When a negligent driver causes a car accident, one common injury that victims can suffer is a hip injury. This can be especially dangerous for an elderly driver or passenger who is more likely to suffer complications from his injury and be left with permanent injuries and mobility problems. Even a younger adult who is relatively healthy can suffer excruciating pain and limitations in his ability to work and take care of his daily needs for months or longer while he recovers. If you or a loved one suffered a hip injury in a car crash, our experienced car accident attorneys are here to fight for the compensation that you deserve.
What Are Common Hip Injuries Caused in Motor Vehicle Accidents?
The hip is a joint where many bones meet and is one of the largest weight-bearing joints in the body. It is comprised of a ball-shaped head called the femoral head that fits into the acetabulum, which is the socket in the pelvis. The hip is surrounded by muscles, tendons, cartilage, and ligaments. These, as well as the hip joint, can be injured due to the impact of a car accident. In some cases, the injury can be life-threatening. Common injuries that car accident victims suffer include:
- Hip fractures. A broken or fractured hip is one of the most serious hip injuries and is often caused in higher speed car crashes. Symptoms can include severe pain in the hip or groin, inability to move or put weight on the injured hip, and bruising and swelling. Surgery is almost always required to repair the damage, and there is a risk of serious complications, like blood clots, pneumonia, and bed sores—sometimes life-threatening.
- Bursitis. Bursitis is a painful condition that affects the fluid-filled sacs called the bursae that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles of the hip. Swelling, debilitating joint pain, and inability to move the joint are a few of the symptoms of bursitis. A car accident victim could need pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery to treat this medical condition.
- Hip dislocation. A hip dislocation can occur if the femoral bone detaches from the hip joint and immobilizes the joint. Complications can include damage to surrounding tendons, muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Prompt medical care is required to return the joints to their proper position. Surgery, immobilization, and physical therapy may also be needed.
If you suffered a hip injury in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering from the negligent driver. However, this does not mean that you will not have to fight to obtain a fair settlement from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. To learn how we can help, fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.
|
Related Links: |