Fractures, the medical term for broken bones, are among the most common injuries—but they can be deceptively serious. While many people recover fully, the healing process often involves weeks of disability and limited mobility. In some cases, the effects of a fracture can be long-term or even permanent.

Because of this, it's important to take fractures seriously—even if the initial symptoms seem mild. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation under Georgia law.

How Do Bones Break?

Although bones are strong, they are not indestructible. High force—such as in a fall, collision, or direct blow—can break or shatter bone tissue. In some cases, even a relatively minor force can cause a fracture if applied at a vulnerable angle or location.

Common causes of fractures include:

• Car accidents
• Motorcycle collisions
• Slip and falls
• Physical assaults
• Dog bites or animal attacks

During high-impact incidents, fractures can occur from direct impact or secondary trauma, like being thrown inside a vehicle or pinned between surfaces.

What Should You Do After Suffering a Fracture?

In many cases, the injured person may not immediately realize a bone is broken. The body produces a surge of adrenaline after trauma, which can temporarily mask pain and delay medical attention.

Signs of a fracture include:

• Intense pain at the injury site
• A visible deformity in a limb or joint
• Swelling, bruising, or bluish discoloration
• Numbness or tingling
• A bone protruding through the skin

If you suspect a fracture, seek immediate medical attention. Immobilize the area, apply ice, and avoid movement. If there is bleeding, apply pressure while waiting for help.

Even if you believe no one else was responsible, consult with a Georgia personal injury attorney. Many fractures result from the negligence of others, and speaking with a lawyer is the only way to determine whether compensation is possible.

What Compensation Can You Get for a Broken Bone?

The value of your personal injury claim depends on the severity of the injury, how it impacts your ability to work, and your medical treatment costs. Common categories of compensation include:

Lost Wages

Most fractures require weeks or months of immobilization. If you break a limb, you may be unable to:

• Drive
• Type or use a computer
• Lift or carry objects
• Cook or perform essential tasks

Whether you work in an office or a physically demanding job, a fracture often results in lost income. Georgia law allows you to pursue compensation for these wage losses if the injury was caused by another party’s negligence.

Medical Bills

Simple fractures may only require a cast and follow-up visits. But severe breaks may involve:

• Surgery
• Hospitalization
• Physical therapy
• Long-term care

Even a single outpatient surgery can cost thousands of dollars. Georgia law permits injured parties to recover both past and future medical expenses, provided proper documentation is submitted.

What Are the Worst Consequences of a Fracture?

Fractures are not always routine injuries. In some cases, they lead to serious complications, particularly in older adults or when proper healing doesn’t occur.

Amputation

If a bone becomes infected due to improper healing or medical complications, the only way to stop the spread of infection may be surgical removal—sometimes requiring amputation.

Permanent Disability

Some fractures—like a broken hip or spinal vertebrae—may result in lasting mobility loss. Older adults may lose independence, while others may require assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers.

Death

Though rare, certain complications from fractures can be fatal. A bone chip may cause internal bleeding or damage to vital organs. If a loved one died from fracture-related injuries, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim.

Contact a Georgia Personal Injury Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love has suffered a fracture in Georgia, Kunnatha Lawson LLC can help. You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, but time is limited.

Call (678) 446-3655 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Georgia personal injury attorney. We'll assess your case and help you understand your legal options.