Facing a shoulder fracture is never an easy proposition, but it can be especially difficult after a Spokane car accident. Unlike some other injuries that may heal relatively quickly with rest and rehabilitation, shoulder fractures can be particularly challenging to deal with. For one, the shoulder joint is extremely complex. Couple this with the fact that it is involved in so many everyday activities, and it means that even a relatively minor fracture can have a significant impact on your quality of life.
Additionally, because the shoulder is so essential to the body’s movement and function, it is often difficult to immobilize the joint completely, which can make the healing process more difficult and lengthy. This means that you’ll likely be facing mounting medical bills, among other costs. In these situations, it’s important to understand what options you have and where you can go to get help.
CCD Law Can Help You After a Car Accident
Whenever you’ve been injured in a car accident, our experienced team of Spokane car accident lawyers at CCD Law will be there to help. Since 1948, Crary, Chuang, and Dominaco, P.S. have helped clients throughout the Spokane area deal with the legal process for recovering compensation for their injuries. We’ve developed a proven system of success with these claims, including those involving bone fractures. Don’t wait to get the help you need, contact us today to set up a free, no-obligation consultation.
What Factors Into Shoulder Fractures in Spokane Car Accidents?
Any car accident carries the risk of significant injury, as there are several different factors that all converge into certain injuries and scenarios. More to the point, all of these factors are present on the road in Spokane. Taken together, any or all of the following factors can contribute to a shoulder fracture in a Spokane car accident:
- Impact of the collision – The force of the impact in a car accident can cause significant trauma to the shoulder joint, leading to fractures or breaks in the bones.
- Type of collision – Accidents that involve side impacts or rollovers can increase the risk of shoulder fractures, as the shoulder may be more vulnerable to injury in these types of crashes.
- Speed – Higher speeds at the time of the accident can increase the likelihood and severity of shoulder fractures.
- Seatbelt use – Proper seatbelt use can help reduce the risk of injuries, including shoulder fractures. However, if the seatbelt is not positioned correctly or if it fails to hold the body securely in place during the collision, it can increase the risk of shoulder injuries.
- Airbag deployment – Airbags can provide protection in a crash and help reduce the risk of injuries. However, if the airbag deploys with excessive force or is positioned incorrectly, it can increase the risk of shoulder fractures.
- Individual factors – Factors such as age, overall health, and pre-existing medical conditions can all impact the likelihood of sustaining a shoulder fracture in a car accident. If you’re an older adult or have weaker bones, you may be at higher risk for fractures, while individuals with pre-existing shoulder injuries or medical conditions may be more susceptible to re-injury or complications.
With all of these factors present, it adds up to the possibility of dealing with an extremely painful shoulder fracture. Not only that, but in certain scenarios, you could be dealing with a number of other injuries on top of a shoulder fracture.
Different Types of Shoulder Fractures in Spokane Car Accidents
Not only are shoulder fractures particularly difficult to deal with and recover from, but there are also a number of different types of fractures that could result in a car accident. Given the part of the body and complexity of the shoulder joint and surrounding bone structure, you could be facing any of the following:
- Clavicle fractures – The clavicle, or collarbone, is the bone that runs horizontally between the sternum and shoulder blade. It is susceptible to fractures in car accidents, particularly in side impacts or rollovers.
- Scapula fractures – The scapula, or shoulder blade, is the flat triangular-shaped bone located on the back of the shoulder. It can be fractured in car accidents, particularly those that occur in high-speed collisions.
- Humerus fractures – The humerus is the bone that runs from the shoulder to the elbow. It can be fractured in car accidents due to the impact of the collision or due to the force of the body being thrown against the door or dashboard.
- Fractured glenoid – The glenoid is a shallow socket in the shoulder blade that forms the ball and socket joint with the humerus. A fracture to this area can occur in high-impact car accidents and can result in significant pain and loss of mobility.
- Fractured scapular neck – The scapular neck is the narrow part of the shoulder blade that connects it to the rest of the shoulder. Fractures in this area can occur in car accidents due to direct trauma or force of the impact.
- Acromion fractures – The acromion is a bony projection at the top of the shoulder blade. It can be fractured in car accidents due to the force of the impact or due to a direct blow to the shoulder.
Treatment
Treatment options for shoulder fractures depend on the type of fracture. That said, common treatment options include:
- Immobilization
- Pain management
- Physical therapy
- Surgery
- Rest and rehabilitation
Initially, the shoulder may need to be immobilized using a sling or brace to prevent movement and promote healing. Pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed to manage pain and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility of the shoulder joint. In severe cases, you may need surgery to repair the fracture. Rest and rehabilitation are also important parts of the healing process, and follow-up care is essential to monitor the progress of healing.
What Should You Do After a Spokane Car Accident?
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, there are several things you’ll need to do to make sure you’re safe. The top priority, of course, is getting to safety. From that point, you’ll want to check yourself or anyone else for injuries. This is sometimes easier said than done, particularly if you’ve suffered a shoulder fracture. Generally, though, you should take the following steps:
- Report the accident – Contact the police and report the accident, providing any necessary information such as your location and the number of vehicles involved.
- Exchange information – Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident, including names, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
- Take photos and videos – Take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to vehicles and the surrounding area.
- Seek medical attention – Even if you don’t feel any immediate pain or discomfort, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent but could develop over time.
Legal Options and Considerations
After you’ve taken the above steps, you can then move on to pursuing your legal options. Here are some of the potential legal options available:
- Insurance claim – You can file a claim with your own insurance company or the at-fault driver’s insurance company to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. You may want to consider consulting with a personal injury attorney before making any statements or accepting any settlements from an insurance company.
- Personal injury lawsuit – If you are unable to reach a satisfactory settlement with the insurance company, you may choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver. This can allow you to recover compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
- Comparative fault – Washington State follows a “comparative fault” system, which means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if you are found to be 25% at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by 25%.
- Statute of limitations – It’s important to note that there is a time limit, or statute of limitations, for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Washington State. In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. It’s recommended to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible after the accident to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.
These are just a few potential legal options after a Spokane car accident resulting in a shoulder fracture. Every case is unique, and the best course of action will depend on the specifics of your situation. Therefore, it’s important to consult with our team of Spokane car accident lawyers to understand your legal rights and options.
Experienced and Dedicated Spokane Car Accident Lawyers
At CCD Law, we understand how difficult and stressful the aftermath of a car accident can be, particularly after suffering a shoulder fracture or other serious injury. That’s why our team of experienced and dedicated Spokane car accident lawyers is here to help you navigate the complex legal system and get the justice you deserve. Don’t wait – contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation and find out how we can help you.
