Broken bones can result in significant pain, a limited range of motion, and a small fortune in medical bills. Even minor breaks require weeks to heal, potentially leaving you unable to perform daily tasks. Some may even mean going through surgery.
If you have sustained a broken bone because of someone else’s negligence in Florida, it’s essential to understand what that could mean for your everyday life and whether you have legal recourse. Learn more about broken bones and why hiring an attorney is vital if you pursue a personal injury claim in Tampa.
Understanding Different Types of Fractures
Any bone in your body can break if it experiences enough force. These injuries can happen at any age, but people over 50 or those with osteoporosis are more likely to suffer fractures. How a bone breaks often affects how it is treated and how long it takes to heal.
Doctors classify fractures by shape, pattern, and location. Straight-line breaks are called transverse, oblique, or longitudinal fractures.
Other types of breaks do not follow a straight line, including:
- Comminuted fractures
- Greenstick fractures
- Spiral fractures
- Segmental fractures
Your healthcare provider will determine the type of fracture and whether it is open or closed. Open fractures break through the skin, which can lead to complications and a longer recovery. Closed fractures keep the skin intact.
Healthcare providers may also describe fractures as displaced or non-displaced. Displaced fractures occur when the bone pieces have moved apart and may require surgery. Non-displaced fractures mean the bone pieces stay close together, which can make recovery easier.
Common Causes of Bone Fractures
Most fractures happen because of trauma. Car accidents, falls, and sports injuries are common causes. Workplace accidents, such as being struck by heavy machinery or having a limb trapped, can also result in serious breaks.
Fractures can also develop from repeated stress. Stress fractures happen when the same motion is repeated over time, such as running or performing repetitive tasks at work. Over time, this pressure can weaken the bone and cause it to crack.
Even minor fractures can have a big impact on your daily life. Getting prompt medical care and following your doctor’s treatment plan is essential to avoid long-term complications.
Preventing Bone Fractures and Protecting Your Legal Rights
While not all fractures can be avoided, taking safety precautions can reduce your risk and strengthen your case if an accident occurs. Following workplace safety rules, wearing protective gear, and maintaining a safe environment can show that you took reasonable steps to prevent injury.
If a fracture happens despite these precautions, documenting the circumstances is important. Keeping records of unsafe conditions, equipment malfunctions, or negligent behavior can be crucial evidence in a personal injury claim. Taking these steps can help protect your right to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Legal Options After Bone Fractures
If someone else caused your fracture, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. You must show that another party’s actions directly led to your injury to recover medical expenses, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
In motor vehicle accidents, Florida is a no-fault state for cars, except for motorcycles. You may first need to file a claim with your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance. If your losses exceed what PIP covers, you can pursue a claim against the responsible party.
If you were partially at fault, Florida’s modified comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages as long as you were not mostly to blame. Gathering evidence to show you were not at fault can be challenging, which is why hiring an attorney is often essential.
Workplace fractures are handled differently. Most Florida employers carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical bills and lost wages. You will not be able to recover pain and suffering unless a third party contributed to the accident, such as a subcontractor or equipment manufacturer.
Contact the Tampa Personal Injury Attorneys at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
A broken bone can impact your life in many ways, especially if that break is severe. If you were hurt in an accident that someone else’s conduct caused, it’s crucial that you hire an attorney to represent you. A lawyer can advocate for you every step of the way to help you get the compensation you need to move forward.
At Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers, our top-rated team has over 15 years of experience defending the rights of the injured in Florida. We know what evidence can make the most difference and how to negotiate aggressively with insurers. Contact our Tampa personal injury lawyers today at (813) 800-0810 to schedule a free consultation.
