medical attention immediately, even if you think the injury is minor. Doctors will typically use X-rays or other imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the fracture. Treatment will depend on the type and location of the fracture. Options may include immobilization with a cast or splint, traction, or surgical intervention for more complex breaks.
Prompt treatment is vital, not just for your health but also for building a solid legal case. Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment are key pieces of evidence when pursuing compensation. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the best outcome for your recovery and your claim.
The Impact of Broken Bones on Your Daily Life
A broken bone may seem like a straightforward injury, but its effects can reach far beyond the initial pain and inconvenience. Most broken bones take weeks or even months to heal, and some require ongoing therapy or rehabilitation. This can disrupt your ability to work, take care of your family, or participate in activities you enjoy.
Imagine being unable to walk or use your dominant arm for weeks. Everyday tasks like driving, cooking, or typing can become impossible. Parents may find it challenging to care for young children. Workers may lose income if their job involves manual labor or tasks that require mobility.
In severe cases, broken bones can lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain, arthritis, decreased range of motion, or permanent disability. Scarring and disfigurement are also possible, especially with compound fractures that require surgery. The emotional toll can be significant, resulting in anxiety, depression, or frustration during the recovery process.
If your broken bone was caused by someone else’s negligence on the road, you should not have to shoulder these burdens alone. Seeking legal guidance can help you pursue compensation for lost wages, medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages related to your injury.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Broken Bones in Chicago
Car accident victims in Illinois have the right to seek financial compensation if another party’s negligence led to their injuries. Broken bones may entitle you to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgery, medication, and physical therapy
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Out-of-pocket costs associated with your injury
To build a strong case, you must demonstrate that another driver’s careless or reckless actions caused the accident and your resulting injury. This process involves collecting evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and accident scene photos. It’s also important to document how your injury has impacted your day-to-day life, including your ability to work and care for your family.
Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means your compensation may be reduced if you are found partially at fault for the accident. However, you can still recover damages as long as you are less than 51 percent responsible for the crash.
The top-rated personal injury lawyers at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is dedicated to handling the legal complexities while you focus on healing. We negotiate aggressively with insurance companies and, when necessary, litigate in court to help you secure a fair outcome.
What to Do After Suffering a Broken Bone in a Chicago Car Accident
If you or a loved one has suffered a fracture in a car accident, taking the right steps can protect your health and your legal rights. Here are a few key actions to take:
- Get medical attention immediately. Don’t try to “walk it off” or wait to see if the pain subsides. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for proper healing.
- Document everything. Take photos of your injuries, keep all medical records, and write down how the injury affects your life.
- Report the accident. File a police report and notify your insurance company. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
- Consult with an attorney. An experienced personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, explain your rights, and handle communication with insurance adjusters.
- Don’t rush to accept a settlement. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than your case is worth. Consulting with an attorney can help you understand the full value of your claim.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate this process alone. A legal advocate can make a significant difference in helping you move forward after a serious car accident injury.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Broken Bones from Car Accidents
How long do I have to file a claim for a broken bone after a car accident in Illinois?
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit for a broken bone. However, certain circumstances can affect this deadline, so it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible.
Can I pursue compensation if I had a pre-existing condition that was aggravated by the accident?
Yes, you can still pursue compensation if a car accident aggravated a pre-existing condition or old injury. The key is to prove that the crash worsened your condition beyond its previous state.
What types of evidence can help my case after suffering a broken bone in a car accident?
Helpful evidence includes medical records, X-rays, accident scene photos, witness statements, police reports, and documentation of your recovery process. These pieces of evidence help show the extent of your injuries and how the accident occurred.
Will my case go to court if I hire a lawyer for my broken bone injury?
Most personal injury cases settle out of court through negotiations with the insurance company. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking your case to trial to seek the compensation you deserve.
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