Broken Bones

Houston Broken Bones Injury Lawyer

Broken bones, medically referred to as fractures, occur when excessive force is applied to a bone, overwhelming its ability to resist the impact. Fractures can result from various accidents, often involving unexpected trauma or force. Understanding the common causes of broken bone injuries can help victims realize their options and seek the necessary compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering. Contact Baumgartner Law Firm for a FREE consultation on any broken bones accident caused by another. Call today (281) 587-1111.

Frequent Accidents Leading to Broken Bones

Various types of accidents can cause bone fractures, and while some may be more common, each scenario presents its unique challenges for victims. These accidents frequently lead to broken bones in Houston:

• Motorcycle Accidents– Motorcycle Riders are particularly vulnerable to severe fractures, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs, due to the lack of protection.
• Car Accidents– The sheer force of a collision can easily break bones, including the spine, neck, and pelvis.
• Truck Accidents– The immense size and weight of commercial trucks result in severe damage in accidents, often leading to fractures in multiple areas of the body.
• Slip and Fall Accidents– A simple fall can break bones in the wrists, hips, and ankles, particularly among older adults.
• Bicycle Accidents– Cyclists hit by vehicles frequently suffer broken arms, legs, and sometimes severe skull fractures.
• Pedestrian Accidents– Pedestrians struck by cars may endure extensive fractures in the legs, pelvis, and ribs due to the impact.
• Workplace Accidents– Construction sites and industrial jobs often expose workers to risks of falling objects, equipment malfunctions, or hazardous conditions, all of which can cause broken bones.
• Child-related Accidents– Children are naturally at risk for fractures due to daycare accidents, sports injuries, or falls.

These types of injuries vary in severity, with some leading to simple breaks while others result in complex fractures requiring surgery and long recovery periods.

Medical Treatment and Recovery for Broken Bones

The treatment for broken bones varies depending on the severity and location of the fracture. Initial treatment often involves immobilizing the bone to prevent further injury, followed by imaging tests such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the extent of the damage. Common treatments include:

• Casting and Splinting- For simple fractures, a cast or splint is used to immobilize the bone while it heals.
• Surgery– More complex fractures, such as compound or comminuted breaks, may require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bone. Metal plates, screws, or rods are often used to keep the bone in place during the healing process.
• Physical Therapy– After the bone heals, physical therapy is often necessary to regain strength, flexibility, and full range of motion in the affected area.

Recovery times vary based on the individual and the type of fracture. Simple breaks may heal within six to eight weeks, while complex fractures may require several months of recovery and rehabilitation. During this time, many victims are unable to work, leading to financial strain in addition to physical pain.

Broken Bone Injury Statistics

Each year, the United States sees an overwhelming number of fractures, with approximately 6.8 million broken bones reported. These statistics shed light on just how common these injuries are:

• Gender Differences– Men are more likely to suffer from broken bones than women; however, after the age of 45, women become more prone to fractures.
• Age-Related Risks– After age 65, women are three times as likely as men to experience a bone fracture, particularly in the hip.
• Common Fractures by Age– Before age 75, broken wrists are the most frequent fractures. After age 75, the hip bone becomes the most vulnerable, especially in slip-and-fall accidents.
• Average Lifetime Breaks– The typical person will experience at least two broken bones.
• Strongest Bone in the Body– The femur, the thigh bone, is the longest and strongest bone, often requiring extreme force to break.

These numbers highlight the prevalence of fractures and the significant toll they take on individuals, especially as they age.

Medical Costs and Financial Strain of Broken Bones

A broken bone can not only leave a victim in physical pain but also burden them with significant medical expenses. The cost of medical treatment for fractures varies greatly depending on the severity and location of the break, but hospital stays alone can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars.

• Medical Bills– The financial burden can be catastrophic for those without adequate healthcare coverage. Setting a bone, undergoing surgery, and staying in the hospital is expensive, with costs often accumulating before factoring in follow-up care like physical therapy.
• Rehabilitation Expenses– Victims may require ongoing physical therapy to regain strength and mobility after a fracture. This care adds to the overall costs of recovery.
• Lost Wages- Time off work due to the injury further complicates the financial situation, with many individuals unable to earn their regular income while recovering.

Given these expenses, it is crucial to consult a qualified Houston personal injury lawyer to help secure compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and other financial hardships.