A broken bone may seem like a straightforward injury. However, anyone who has suffered one knows the reality is much more complex. Broken bones, or fractures, can range from minor hairline cracks to devastating compound fractures that require surgery and rehabilitation. These injuries are not only painful but also disruptive.
Some fractures can heal relatively quickly. Others leave lasting complications that affect a victim’s mobility, earning capacity, and quality of life. In this article, you will learn the fundamentals of broken bones, so you can pursue fair compensation under Louisiana law.
Common Ways Broken Bones Occur
Fractures can happen in countless ways, but certain scenarios consistently lead to broken bone personal injury cases in Louisiana:
- Car Accidents – The force of a collision often causes fractures. This is particularly true for arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Seat belts and airbags save lives but can also contribute to broken bones during impact.
- Truck Accidents – Because of the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving them frequently lead to catastrophic fractures requiring surgical repair.
- Motorcycle and Bicycle Accidents – Riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. This makes broken bones especially common in these types of crashes.
- Slip and Fall Accidents – Falls from wet floors, broken stairs, or uneven surfaces can cause wrist, ankle, or hip fractures. These are especially dangerous for elderly victims.
- Workplace Accidents – Construction sites, factories, and other labor-intensive environments often involve risks of falls, equipment accidents, or being struck by heavy objects.
- Sports and Recreational Activities – High-impact activities, whether organized sports or informal recreation, frequently lead to broken bones.
In each of these cases, liability often arises from another party’s negligence. This can consist of someone else’s careless driving, property owner neglect, or an employer’s failure to maintain safe working conditions.
Why Broken Bones Are Important in Personal Injury Cases
Fractures are more than just painful injuries. They play an important role in personal injury cases for several reasons.
Some important factors to consider include:
- Objective medical evidence – Unlike some injuries that may be invisible or difficult to prove (like soft tissue injuries), broken bones can be documented clearly. You can prove your injuries through X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. This makes them compelling in the courtroom.
- Economic damages – Broken bones often lead to missed work, significant medical bills, and long recovery times. These financial and practical consequences make them a strong basis for damage claims.
- Potential for long-term complications – Some fractures result in chronic pain, limited range of motion, arthritis, or permanent disability. These future complications increase the overall value of a claim.
- Impact on daily life – Even a “simple” fracture can prevent victims from performing basic tasks. Things like driving or caring for family members can feel overwhelming. These are important factors to consider when calculating non-economic damages.
Because of these factors, Louisiana courts and insurance companies often treat broken bone claims as serious, high-value cases, especially when negligence is clear.
Types of Broken Bones That May Require Surgery or Rehabilitation
Not all fractures are created equal. Some heal with a simple cast. Others demand intensive treatment. The type of fracture often determines the extent of damages and compensation.
- Simple fractures – A clean break that may heal with immobilization. These typically require shorter recovery times.
- Compound fractures – The bone pierces the skin. This increases the risk of infection and often requires surgical intervention.
- Comminuted fractures – The bone shatters into several pieces. This usually requires surgical reconstruction with plates, screws, or rods.
- Spiral or oblique fractures – Caused by twisting forces. These can be difficult to stabilize and may need surgery.
- Stress fractures – Small cracks in the bone that may not be immediately obvious, but can worsen without treatment.
- Growth plate fractures – Occurring in children, these injuries can affect bone development and may require ongoing monitoring and treatment.
Surgery often involves orthopedic procedures such as internal fixation, where hardware is used to stabilize the bone. After surgery, victims usually face long-term rehabilitation, including physical therapy to restore strength, mobility, and function. In severe cases, complications such as nerve damage, blood clots, or arthritis may develop. These factors can increase a victim’s damages and the complexity of the case.
How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Broken bone cases may seem straightforward, but insurance companies often work to minimize payouts. They may argue that your fracture is less severe than claimed, that you are exaggerating your pain, or that your fracture was pre-existing.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can counter these tactics by:
- Gathering evidence to build a strong case.
- Consulting expert witnesses to explain complicated factors.
- Negotiating with insurers aggressively.
- Litigating in Court if needed.
- Navigating the unique features of Louisiana law.
When you are facing recovery after a broken bone, it is essential to have the help of a trusted legal advisor.
Contact Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers Today
Broken bones are far more than temporary injuries. They disrupt lives, careers, and families for months or even years. At Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping fracture victims secure the compensation they deserve. We work tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.
If you or a loved one has suffered a broken bone in Louisiana due to someone else’s negligence, don’t face this problem alone. Contact us today for a free consultation by calling (504) 323-6000. We will explain your legal options and help you pursue the justice and compensation you need to move forward.