Broken Bones Lawyers in Salt Lake City, UT
Broken Bones - Common Injuries
Broken bones are one of the most common types of injuries that a person can suffer from in an accident. These injuries can range from a mild fracture that may heal on its own to a complete break that requires immediate medical attention and is at a higher risk for infection. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, severe bone fractures — such as communited fractures where the bone has shattered into several small pieces, or breaks where the bone has pierced the skin — may require surgery to bring the bone back together and stabilize it while it heals.
The more severe the accident, the higher the chances are that the victim(s) will suffer broken bones and the breaks will be more critical and require intensive medical treatment.
Accidents That Can Cause Broken Bones
Almost any type of accident can result in one or more broken bones, including but not limited to:
- Car Accidents
- Truck Accidents
- Slips & Falls
- Work Related Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents
- Motorcycle Accidents
Even minor accidents where no life threatening injuries occur can cause broken bones, leaving victims with high medical costs, severe and potentially chronic pain, and the possibility of temporary or even permanent disability.
Types of Bone Fractures
There are four different types of bone fractures, all of which can occur as the result of trauma caused by an accident.
Stable Fracture
A stable fracture is the least severe type of broken bone and can be easily treated by placing the affected limb in a cast. This type of break occurs when there is a fracture, but the ends of the bone remain lined up with each other. Over the period of just a few weeks, the bone will begin to grow new blood vessels and bone cells at the site of the break, thus healing the injury.
Oblique Fracture
An oblique fracture occurs when the break is at an angle.
Transverse Fracture
This type of fracture occurs when the break is horizontal.
Comminuted Fracture
This is potentially the most severe type of broken bone and it occurs frequently in auto accidents and other severe accidents, where bones are crushed and broken into at least three small pieces inside the body. Often, this type of fracture requires surgery to put the pieces of bone back together and to stabilize the limb while the bones heal.
Symptoms of a Broken Bone
While some breaks are easy to spot, especially those that are open, other fractures may seem minor and may not immediately present with symptoms. The most common symptoms of a broken bone include:
- Pain at the break site
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Changes in mobility or the inability to move a limb
- Tingling or numbness at the break site
If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident of any kind and you suspect that a broken bone may be involved, it's critical to get medical treatment as soon as possible. This is particularly true if the break is severe and there is bone protruding from the skin or the limb is visibly misshapen.
When to Contact a Utah Personal Injury Attorney
Victims of accidents have the right to explore the legal option of bringing a case forward for compensation if the accident was caused by the negligence or carelessness of another individual or entity. The at-fault party may be able to be held legally responsible for the victim's injuries, and financial compensation can be sought for medical bills, lost wages, disability, and pain and suffering.
Bottom Line: If you believe you have an injury due to accidents that have resulted in broken bones and other severe injuries you should contact an attorney to help you pursue the full and fair compensation you deserve for your injuries.
George Tait Law and its lawyers are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions about your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well. George Tait Law and its attorneys are licensed to practice law only in the State of Utah and maintain offices in Salt Lake City, Utah. No attorney client relationship is established by simply visiting this website.