If you’ve suffered a broken arm in a car accident, then you likely can file a claim. However, whether you do this through your insurance policy’s personal injury protection (PIP) or against an at-fault party will likely depend on the severity of the injury.
In this article, we’ll explain filing a claim for a broken arm, as well as how aFort Lauderdale car accident lawyer can help you seek fair compensation for your losses.
Filing a Claim for a Broken Arm in a Car Accident
Under Florida’s no-fault policies, typically, any injuries are first addressed by your insurance policy. Florida drivers are required to carry at least $10,000 inpersonal injury protection (PIP) coverage in their insurance policy. This coverage is meant to cover necessary and reasonable medical expenses and a portion of your lost wages.
However, your needed medical care can quickly exceed your coverage limits. For example, if a broken arm requires surgery and extensive physical therapy to treat, then $10,000 may only be a drop in the bucket of your medical expenses.
In the case ofsevere injuries, you may be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver in your car accident. It’s important to note that if you intend to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party, you generally only have two years to do so underFlorida Statutes § 95.11.
The Average Settlement for a Broken Arm in a Car Accident
There is no average to expect for a broken arm car accident settlement. Unique factors, such as the severity of your injury and the impact it has on your life, as well asyour part in causing the accident, all affect the value of the final settlement.
Some losses that may factor in fair compensation include the following:
- Medical expenses, now and in the future
- Scarring or disfigurement, such as if the break leads to amputation of the arm
- Physical pain and suffering
- Loss of quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Lost wages while recovering
- Diminished earning capacity if limited mobility means you are never able to return to work
YourFort Lauderdale personal injury lawyer will carefully examine your losses so that they can advocate for the maximum compensation you are entitled to receive. They may even consult with medical and financial experts to demonstrate how a broken bone has disrupted your life.
In cases of compound or complex fractures, the road to recovery may be long and filled with complications. Some individuals may require bone grafting, internal fixation with rods or plates, or even revision surgeries. These procedures can significantly increase the cost of treatment and should be factored into your claim.
Beyond physical treatment, the psychological effects of a broken arm, especially one caused by a traumatic collision, can be serious. You may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, or depression. These emotional injuries are just as real as physical ones and may entitle you to additional compensation.
Understanding Fault and Its Impact on Your Claim
Although Florida is a no-fault state, the severity of your injuries can shift the case into a fault-based system. This means determining who caused the accident becomes crucial. If the other driver was texting, speeding, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent, their liability insurance may be responsible for covering your damages.
Evidence such as police reports, eyewitness statements, dash cam footage, and accident reconstructions may be used to build a strong case. Your attorney will work to prove that the other party’s negligence directly caused your injuries and the subsequent financial burden.
Comparative fault may also be a factor. If you are found partially at fault, your compensation could be reduced in proportion to your responsibility. A strong legal strategy will aim to minimize any findings of contributory negligence on your part.
Long-Term Effects of a Broken Arm After a Car Crash
A broken arm may sound minor, but it can have profound, long-term implications. If your dominant arm is affected, even basic tasks such as eating, dressing, or typing can become challenging. Some individuals are unable to return to their former jobs, particularly in labor-intensive fields like construction, healthcare, or food service.
The permanent loss of mobility or strength may also impact your hobbies, caregiving responsibilities, or ability to drive. These impacts should be fully documented to show the extent of the disruption to your life. A life care planner or occupational therapist may provide a report to quantify these changes for settlement or trial.
Choose a Legal Team With Proven Results and Experience
At the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato, we have a long history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for injured clients throughout Fort Lauderdale and South Florida.
Some of our notable results include:
- $3.85 million truck rollover injury settlement
- $5.25 million wrongful death in a truck accident
- $925,000 negligent security case
- $2 million pedestrian injury recovery
We leverage our resources to investigate every detail of your case and consult with respected medical and financial experts. Our goal is to hold the at-fault party accountable and maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. That ensures our interests align with yours every step of the way.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney Serving Fort Lauderdale Today
If you have a broken arm after a car accident, our Fort Lauderdale car accident lawyers can help you hold a negligent driver financially accountable.The Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato have over two decades of experience helping injury clients throughout South Florida. We will fight for the fair compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Our personal injury attorneys work on a contingency fee basis. There are no upfront costs, and you only pay us when we recover compensation on your behalf. Call (954) 633-8270 today for a complimentary initial consultation about your personal injury claim.