Blog

Home » Blog » Common Broken Bones in Car Accidents

Common Broken Bones in Car Accidents

Name: Janicek Law
Address: 1100 NE Interstate 410 Loop #600, San Antonio, Texas, 78209
Telephone: 210-366-4949

March 10, 2023
Car Accidents

Broken bone injuries are most commonly caused by falls, trampoline accidents, repetitive motions, violent assaults, and car accidents, with thousands of Americans suffering from these injuries every single year. Doctors usually categorize specific types of bone fractures based on the pattern of the break, the cause of the break, and where the break occurs in the body. Below, our San Antonio personal injury lawyers break down the most common broken bones in car accidents.

Broken bones can easily cause car accident victims to suffer thousands of dollars of debt due to the combination of medical costs and lost wages. The at-fault driver’s auto insurance policy can only cover so much of these damages, which is why many crash victims turn to civil lawsuits. San Antonio personal injury lawyers at Janicek Law have decades of combined experience in helping their clients recover the financial compensation they deserve for their car accident injuries. We can help you do the same. Call 210-366-4949 to schedule a free consultation today.

Bone Fracture vs. Broken Bone

Broken bones and bone fractures are the exact same thing. A bone fracture is the technical, medical diagnosis that doctors make when a bone breaks. The diagnosis will likely also include the specific type of fracture that the patient suffered as well.

Types of Broken Bones

There are several types of broken bone injuries, and doctors generally characterize them by the pattern of the break, the cause of the break, or where the fracture occurs in the body.

Listed below are the types of fractured bones that are characterized by a complete break.

Longitudinal Fractures occur along the axis of the bone. In other words, the bone breaks right down the middle, starting from the top (or near the top) to the bottom.
Transverse Fractures: A transverse fracture is sort of the opposite of a longitudinal fracture. Instead of the fracture extending from top to bottom, the fracture extends straight across the bone.
Oblique Fractures: An oblique fracture occurs when the bone breaks at an angle instead of straight across.

Sometimes, bones break in a straight line. Other times, bones break in a jagged line. Below, we list the types of fractures that usually resemble jagged lines.

Spiral Fractures: A spiral fracture usually occurs from a violent twisting motion. The resulting fracture may circle around the entire bone like a corkscrew, or the bone may be broken into multiple jagged pieces.
Segmental Fractures occur when a bone breaks in two places, not just one. As a result, the patient will have a small segment of separated bone.
Comminuted Fractures: A comminuted fracture is a bone that broke in two or more places. This is one of the more severe types of bone fractures that may require surgical repair and a lengthy healing process.
Greenstick Fractures occur when the bone cracks. In other words, the bone doesn’t break into two or more pieces.

Doctors also diagnose fractures based on their causes. These types of fractures include:

Buckle Fractures: A buckle fracture is also known as a torus fracture, and it occurs when one side of the bone bends and creates a “buckle.” The other side of the bone does not break.
Avulsion Fractures: An avulsion fracture occurs when a small piece of bone, attached to a ligament or tendon, gets ripped away from the rest of the bone.
Stress Fractures: A stress fracture (AKA a hairline fracture) is a tiny crack in the bone, most commonly caused by repetitive stress. Hairline fractures usually occur in the bones that carry the most body weight, such as the ankles and feet.

Lastly, doctors may classify your type of fracture based on whether or not you can see it through the skin. For example: open fractures – also known as compound fractures – are characterized by bone fragments that pierce through the skin. A compound fracture can come with serious complications like infections. Meanwhile, a closed fracture is one that doesn’t pierce through the skin.

What Causes a Broken Bone During a Car Accident?

One of the most common causes of broken bones are car wrecks. But how exactly do fractures from car accidents happen? Below, we list some common scenarios that often lead to fractures during a car accident.

Hitting the steering wheel during head on collisions.
Violent impacts from front or side airbags.
Being ejected from a vehicle during a crash.
Raising arms up in front of the face in order to block the blow from airbags.
Crush injuries during a crash, such as being crushed inside the vehicle or being crushed by another vehicle like a large truck.
The force of the seat belt holding a driver in place during an accident.

Additionally, broken bones and crush injuries often occur from feet on dashboard accidents in San Antonio.

most common bones broken in car accidents

Most Common Broken Bones in Car Accidents

You can suffer a broken bone almost anywhere in the body during a car accident, especially depending on where your car or body suffered the most impact. However, doctors generally see the following common fractures after car accidents:

Skull and Facial Fractures can occur if someone violently hits their head or face on a steering wheel or a window during a crash. Facial bones that commonly break during car crashes are the nasal bones, jaw bones, and cheekbones. Additionally, the force of airbags hitting the face can definitely cause some severe skull fractures or facial fractures.
Arm, Hand, and Wrist Fractures: If you try to protect your head with your hands or arms during a car accident, you can suffer some serious damage, mostly due to the airbag.
Clavicle Fractures: Did you know that the clavicle is the most commonly broken bone in the human body? That’s because it’s so thin. It doesn’t take much force to break it. The impact of an airbag or the body slamming sideways towards a door can definitely break a clavicle bone.
Spinal Fractures occur when the force of a motor vehicle accident causes the spinal vertebrae in the neck or back to break.
Sternum and Rib Fractures are very common in car accidents due to the force of the seat belt on the abdomen during impact. Airbags can also cause sternum and rib fractures.
Pelvis and Hip Fractures can occur due to the force of the seat belt holding the body in place during an accident. Pelvis fractures are also very common in San Antonio motorcycle accident claims and San Antonio bicycle accident claims. Women with prior pelvic fractures from childbirth in San Antonio are at an increased risk of broken hips and pelvis in collisions.
Fibula and Femur Fractures: The leg bones are some of the strongest bones in the body because, if you think about it, they have to hold the majority of our body weight. Still, it’s very possible to suffer a broken leg during a violent car accident.

How Do I Know if I Have a Broken Bone After a Car Accident?

Firstly, you should always seek immediate medical treatment after a car accident, whether you think you’re injured or not. But if you do have a broken bone after a car crash, you may experience the following symptoms:

Intense pain and tenderness in the affected body part
Bruising and/or swelling in the affected body part
Inability to move or use the affected body part
A noticeable bump or deformity in the affected body part
A piece of bone has pierced through the skin (in the case of a compound fracture)

Treatment Options for Broken Bones After a Car Accident

Car accident fractures can be treated in the following ways:

Immobilization: If your broken bone is fairly mild and the bones are non-displaced (AKA: they didn’t move out of alignment), then your doctor will likely recommend a cast or a splint. Most people need a splint for 3 to 5 weeks, while others need a cast for 6 to 8 weeks. It all depends on the severity and location of the broken bone.
Closed Reduction: Severe fractures that cause the bones to move out of alignment will need to be moved back into place. A doctor will do this by literally pushing and pulling on the body to get the bone to move back into alignment. This is very painful, which is why most patients are heavily sedated or unconscious during closed reduction. Afterwards, the patient will likely need a splint or a cast.
Surgical Repair: A severe type of fracture, such as a comminuted fracture, will require surgery. Depending on the exact type of fracture, the surgeon may use rods, screws, pins, wires, or even a bone graft to repair the bone.
Bed Rest: Resting is crucial in order for the bone to heal properly.
Pain Medication: People who suffer bone fractures from car accidents often need pain medication during the healing process.
Physical Therapy is usually reserved for severe fractures that require surgery and months of bed rest. After so many months of not using or putting weight on the bone, patients will likely have to ease back into normal movement with the help of a physical therapist.

How Long Does it Take for Broken Bones To Heal?

The answer to this question heavily depends on the type of fracture suffered as well as what caused the fracture. Very mild fractures can completely heal within 1 to 2 months, especially with proper treatment. Meanwhile, severe fractures that require a surgical procedure can take up to a year to fully heal. Be sure to ask your doctor for a specific timeline of your recovery process.

Can You Sue for a Broken Bone From a Car Accident?

Yes, if you suffered one or more bone fractures during a car accident, then you can take legal action against the negligent driver. Auto insurance may be enough to cover the medical costs of a mild fracture. But severe fractures are very painful and very expensive. In some cases, car accident victims with severe fractures need multiple surgeries and physical therapy appointments to get back to their normal level of functioning. In cases like this, you can definitely file a personal injury lawsuit against the at fault driver.

Damages for Broken Bones in Car Accidents

If you decide to move forward with a personal injury lawsuit, San Antonio car accident lawyers can help you recover financial compensation for the following types of damages:

Past and future medical bills
Past and future physical therapy bills
Lost wages
Physical pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Mental health counseling bills

Call San Antonio Car Accident Lawyers at Janicek Law Today

If you suffer fractures or other serious injuries from an auto accident, you have grounds to take legal action against the at-fault driver. One or more broken bones can be incredibly expensive due to the combination of medical expenses and lost wages. So car accident victims can face mountains of debt even from a fairly minor broken leg. It’s important to remember that you can pursue financial compensation, and San Antonio car accident lawyers at Janicek Law can help. Call 210-366-4949 to schedule a free consultation with our legal team today.

Practice Areas

Multi-Million Dollar Results For Over 30 Years

Schedule a Free Consultation

    
 
 
        
   Natasha Garza 
 31 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had an amazing experience with Janicek Law from beginning to end. Karen Rangel recommended us to Cassidy Muniz, and we are so thankful she did. Cassidy assisted myself, my husband, and our two daughters, and all four of us are extremely happy with the experience and outcome. Cassidy truly went above and beyond for our entire family. She was always responsive, patient, professional, and helpful, and she kept us informed throughout the entire process. Everything went smoothly, we had no issues, and she made what could have been a stressful situation so much easier for us. The entire team at Janicek Law is amazing, and we felt like we were in great hands from start to finish. We are incredibly grateful to Karen for recommending Cassidy and especially grateful to Cassidy for everything she did for our family. We would 100% recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law to anyone looking for a team that truly cares about their clients. Thank you all so much for everything! ❤️
  
 
       
   Alex McWhirter 
 18 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were referred to Janicek Law firm from a lawyer in Brownsville, who pointed out that they are experts in the field of medical malpractice and I am so grateful. We worked with Andrew and Gaby and they were dedicated and worked hard to get us the best possible outcome. They kept us informed and updated through every step of the process, always with a friendly and very professional disposition. Despite language and distance challenges, they accommodated all of our needs, and I would highly recommend Janicek Law Firm. They made a bad situation better by listening to our concerns, helping us through a sorrowful time for my family, and advising on how to defeat our opponent. For any families that have a beloved and elderly relative who suffered in the hands of callous and neglectful medical institutions, Janicek Law Firm were amazing in advocating for our relative and making these corporate entities accountable. Thank you, Andrew and Gaby, we really appreciated your help!
  
 
       
   Heidi Soto 
 8 August 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr Bernal and Karen were great. They always kept me up to date on all that was going on at all times. When it came down to mediation Mr Bernal knew exactly what to do and say to make things clear with the insurance company who wanted to take advantage of me. I highly recommend Mr Bernal if you ever are in an accident. He will definitely take care of you.
  
 
       
   Lucy 
 30 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am beyond thankful for everyone at Janicek law for the professionalism, dedication, and support you all have showed throughout my lawsuit. From the very beginning, you all made a difficult and stressful situation much easier to navigate! Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, keeping me informed every step of the way and making this process as stress free as possible! I can without a doubt definitely recommend this law firm!
  
 
       
   Iris Contreras 
 16 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have started this review so many times, but every time I do, I realize there simply aren't enough words to thank the people at Janicek Law. Almost 3 years ago, my world ended. I lost my son, Zayden—the greatest love of my life. My other son, Zy, witnessed the unimaginable that day. He carries those memories with him every single day, and we are forever grateful that he is still here because we very easily could have lost him too. Our family didn't just experience a tragedy—we experienced trauma that changed us forever. When I first met the team at Janicek Law, I wasn't just grieving. I was broken. I was a mother trying to survive the unthinkable while helping my surviving son heal from something no child should ever witness. I didn't know if I had the strength to keep fighting. There were so many moments when I wanted to give up. Every deposition, every conversation, every piece of evidence forced me to relive the worst day of my life. I told them I couldn't do it anymore. But they never let me forget why we were fighting. They reminded me that Zayden deserved justice. They reminded me that Zy deserved justice. They believed in my family even when I couldn't believe in myself. What makes Janicek Law different is that this was never just a job to them. They never made me feel like another client or another case number. They knew my children by name. They celebrated Zayden's life. They cried with us, prayed with us, hugged us, encouraged us, and walked beside us through every heartbreaking step. They carried a piece of this burden with us, and I will never forget that. Even after the case was over, they didn't disappear. They still answer my calls. They still help me with paperwork. They still check on me. They still make me feel like my family matters. That's something you cannot fake. That's love. Somewhere along the way, I stopped seeing them as "my attorneys" and started seeing them as family. And I truly believe I have a family for life. No amount of money will ever bring my little boy back. I would trade every penny to hear his laugh one more time. But because of Janicek Law, I have peace knowing that his life mattered, his story was heard, and that they fought for my boys with everything they had. From the deepest part of a mother's heart... thank you. Thank you for loving my children. Thank you for never giving up on us when I wanted to give up myself. Thank you for standing beside us through the darkest chapter of our lives. You gave my family more than legal representation—you gave us hope, dignity, and people we will love for the rest of our lives. You helped a grieving mother find the strength to be the voice her son no longer had. In a world that can feel so unfair, you reminded me that there are still genuinely good people. We love each and every one of you, and we will never forget what you did for Zayden, for Zy, and for us.❤️
  
 
       
   Destiny Sanchez 
 14 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My friend Karen referred us to Janicek law firm and I am so grateful. We worked with cassidy moving forward and she went above and beyond while helping me with my accident case. From the very beginning, she was professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and made a stressful situation much easier to handle. Her dedication, hard work, and attention to detail truly made a difference in my case. I am incredibly grateful for everything she did for me and my family. I would highly recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law Firm, who genuinely cares about clients and fights for the best possible outcome. Thank you cassidy for everything!
  
 
       
   Virginia-Ann Bernal 
 8 July 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After my accident, I felt overwhelmed and had no idea what to do next. Choosing Janicek Law Firm was one of the best decisions I could have made. From the very beginning, Philip Bernal,  Cassidy Muniz, and Karen Rangel took the time to explain the process, answer my questions, and make sure I always knew what to expect. Cassidy and Karen were  absolutely incredible throughout my entire case. They coordinated my medical care, helped with scheduling appointments, communicated with my insurance, and was always available whenever I needed guidance or reassurance. Their compassion and dedication truly made a difficult time so much easier. The entire team worked hard to build my case, keeping me informed every step of the way, and ultimately secured a settlement I was very happy with. More importantly, they gave me the peace of mind to focus on healing instead of worrying about the legal process. I can’t thank Philip, Cassidy, Karen and everyone at Janicek Law Firm enough for their professionalism, kindness, and commitment. If you’re looking for a law firm that genuinely cares about its clients, I highly recommend them. THANK YOU SOO MUCH!!
  
 
       
   Corey Sil 
 29 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mr. Skemp and Gaby took care of everything and made my suit for Wrongful Death as easy as possible. I couldn’t have done any of this with out them! They honored and represented my Mother to the fullest and for that I am greatful! G. Silvas
  
 
       
   Jasub Baez 
 22 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good lawyers .
  
 
       
   Aldo Salinas 
 10 June 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I highly recommend the team at Janicek Law. From the very beginning, they provided outstanding legal service that was both professional and deeply compassionate. The entire staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and they made a complex process feel manageable and stress-free. It’s rare to find a firm that combines such high-level legal expertise with a genuinely friendly, client-focused approach. I am very grateful for their support and would choose them again without hesitation.
  
 
 
 
  
 
   Google rating score: 4.8 of 5, based on 358 reviews

Janicek Law handled my case with such professionalism. I was always kept in the loop about what was going on with my case. Cassidy Muniz is amazing at what she does and I really felt like they actually cared about me and my case. Highly recommend Janicek Law Firm!

I could not be happier with the service and compassion from the Janicek Law Firm. They were friendly, responsive and knowledgeable throughout the entire process. I would give ten stars if I could – They are excellent!

Janicek Law was patient and understanding to my situation – it’s a fight – but they would make my father proud. Thanks you for taking the time to look over my case and speaking up for my family.

Beth and Mona have been truly helpful with our case! They have really done an amazing job. I would highly recommend them to anyone I know.

Incredibly talented and knowledgeable attorneys that will fight negligent nursing homes and bring Justice to the elderly and their families.

I am very happy and pleased with the Janicek Law Firm. I had such a difficult time finding someone to look into my case. The Janicek Law Firm has been very professional and attentive to my questions. They will take the time and review your situation and have been very dedicated in reviewing my case.