Pilon Fractures
Compensation for a Pilon Fracture as a Result of an Accident
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you know that bone fractures are among the common consequences of such a traumatic incident. Even though fractures are considered "moderate" injuries, we know that these injuries can require lengthy treatment and rehabilitation. Pilon fractures, which affect the bottom of the shinbone at the ankle joint, fall under this category.
In many pilon fractures, the bones of the ankle joint are crushed due to a high-energy impact, such as a car accident. If your injury has been caused by someone else's negligence or wrongdoing, it is important that you understand your legal rights and options. You may be entitled to compensation to cover your significant losses. Call the bone fracture attorneys at The Husband & Wife Law Team to find out how we can help you.
Understanding Pilon Fractures
Pilon fractures are often caused by high-energy impacts and affect both bones of the lower leg. Common causes of pilon fractures include falls and auto accidents. Age can also be a significant risk factor. The average age of someone with a pilon fracture is 35 to 40. Pilon fractures are rarely seen in children and the elderly. However, as our senior population increases, we see more and more elderly people sustaining this type of injury.
It is also worth noting that men are three times more likely to suffer pilon fractures than women. In recent years, impact from airbags has also contributed to an increase in pilon fractures. Since airbags do not protect the occupants' legs in the event of a car crash, we see more leg injuries such as pilon fractures in auto accidents. Some of the common symptoms of shinbone/tibia fractures include:
Severe and immediate pain
Swelling and bruising
Tender to the touch
Deformity (ankle may look crooked or angled)
Inability to put weight on the injured foot
Liability Issues of Pilon Fractures
Treatment and rehabilitation for pilon fractures can often prove costly. Most pilon fractures require surgery. Whether you require multiple surgeries depends on how displaced or fractured your bone is. You’ll probably be unable to put weight on your ankle for as long as 12 weeks after your injury. During surgery, metal implants such as screws and plates are used to hold bones in place until complete healing has taken place.
Responsible parties in such cases may include a negligent driver who may have caused a car accident. Workers who suffer injuries on the job may seek workers' compensation benefits from their employers. In addition, workers may also be able to file a third-party claim against a party other than the employer who may have caused or contributed to the injuries.
Senior citizens who are injured as a result of negligence on the part of staff members in a nursing home or assisted living facility, can file a claim against the company or organization that owns and runs the facility. These are just a few examples of who could be held liable for injuries and losses sustained by victims.
Contact an Experienced Fractured Pilon Lawyer
If you or a loved one has suffered pilon fractures as a result of someone else's negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to receive compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, loss of earning capacity, cost of surgeries and rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. The experienced injury lawyers at The Husband & Wife Law Team can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Call us to schedule your no-cost consultation and case evaluation.