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Broken Bone Injuries FAQ

  1. How do fractures or broken bones occur?
  2. How long does it take a fracture to heal?
  3. How are fractures treated?
  4. What should I do if my child breaks a bone or dislocates a joint?
  5. How much money will I receive if I win my broken bone case?
  6. Do I need to retain an attorney in a broken bone accident case?
  7. How quickly should I contact an attorney?
  8. What are the most common causes of fractures?

Questions & Answers

How do fractures or broken bones occur?
Answer:

Normally, when an outside stress is applied to the bone, the bone "gives" and then returns to its normal shape when the stress stops. However, if the stress is too strong for the bone, the bone will crack or break. Bones that are weakened by disease are more likely to break.

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How long does it take a fracture to heal?
Answer:

It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months for a fracture to heal. Everyone’s body is different and your body may take more or less time to heal.

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How are fractures treated?
Answer:


Commonly, a plaster or fiberglass cast stabilizes the broken bone while it is healing. For some fractures, doctors use functional casts, which are made from material that allows some controlled movement. Severe fractures may require surgery. During surgery, doctors may insert screws to hold the bones in place or attach plates to the outer surface of the bones. The method of treatment depends on a variety of factors, including the type and location of the fracture and its severity.

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What should I do if my child breaks a bone or dislocates a joint?
Answer:

A broken bone or dislocated joint is a serious injury that requires a doctor’s immediate attention. The best thing you can do is protect the injured area, making sure your child doesn’t worsen the damage.
Fractures are breaks, cracks, or chips in a bone. A fractured bone that pierces through the skin is called an open fracture. Because of bleeding and the risk of infection, open fractures are the most potentially dangerous. Fortunately, closed fractures, which do not break the skin, are the most common kind. A dislocation occurs when the bone slips out of its normal place in the joint.

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How much money will I receive if I win my broken bone case?
Answer:

There is no hard and fast rule for placing a financial value upon a case. Cases are evaluated based upon the circumstances of the accident, severity of the injury and its impact upon individuals day-to-day affairs, including employment.

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Do I need to retain an attorney in a broken bone accident case?
Answer:

Investigating and developing a claim for a serious injury such as a broken bone is a very complex process. Attorneys who are experienced in handling serious personal injury claims are best situated to make sure that this process is carried out in a way that best protects your interest and maximizes the compensation that you receive.

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How quickly should I contact an attorney?
Answer:

To be safe, you should talk to an attorney as soon as possible, especially if the injuries are severe. All too often valuable evidence disappears, witnesses move, memories grow dim and the practical ability to prove your case may diminish. If a physician is still treating you, an attorney can also provide you with guidance concerning your medical care and help you deal with unpaid bills and getting needed treatment.

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What are the most common causes of fractures?
Answer:

Trauma to the bone, like that caused by a fall or motor vehicle accident, is the number one cause of fractures. Osteoporosis, a disease that causes bone thinning, is a major contributor to fractures. Individuals with osteoporosis are more susceptible to bone fractures. Overuse or misuse of the bones can also cause fractures. This normally occurs among athletes. The column to the right has links to some of the more common causes of broken bones.

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