Broken bones, also known as bone fractures, are among the most common injuries suffered in accidents. They can range from relatively minor cracks that heal with limited intervention to severe fractures that require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
Even a single broken bone can disrupt daily life, limit mobility, and result in significant medical expenses and time away from work. While some fractures heal without complications, others lead to chronic pain, reduced function, or permanent impairment.
Understanding how broken bones occur, how they are treated, and what steps to take afterward can help protect both physical health and legal rights.
Types of Broken Bones
Broken bones can vary widely in severity, location, and complexity. Medical professionals classify fractures based on how the bone breaks and whether the surrounding tissue is affected.
Common types of broken bones include:
- Simple (closed) fractures: The bone breaks but does not pierce the skin. These fractures are often treated with casting or immobilization.
- Compound (open) fractures: The broken bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection and often requiring surgical treatment.
- Comminuted fractures: The bone shatters into three or more pieces. These fractures are typically caused by high-impact accidents and may require surgery.
- Greenstick fractures: Partial fractures in which the bone bends and cracks but does not break completely. These are more common in children.
- Stress fractures: Small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive force or overuse, often seen in athletes or physically demanding jobs.
- Compression fractures: Fractures caused by the bone collapsing under pressure, commonly affecting the spine.
The type of fracture often influences the course of treatment, recovery time, and whether long-term complications are likely. More severe fracture types may result in extended medical care and greater impact on daily life.
Common Causes of Broken Bones
Broken bones often occur suddenly and without warning, particularly in accidents involving force or impact. Common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents, including car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian collisions
- Slip and fall accidents on wet floors, uneven pavement, or poorly maintained property
- Workplace accidents involving heavy equipment, falls from heights, or repetitive stress
- Sports and recreational injuries
- Bicycle or pedestrian accidents
- Physical assaults or other traumatic incidents
In many cases, these accidents are preventable and may be linked to negligence, unsafe conditions, or reckless behavior.
Broken Bone Symptoms
The symptoms of a broken bone can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture. Some fractures are immediately obvious, while others may be mistaken for sprains or bruises.
Common symptoms include:
- Severe pain that worsens with movement or pressure
- Swelling, bruising, or tenderness around the injured area
- Difficulty moving or bearing weight
- Visible deformity or abnormal positioning of the limb
- Numbness or tingling near the injury site
- A snapping or grinding sensation at the time of injury
Any suspected fracture should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible to prevent further damage or complications.
Steps To Take After Suffering a Broken Bone
Taking the right steps after a broken bone can support recovery and help preserve important evidence if the injury occurred due to an accident.
Here’s what you should do if you experience a broken bone:
- Seek immediate medical care: Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for proper healing and documenting the injury.
- Follow medical instructions closely: This includes wearing casts or braces, attending follow-up appointments, and completing physical therapy if recommended.
- Document the accident: If possible, take photos of the scene, gather witness information, and obtain copies of any incident or police reports.
- Keep medical records and receipts: Documentation of treatment, medications, and related expenses may be important later.
- Avoid discussing the incident publicly: Statements made to insurance companies or on social media can sometimes be used against an injured person.
These steps can make a meaningful difference both medically and legally.
Statute of Limitations for Broken Bone Claims
In Virginia, personal injury claims involving broken bones are subject to a strict statute of limitations. In most cases, an injured person has two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If a claim is not filed within this two-year period, the injured party may lose the right to seek compensation entirely, regardless of the severity of the broken bone or the strength of the evidence.
A Manassas Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Broken bone injuries in Virginia can be painful, disruptive, and costly, especially when they result from another party’s negligence. A personal injury lawyer can evaluate the circumstances of the injury, explain available legal options, and help pursue compensation.
To learn more, contact The Parrish Car Accident & Personal Injury Law Firm at (571) 229-1800. We offer a free consultation with a Manassas personal injury attorney who can help you get back on your feet.
