Illinois Broken Bones and Fractures Injury Attorneys
Accident Lawyers for Cases Involving Broken Bones
Have you or a loved one recently suffered a broken bone or fracture due to an accident? Attorney John J. Malm and his team have a strong track record of obtaining substantial settlements for clients who have suffered bone fractures due to car accidents, slip and falls, or work-related injuries. Our attorneys bring extensive experience in handling broken bone cases and have a dedicated focus on guiding clients through the complex healing process.
Broken Bone Statistics
According to a study published in The Lancet, there are approximately 178 million cases of broken bones globally each year, with the United States accounting for roughly 18.3 million of these cases (The Lancet). By the age of 65, an individual in the U.S. has a 50% chance of having experienced a broken bone, ranging from stress fractures to compound and multiple breaks (CDC).
Types of Bone Fractures
Broken bones, medically referred to as fractures, are some of the most common orthopedic injuries. The treatment approach depends on the type, angle, and severity of the fracture. The following are common types of fractures we encounter in our cases:
- Comminuted Fracture: The bone breaks or shatters into three or more pieces, indicating more than one fracture within the bone (Mayo Clinic).
- Compound Fracture: Also known as an “open” fracture, this injury occurs when the bone pierces through the skin, creating a significant risk of infection (Johns Hopkins Medicine).
- Oblique Fracture: This type of break occurs at an angle and often results in a displaced fracture, where the bone fragments are not aligned (NIH).
- Stress Fracture: A tiny crack in the bone, common in repetitive motion injuries, such as those experienced by factory workers (Mayo Clinic).
- Stable Fracture: Often referred to as a “clean break,” this fracture is characterized by the broken ends of the bone remaining aligned (Johns Hopkins Medicine).
- Transverse Fracture: The break runs horizontally across the bone and may or may not be displaced (NIH).
Many fractures require immobilization with a cast, but severe cases often necessitate surgery. Orthopedic surgeons may perform an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), where screws, plates, or metal rods are used to stabilize the bone. In some cases, this hardware is later removed, while in others, it becomes permanently integrated with the bone (Mayo Clinic).
Complications of Broken Bones
Victims of broken bone injuries may experience complications during the healing process or even years later. Early complications can include wound healing issues, infections, shock, pulmonary embolism, compartment syndrome, deep vein thrombosis, and surgical complications (CDC). Later complications might involve inflammation, secondary infections, arthritis, delayed union or nonunion (where the bone does not heal), avascular necrosis (death of the bone), reactions to internal fixation devices, and complex regional pain syndrome (NIH).
Future Care and Concerns
Patients with orthopedic injuries often face long-term challenges, including loss of mobility, chronic discomfort, and the development of arthritis. These potential future medical costs and related damages should be carefully evaluated before settlement (Johns Hopkins Medicine). If you have suffered a bone fracture or other orthopedic injury, it is crucial to consult an experienced attorney to evaluate your claim. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will understand the complexities of your injuries and pursue maximum compensation, including future care expenses.
Recent Settlements In Bone Fracture Cases
Car Accident, Injury to Minor, Bone Fractures, DuPage County, Illinois: A policy-limits settlement of $250,000 was reached on behalf of a minor who sustained multiple displaced fractures in her right arm. The injuries required an open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) of the right radius and ulnar bone, as well as a closed reduction internal fixation of the right distal radius. The minor was a passenger in a rear-end automobile accident, where evidence indicated that the driver of the car was at fault.
Slip and Fall, Broken Patella (Kneecap), 56-Year-Old Woman: A $286,000 settlement was reached for a woman who slipped and fell in a commercial establishment, resulting in a broken patella. The injury required surgical repair, including the installation of hardware. Following the surgery, she developed a severe infection, necessitating a second surgery to remove the hardware, during which the patella fractured again. The woman underwent daily hospital visits for six weeks to receive high doses of antibiotics throughout a long and difficult healing process.
Contact the Illinois Personal Injury Attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates
Wondering what your bone fracture case may be worth? If so, give us a call. You may be entitled to a substantial settlement if you have been injured. The knowledgeable lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates has successfully recovered millions in bone fracture cases for our clients. We are a top-rated personal injury law firm representing individuals and families who have suffered an injury or loss due to an accident. Call (630) 527-4177 (Naperville office) or (630) 524-2323 (St. Charles office) and speak with Attorney John J. Malm and his team today.