New York Broken Bone Frequently Asked Questions

Every case and situation is different. However, if your injury arose from the negligence of another, it is important to speak with legal counsel. You could have a legal claim against the negligent party.

• The most common bones broken are the arm, ankle, foot and leg.
• The most common reason for a break is trauma to the area, osteoporosis and overuse.
• Depending on the severity of the injury, the healing process will take several weeks to several months.
• Without insurance, treatment could cost several thousand dollars. If surgery is necessary, orthopedic surgery can cost tens of thousands of dollars.

There really is no difference between the two. Doctors generally use the term fracture in their formal diagnosis. Keep in mind that there are many different kinds of fractures.

There are actually many different types of broken bones. The most common, however, are:

• Open-These are also called compound fractures and occur when the bone pierces the skin;
• Closed-These are also called simple fractures and the skin is not affected;
• Displaced-This occurs where the bone is broken as well as being out of its normal position; and
• Greenstick/Hairline-This occurs where part of the bone cracks but it is not completely broken. This is often seen with children whose bones are more flexible.
• Comminuted fracture-Bone shatters into 3 or more pieces.
• Avulsion-A piece of bone breaks off but remains inside the body, often near a joint.
• Stable-Where the ends of the break line up.

Immobilization: The doctors will have to set the bone do it can mend back together. In the interim, the bone is immobilized so it can heal correctly. This is usually accomplished by a cast or a brace.

Traction: If immobilization is not sufficient, doctors may use traction with weights and other devices to align the bones and keep them stable while they heal.

Surgery: Serious breaks may leave bone fragments or chips behind which can be dangerous. The doctors may use steel rods or screws to manually bind the bones together while they heal.

If you are successful with your claim, you can recover compensation for medical expenses (present and future), lost wages (past, present and future), pain and suffering and property damage.

• Automobile accidents;
• Bicycle accidents;
• Motorcycle accidents;
• Pedestrian accidents;
• Work-related accidents;
• Slip and falls; and
• Defective products.

If there has been a severe break, complication can arise. This can include nerve damage, bone fragments in the bloodstream and infections in the bone to name a few. Also depending on the break and how it heals, there could be loss of function or mobility of the broken limb.

Personal injury claims are based on the legal concept of negligence. To show someone is negligent, it must be proven that the person owed you a duty of care. This duty was somehow breached. This breach of duty caused your injury, and that you have incurred damages or losses as a result.

Investigating a legal claim can be complicated. Contacting an experienced New York personal injury lawyer will help to ensure that the process is carried out properly, protects your interests, and maximizes your potential for recovery.