Even a truck accident at low speed can exert enough force to cause serious 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 are finally 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 truck accidents caused by negligent drivers. Our Virginia Beach truck accident lawyers 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. We will work diligently to ensure you get the financial compensation you may be entitled to.
What Are the Most Common Types of Fractures Suffered in Truck Accidents?
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 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 suffer 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 is 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.
What Type of Compensation Can Truck Accident Victims Pursue?
If you have suffered broken bone injuries in a truck accident, you may be entitled to substantial compensation due to the severity of the injuries and the impact they have on your life. Given the size and weight of commercial trucks, these accidents often cause serious fractures that require extensive medical treatment, long recovery periods, and, in some cases, permanent impairment. The compensation you may receive depends on several factors, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses are one of the primary components of compensation in a truck accident claim. This includes not only the cost of immediate emergency care but also hospitalization, surgeries, and any follow-up treatments required to properly heal the broken bone. Some fractures, particularly those involving the spine, pelvis, or multiple breaks in a limb, may require extensive surgical intervention, the insertion of metal plates or screws, and long-term physical therapy.
If complications arise, such as infections or improper healing, additional medical procedures may be necessary, adding to the financial burden. Future medical costs can also be considered in cases where ongoing care is required.
Loss of Income
Lost wages are another major factor in determining compensation. Broken bones often leave victims unable to work for weeks or months, depending on the severity of the injury and the physical demands of their job. If the injury results in a permanent disability that prevents a person from returning to their previous line of work, they may also be entitled to compensation for lost future earnings. The financial impact of missing work can be devastating, making this a critical component of any claim.
Pain and Suffering
Beyond financial losses, compensation also accounts for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the injury. Severe fractures can cause immense pain, both during the initial injury and throughout the healing process. Chronic pain or loss of mobility can reduce a person’s ability to engage in activities they once enjoyed, leading to emotional distress and a diminished quality of life. If the truck driver or trucking company acted with reckless disregard for safety, punitive damages may also be awarded as a means of punishing their misconduct and preventing similar accidents in the future.
Contact Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp for Help
If you have been injured in an accident caused by another party or parties, contact a Virginia Beach truck accident lawyer from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp for a free and confidential consultation.
Our firm has successfully represented many accident victims, and we understand how frightening these injuries can be for families, not only dealing with the uncertainty of your loved one’s health but also the financial worry about how you will be able to take care of their medical and personal needs. We are available to meet and discuss the circumstances of your case and advise you on what your legal options are and how we can help.