Car accidents frequently result in injuries to accident victims. Some injuries are deemed mild, while others are considered severe. Each state in the United States has its method of evaluating the severity of an injury. Fractured bones can be classified as mild or significant injuries based on which bone is fractured and the implications the injury has on the individual. A broken finger, for example, is not considered a significant bodily injury. However, shattering a bone, which may substantially impact a person’s quality of life, may be considered a serious injury. For more information about car accident injuries, speak to a Huntington car accident lawyer immediately.
What is a serious bodily injury?
In most states, a serious bodily injury is defined as one that involves:
- Prolonged loss or impairment of a bodily part or organ’s function.
- Injuries that are permanent, including major permanent disfigurement.
- A significant danger of mortality.
Some shattered bone fractures are deemed significant if the person has long-term repercussions. For example, if you break a bone and cannot walk for a long time, you may have suffered a serious bodily injury.
Some examples of serious bodily injuries
Serious bodily injuries often result in life-altering harm to the body and can have a substantial impact on a person’s quality of life. Some people heal from injuries over time, but many major injuries are permanent. The following are some common examples of major body injuries:
- Paralysis.
- Loss of limbs.
- Severely broken bones.
- Serious permanent disfigurement.
- Serious burns and cuts.
- Spinal cord injuries.
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI).
- Permanent scarring.
Many motor vehicle accidents result in significant injuries to victims. A personal injury attorney will look into the circumstances of your case to see if you are entitled to compensation for your injuries.
Are dental injuries included?
A fractured tooth from an automobile accident falls under New York State’s “fracture” category. As a result, a dental injury may qualify as a qualifying severe injury, particularly if dental care is necessary.
Common causes of serious bodily injuries
A significant bodily injury might occur either accidentally or on purpose. The following are the most prevalent causes of these injuries:
- Car accidents.
- Aggravated assault.
- Robbery.
- Battery.
- Accidents involving faulty equipment.
- Accidents involving heavy machinery.
- Construction accidents.
While this summary provides a basic overview of fractures and how they might qualify as a “serious injury,” each accident is unique. If you were in a vehicle accident and sustained a fracture, a skilled car accident injury attorney can examine your specific scenario and help you determine whether you are eligible for compensation, so call one today.