Car accidents can cause significant physical injuries, and broken bones and bone fractures are among the most common. Understanding which bones are most at risk can help you recognize potential injuries and seek timely medical attention, which can impact your financial recovery and future health outcomes.
Three fractures often result from motor vehicle crashes. “Displaced” fractures occur when the bone breaks into two or more parts and moves out of alignment, while “compound” fractures involve the bone piercing the skin. “Stress” fractures are smaller cracks that may develop from repetitive force or pressure.
Why Are Arm and Wrist Fractures So Frequent?
Arm and wrist fractures occur often because individuals instinctively brace themselves during impact. The forearm, radius, and ulna are particularly vulnerable when a person tries to shield the head or upper body. Airbag deployment and steering wheel impact can also place extreme force on the wrists and arms.
How Do Leg and Femur Fractures Happen During Collisions?
Leg and femur fractures are common in frontal and side-impact collisions due to the limited space within a vehicle. When the knees or thighs hit the dashboard, steering column, or door frame, the femur, tibia, and fibula can sustain severe damage. These injuries often require longer recovery times because the femur is one of the strongest bones in the body and typically breaks only under extreme force.
Are Rib Fractures Common After High-Impact Accidents?
Yes, particularly when seat belts, airbags, or steering wheels apply sudden pressure to the chest. Broken ribs can be painful and may interfere with breathing, sometimes leading to secondary complications like punctured lungs or internal bleeding.
How Are Collarbone and Shoulder Fractures Caused by Car Accidents?
Collarbones and shoulders are susceptible to fractures during rapid deceleration or side-impact crashes. The seat belt, while protecting other vital areas, can press forcefully across the clavicle, causing it to break. Similarly, the shoulder joint can absorb significant energy during a collision, leading to fractures or dislocations.
Why Are Pelvic Fractures Particularly Concerning?
Pelvic fractures typically occur in severe collisions involving high speeds or rollovers. The pelvis is a strong structure that protects internal organs, so when it fractures, surrounding tissues, nerves, and blood vessels may also be affected. These injuries frequently require immediate medical intervention and, in some cases, extensive rehabilitation.
How Do Spinal Fractures Occur in Car Accidents?
Spinal fractures happen when sudden force compresses or twists the vertebrae. These injuries are often associated with rear-end and rollover collisions, where the spine absorbs a significant amount of stress. Depending on the location and severity of the break, spinal fractures can affect mobility and stability, and in some cases, may lead to long-term complications requiring extensive recovery.
Are Facial and Skull Fractures Often Linked to Collisions?
Facial and skull fractures can result from hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, window, or airbags during a collision; bones in the nose, jaw, and cheek area are particularly vulnerable. While some fractures heal with minimal intervention, others require surgery to restore function and appearance.
How Are Broken Bones Diagnosed After a Crash?
Medical professionals typically diagnose fractures through physical examinations, imaging tests, and patient-reported symptoms. X-rays are commonly used to identify bone breaks, while CT scans or MRIs may be necessary for more severe or hidden injuries. Prompt diagnosis allows for earlier treatment, which can improve long-term outcomes and reduce the likelihood of complications.
Macon Car Accident Lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC Help Clients Pursue Fair Compensation for Broken Bones and Fractures Caused by Car Crashes
If you need an experienced car accident lawyer, contact the Macon car accident lawyers at Childers & McCain, LLC. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 478-254-2007 or fill out our online contact form. Located in Macon, Georgia, we serve clients throughout the state.