Orthopedic Injuries and Car Accidents

Car accidents are a leading cause of orthopedic injuries, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. The forces involved in a collision can subject the human body to extreme stress, leading to various orthopedic injuries.

An orthopedic injury is any injury to the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, cartilage, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. These injuries are often caused by an accident or trauma to the body, such as a severe fall or a serious car accident.

Types of orthopedic injuries

High-impact collisions can result in fractures and dislocations of bones. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, hips, and pelvis. The severity of these injuries varies, ranging from simple fractures to complex fractures that require surgical intervention.

Car accidents, particularly those involving high speeds or violent collisions, can also lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries can result in paralysis or significant impairment, depending on the level and extent of the damage. The impact of a car accident can also cause the spinal discs to herniate or bulge, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas.

Knee injuries, such as ligament tears (e.g., ACL or PCL tears) and meniscus injuries, often occur due to the sudden impact or force exerted on the knee during a collision.

The skull may be impacted during a car accident, leading to traumatic brain injuries. TBIs can range from concussions to more severe injuries with long-term cognitive and neurological effects.

Whiplash is a common consequence of rear-end collisions. The sudden acceleration and deceleration forces during a car accident can cause the neck to snap back and forth, leading to soft tissue injuries in the cervical spine.

Beyond whiplash, car accidents can cause various soft tissue injuries, including contusions, sprains, and strains. These injuries may affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments throughout the body.

Chronic orthopedic conditions, such as arthritis and bursitis, can also affect the musculoskeletal system. They can cause pain and dysfunction, making even normal daily activities difficult.

What are the treatments for orthopedic injury?

Seeking immediate medical attention after a car accident should be your first priority. Even if injuries seem minor initially, some orthopedic injuries may not manifest symptoms until later.

X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are commonly used to diagnose orthopedic injuries. These imaging techniques help healthcare professionals identify fractures, dislocations, soft tissue damage, and other injuries.

Pain relief is often a priority in orthopedic injury treatment. This may involve medications, physical therapy, and other modalities to alleviate pain and improve mobility. For fractures and dislocations, immobilization through casts, splints, or braces may be necessary to promote proper healing and prevent further damage.

Severe orthopedic injuries may require surgical intervention. Procedures such as fracture repair, joint stabilization, and spinal surgery may be performed to restore functionality and reduce pain.

Rehabilitation is another important aspect of orthopedic injury recovery. Physical therapy helps patients regain strength, flexibility, and function, improving overall mobility and reducing the risk of long-term complications.

Can I sue if a car accident caused an orthopedic injury in Little Rock?

If your car accident and resulting injuries were not your fault, you can likely take legal action against the at-fault driver. In the aftermath of a car accident, determining liability is essential. Establishing who was at fault is critical for pursuing your personal injury claim. Here’s how our Little Rock car accident attorneys can help.

• Gathering evidence is key in proving the link between the car accident and the orthopedic injuries. This may include accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and photographic evidence of the accident scene.
• Comprehensive medical documentation is essential for establishing the extent of the orthopedic injuries. This includes your records of diagnoses, treatments, medications, and rehabilitation progress.
• Damages in a personal injury claim may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. Working with our attorneys can help ensure a thorough calculation of damages.
• Dealing with insurance companies can be complex. Our lawyers can help negotiate with insurance providers to ensure fair compensation for orthopedic injuries and related expenses.

Preventing orthopedic injuries in Little Rock car accidents

While it may not be possible to eliminate all risks associated with car accidents, certain measures can reduce the likelihood of orthopedic injuries:

• Seatbelt use. Wearing seatbelts significantly reduces the risk of serious injuries in car accidents. It helps keep occupants securely in their seats, preventing ejection or severe impact.
• Proper car seat installation. For children, proper car seat installation is essential. Following manufacturer guidelines and ensuring age-appropriate restraint systems can protect young passengers.
• Adherence to speed limits. Obeying speed limits and practicing safe driving habits can prevent high-impact collisions, reducing the force exerted on occupants during accidents.
• Avoiding distractions. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Avoiding activities such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving can help maintain focus and prevent accidents.
• Regular vehicle maintenance. Ensuring that vehicles are in good working condition reduces the risk of mechanical failure that could lead to accidents.

Of course, sometimes it can be impossible to avoid a negligent driver. If you suffer orthopedic injuries in a car accident, it’s important you speak with an experienced Little Rock car accident attorney right away. At Bailey & Greer, PLLC, we have helped hundreds of clients just like you secure the compensation to which they are entitled. We have achieved many multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements and want to do the same for you.

To schedule a consultation to discuss your case, please call or contact us. We also have offices in Memphis and Jackson, Tennessee.