Posted on Tuesday, May 7th, 2024 at 6:43 pm
Have you ever imagined that a simple drive could change your life in an instant? If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced just that: a car accident that left you dealing with broken bones and fractures. This sudden injury can feel devastating, as worries about recovery, medical costs, and the impact on your daily life often accompany the physical pain.
Here at The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs, we understand the challenges you’re facing and want to provide a guide to essential information on more common bone injuries and understanding your legal rights.
Common Broken Bones from Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a range of injuries, but some of the most common are fractures to the femur, hip, and wrist. Understanding these injuries can help you anticipate the care you might need and the implications for your recovery and legal case.
Femur Fractures
The femur, or thigh bone, is the longest and strongest bone in the body, but it’s not immune to the high force of a car accident. A broken femur is a serious injury often caused by direct impact to the thigh region during a collision. Symptoms can include
- Severe pain
- Swelling and bruising
- An inability to stand or move the broken leg.
Treatment typically involves surgery—often the placement of rods or pins—and a lengthy recovery period that includes physical therapy.
Hip Fractures
Hip fractures are particularly common among older car accident victims. These injuries are concerning because they impair mobility and can lead to complications, especially in older adults. A hip fracture in a car accident usually results from a side impact or a direct blow to the hip area. Treatment generally requires surgery to either replace or repair the hip, followed by physical therapy. Recovery time varies, but it is crucial to follow medical advice closely to regain as much mobility as possible.
Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures often occur when victims brace for impact with their hands. The sudden force can cause any of the many small bones in the wrist to break, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Treatment plans include casting, splinting, and possibly surgery if the break is severe. Physical therapy is also commonly required to restore function and strength to the wrist.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous and likely to result in severe injuries. The direct impact and speed of these accidents mean that the forces exerted on the body are massive, leading to more complex and severe fractures. Injuries from head-on collisions often require surgical intervention and a long-term recovery process, impacting victims’ ability to work and perform daily activities.
When Surgery and Physical Therapy Are Needed
Not all fractures require surgery, but many severe cases do, especially when the bone is displaced or the joint is involved. Surgery might include the use of metal screws, plates, or rods to hold the bone fragments together while they heal. After surgery, physical therapy plays a critical role in recovery. A physical therapist can help restore movement, strengthen the surrounding muscles, and decrease pain levels, which are crucial for a return to normal life.
Your Recovery and Legal Rights
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, especially when it involves serious injuries like broken bones, can be daunting. It’s not just the physical recovery that you have to think about, but also how you will manage financially during this period. Medical bills, lost wages, and other costs can pile up quickly.
Remember, you don’t have to fight this alone. Comprehensive legal and medical help is available, and it’s okay to seek support when you need it most. Reaching out to a professional can help ease the burden of the aftermath of a car accident, allowing you to focus more fully on your recovery.
Since 1952, the team at The Law Offices of Briggs & Briggs has been helping the people of Washington by representing injured victims and their families with dedication and compassion. If you’ve suffered broken bones or other injuries in a car accident, don’t wait. Reach out now, and let us help you tackle this trying time with confidence and care. Call us at (253) 588-6696 or contact us online to schedule your no-obligation consultation with our Washington car accident lawyers. Let’s make this right together.
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