Broken Bones and Fractures After a Cleveland Car Crash: Can I Sue? 

Car accidents often result in broken bones, one of the most common types of injuries. Understanding your legal options is crucial for securing the compensation needed for recovery.

If you or a loved one has suffered a bone fracture in a Cleveland crash, you may be wondering about your next steps. Consulting with a qualified Cleveland attorney can help determine if you have a valid case.

At Friedman, Domiano & Smith, our Cleveland car accident attorneys understand how this injury can disrupt your life. Our skilled team will guide you through the legal process to help you receive the compensation you deserve.

Can You Sue for Broken Bones After a Cleveland Car Accident?

Yes, you can sue for broken bones after a Cleveland car accident if someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing caused the injury. In Ohio, the at-fault driver is typically responsible for damages through their insurance company. Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, depending on the unique circumstances. If you can prove the other driver was negligent – such as speeding, running a red light, or driving recklessly – you may file a lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries.

However, Ohio follows a comparative negligence standard. When filing a car crash injury claim, this type of negligence allows you to seek compensation for your damages, even if you are found to be partially at fault.

It is important to understand that even though you may still be eligible to file a claim, any compensation you are awarded will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Types of Fractures Cleveland Drivers Often Suffer in Crashes

After a car accident, the type of bone fracture you suffer can vary depending on the nature of the crash and the impact. Understanding the common types of fractures that Cleveland drivers often experience can help you better assess the extent of your injuries.

Simple Fractures

When you have a simple fracture, also called a closed fracture, the bone is broken but does not pierce the skin. Simple fractures are often treated with a cast or splint.

Compound Fractures

This type of fracture is more severe, as a compound bone break pierces through the skin, creating an open wound, increasing the risk of infection and other complications.

Treatment typically involves immediate medical attention to clean the wound and prevent infection. Surgery is often required to realign the bone.

Comminuted Fractures

A comminuted fracture occurs following a severe trauma, such as a high-impact single-vehicle or head-on collision. Because the bone gets fractured into multiple pieces, surgery is required. Victims with comminuted fractures face a longer recovery time, along with physical therapy.

Greenstick Fractures

An incomplete break, primarily seen in younger victims, where the bone bends but does not fully break.

Stress Fractures

Minor hairline fractures caused by repetitive stress during a car accident. For example, if a person tries to brace themselves with their arms during a collision, the repetitive impact forces can cause stress and fractures in the arms and wrist bones.

What Compensation Can You Get for Bone Fracture Injuries?

If you suffer a bone fracture in a Cleveland car accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for various damages related to your injury. This can include financial losses and the emotional toll the injury takes on your life.

• Medical Expenses: Costs for hospital treatment, surgeries, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost during your recovery time.
• Pain and Suffering: Payment for the physical pain and emotional stress caused by the injury.
• Disability or Permanent Impairment: Compensation for long-term effects if the injury leads to lasting disability or limitations.
• Property Damage: Coverage for repairs or replacement of your vehicle and personal belongings damaged in the accident.

Why Insurance Companies Undervalue Broken Bone Claims

Insurance companies may offer a quick, low settlement in an attempt to undervalue broken bone claims. Their goals do not align with yours, as their primary focus is to protect their bottom line. This is why they may try to downplay the seriousness of your injury or cast doubt on where your injury occurred. They want to reduce or fully avoid paying for your medical bills and recovery costs. In many cases, they may push you to settle before you understand the full extent of your injuries.

To further reduce their payout, insurance adjusters might challenge the severity of your fracture, question the necessity of your treatment or argue that your recovery time was unnecessarily long for the type of injury that you have. They may even suggest that you could have returned to work sooner. This is why having an experienced attorney by your side is beneficial—they can fight for fair compensation and ensure your injury is accurately calculated.

Take the Next Step by Contacting Friedman, Domiano & Smith Today

Having a lawyer after a car accident injury can significantly improve your chances of receiving fair compensation. An experienced attorney will review the details of your incident to determine if you have a valid case.

At Friedman, Domiano & Smith, we are here to provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time. Call us today for a free consultation. We are ready to help you take the first legal step. When we represent you, there are no upfront costs or fees to pay, and we fight for the full and fair compensation you need and deserve.