Broken bones are a common injury after a car accident, as the impact of the collision can cause severe force to be applied to the body. This can result in bones fractured or broken, which can be extremely painful and will require medical treatment. In Virginia alone, over 960 deaths and thousands of injuries were recorded in 2021, underscoring the dangers of auto collisions and the likelihood of suffering broken bones and other injuries.
Types of broken bones from collisions
Several types of broken bones can occur after a car accident, including:
Simple fractures
These are the most common type of fractures and involve a break in the bone, but the bone does not break through the skin.
Compound fractures
These fractures involve a break in the bone that extends through the skin, which can lead to an increased risk of infection.
Comminuted fractures
These fractures involve the bone being broken into multiple pieces.
Greenstick fractures
Greenstick fractures occur when the bone is partially broken, with one side remaining intact.
Spiral fractures
Spiral fractures are a break in the bone that spirals around the bone.
Treatment for broken bones
Broken bones can occur in any part of the body, but some common areas for fractures after a car accident include the arms, legs and ribs. Specifically, vertebrae, the clavicle and the pelvic bone are among those broken most often in car crashes.
Treating broken bones often involves setting the bone back in place and using a cast or other device to keep it in place while it heals. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the bone or install a pin to help the tissue heal correctly.
Recovery from a broken bone can take several weeks or even months, depending on the severity of the injury. Physical therapy is often necessary to help regain strength and mobility in the affected area.
Get help for your broken bone after a collision
It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a car accident to ensure that any broken bones are appropriately treated. Ignoring a broken bone or delaying treatment can lead to severe complications and a lengthier recovery. Taking the proper action after a car accident can ensure your bones heal correctly and that you receive the care and compensation you need.