Hangman Fracture Injury Lawyers

Trusted Illinois Accident Attorneys for Victims of Neck Fractures

When a person suffers a neck injury in a traumatic event, one of the most serious diagnoses they can face is a fracture of the C2 vertebra, commonly known as a “hangman’s fracture.” Though its name stems from a grim historical context, a hangman’s fracture remains a very real and serious injury in modern trauma cases. At John J. Malm & Associates, our team of experienced Illinois personal injury lawyers has successfully represented clients who have endured this type of catastrophic injury and fought to recover the compensation they deserve.

What is a Hangman’s Fracture?

A hangman’s fracture is a break in the second cervical vertebra (C2), located at the top of the spinal column just beneath the skull. This vertebra, also known as the axis, plays a crucial role in supporting the skull and enabling head rotation. The fracture typically occurs through the pedicles or pars interarticularis of the C2 vertebra.

These injuries are particularly serious because of the proximity to the spinal cord. If the spinal cord is damaged or compressed, the victim can suffer partial or complete paralysis, and in some cases, death. Even with immediate medical treatment, the effects of a C2 fracture can be long-lasting, requiring surgery, spinal instrumentation, and extensive rehabilitation.

According to the Mayo Clinic, such fractures can be difficult to stabilize without surgical fusion, and often require multidisciplinary treatment to manage neurological risk and recovery.

How Do Hangman’s Fractures Happen?

Mechanically, a hangman’s fracture results from hyperextension and axial loading—a violent backward thrust of the head coupled with vertical force. This often occurs during high-speed impacts. A car accident, bicycle accident, motorcycle collision, fall from height, or other high-energy trauma can create the necessary mechanical forces to fracture the C2 vertebra. When the head is suddenly forced backward and downward, the spine cannot absorb the pressure, resulting in a break at the base of the skull.

These types of injuries are commonly seen in:

• High-speed rear-end or frontal car crashes
• Motorcycle ejections
• Cyclist impacts with stationary objects or vehicles
• Pedestrian knockdowns
• Falls from stairs, ladders, or uneven surfaces

Johns Hopkins Medicine emphasizes that these fractures often result from high-velocity trauma, and surgical stabilization is generally required to prevent spinal instability and neurological compromise.

Common Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Hangman’s Fracture

Hangman’s fractures may initially be mistaken for other neck or shoulder injuries, especially if the victim remains conscious and mobile. However, early symptoms may include:

• Severe neck pain
• Limited or painful range of motion
• Muscle weakness in the arms or legs
• Numbness or tingling in extremities
• Loss of balance or coordination

Diagnosis typically involves advanced imaging, including CT scans and MRIs, which provide detailed views of spinal alignment and the extent of any compression or displacement.

Treatment Options for Hangman’s Fractures

Treatment for a hangman’s fracture depends on the severity of the break. Stable fractures may be managed non-surgically with a cervical collar or halo brace. Unstable fractures, however, often require spinal fusion surgery and posterior instrumentation to stabilize the neck and prevent further injury.

Rehabilitation may involve months of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management. Even after recovery, many patients experience reduced mobility, chronic pain, and psychological effects such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or depression.

Boston Medical Center notes that patients who undergo cervical spine surgery for unstable hangman’s fractures typically face a prolonged rehabilitation process and must be closely monitored for neurologic deterioration.

Real Case Results by John J. Malm & Associates

At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the devastating effects a hangman’s fracture can have on a person’s life. Our firm has a proven track record of obtaining justice for clients who have suffered C2 fractures in serious accidents:

$1.35 Million Settlement – Car Accident in Lisle, Illinois
Our client was struck by a driver making a left turn at a signalized intersection, causing a partially head-on T-bone collision. She suffered a hangman’s fracture that required multi-level cervical fusion and nine days of hospitalization. Despite a good recovery, she experienced lasting limited mobility and a prominent neck scar. The settlement reflected both the physical and emotional impact of the injury.

$826,000 Settlement – Bicycle Accident Involving Cervical Spine Trauma
In another recent case, our attorneys represented a client who sustained a C2 vertebral fracture in a car vs. bicycle crash. After undergoing cervical stabilization surgery and physical rehabilitation, the client faced ongoing pain and functional restrictions. Our firm fought to ensure that every element of the claim was addressed—including future care costs, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent impairment.

These results reflect our commitment to advocating for clients with catastrophic spinal injuries. We work closely with orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, physical therapists, and vocational experts to build strong cases that accurately value long-term harm.

Legal Support for Hangman’s Fracture Victims in Illinois

Illinois law allows injured individuals to recover damages when their injuries are caused by another party’s negligence. In hangman’s fracture cases, the stakes are often high due to the severity of the injury. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
• Surgical intervention and spinal fusion
• Rehabilitative therapy and assistive devices
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Physical disfigurement and permanent impairment
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress

It is critical to consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who understands the complexities of spinal trauma and the litigation necessary to secure fair compensation.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for your Hangman’s Fracture Accident Case?

With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, our award-winning team of attorneys brings over 90 years of combined legal experience to complex personal injury matters. We are proud of the results we have achieved for clients suffering from catastrophic injuries, including spinal fractures and neck trauma.

Our clients receive personalized attention, access to top medical experts, and relentless legal advocacy from start to finish. We handle every aspect of your case, from insurance claims and settlement negotiations to litigation and trial if necessary. There is no fee unless we recover compensation for you.

“Hangman’s fractures are among the most complex and life-altering injuries we see,” says Naperville car accident attorney John J. Malm. “Our clients not only face immense physical pain and surgical recovery, but also emotional trauma and financial stress. We are committed to standing by them with the legal and medical support they need to rebuild their lives.”

Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Hangman’s Fracture Injury Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates

If you or a loved one has suffered a hangman’s fracture or other spinal injury in an accident, we invite you to speak with one of our experienced Illinois injury attorneys. Call John J. Malm & Associates at (630) 527-4177 or visit our website to schedule your free consultation. Experience You Can Count On. Justice You Deserve.