There’s no doubt that incidents such as car accidents, motorcycle accidents, pedestrian accidents, bicycle accidents and others can lead to severe injuries, including fractures and broken bones. The severity of these injuries varies, but in many cases, the recovery process can be long and arduous, significantly disrupting victims’ daily lives. The road to healing is often complicated, requiring time, patience, and extensive medical care. During this period, individuals often face not only physical challenges but emotional and financial ones as well.
Fractures, particularly those involving weight-bearing joints such as the hips, knees, or ankles, can be devastating. Severe fractures often require orthopedic surgery, including the placement of plates, screws, or rods to stabilize the bone and promote proper healing. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be necessary to achieve optimal recovery. Even with surgical intervention, fractures in these critical areas can lead to complications such as arthritis and post-traumatic osteoarthritis, causing chronic pain and limited mobility. The risk of joint degeneration is significant, sometimes resulting in the need for joint replacement procedures in the most severe cases. This ongoing physical impairment can have a lasting impact on an individual’s quality of life, making routine activities challenging and affecting their ability to maintain independence.
Moreover, these injuries often have a significant impact on an individual’s work life. The physical limitations can render certain aspects of their job impossible to perform, resulting in lost wages and mounting financial pressure. Many individuals in this situation find themselves having to seek financial support just to make ends meet while they focus on healing. Beyond the physical and financial burdens, the psychological toll can be equally profound. Coping with constant pain, daily limitations, and the uncertainty of what the coming weeks or months may hold can lead to stress, anxiety, and feelings of helplessness.
If you or a loved one are facing the challenges of serious injuries caused by another’s negligence, contact us today. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers are committed to guiding you through the complexities of your case, working diligently to secure the compensation you deserve. Do not let uncertainty stand in your way—reach out now, and let us help you take the first steps toward rebuilding your life.
While any bone or cartilage in the body is susceptible to fractures and breaks, there are several that present more severe complications and may prevent victims from working and otherwise going about their lives:
Skull fractures can have a profound impact on an individual’s cognitive function and overall well-being. These fractures can be classified into several distinct categories, each with its own set of potential complications and long-term sequelae.
A linear skull fracture, for instance, is characterized by a fissure or crack in the skull bone that does not result in any displacement of the osseous structures. While this type of fracture may not necessarily impede mobility, it can precipitate a host of neurological symptoms, including persistent cephalalgias and various manifestations of traumatic brain injury.
Conversely, a depressed skull fracture involves a break in the skull vault where a segment of the bone is displaced inwardly, potentially impinging upon the delicate neural tissue beneath. This type of fracture can engender a panoply of neurological deficits, ranging from cognitive impairment and memory loss to epileptiform activity and seizures, all of which can have a deleterious effect on an individual’s capacity to engage in gainful employment.
Finally, a basilar skull fracture, which occurs when there is a disruption in the integrity of the bones comprising the base of the skull, can lead to a constellation of serious complications, including traumatic brain injury, damage to the cranial nerves, and other severe head injuries that can result in significant cognitive impairment and disability.
Injuries to the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar regions of the spine can have catastrophic consequences for an individual’s mobility, functionality, and quality of life. These fractures, regardless of their precise location, can lead to a cascade of debilitating symptoms and potentially life-altering complications.
A cervical fracture, which involves a break in the vertebrae of the neck, can cause excruciating pain, restricted range of motion, and in severe cases, complete paralysis below the level of the injury. Similarly, a thoracic fracture, located in the upper and middle back, can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and compromised respiratory function due to the proximity of the thoracic spine to the ribcage and lungs. Lumbar fractures, affecting the lower back, can cause intense pain, muscle weakness, and numbness or tingling in the legs, making even simple tasks like walking or standing an arduous challenge.
In the most severe cases, spinal fractures can lead to spinal cord injury, which may necessitate invasive surgical intervention to prevent further damage and preserve any remaining function. Depending on the extent and location of the injury, surgical options may include discectomies, where a portion of a damaged intervertebral disc is removed to alleviate pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, or laminectomies, which involve the removal of a portion of the vertebral bone to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves.
In cases of compression fractures, where the vertebral body collapses due to weakened bone structure, procedures such as kyphoplasty may be necessary to restore height to the affected vertebra and stabilize the spine.
The worst possible outcome of a spinal fracture is complete paralysis below the level of the injury. This devastating condition can occur when the spinal cord is severely compressed, torn, or severed, resulting in a complete loss of motor and sensory function below the site of the trauma. Individuals with paralysis will require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices to manage their condition and maintain any remaining quality of life. In addition to the physical challenges, paralysis can also have profound psychological and emotional consequences, as individuals must adapt to a drastically altered reality and navigate a complex web of medical, financial, and social challenges.
Even in less severe cases, spinal fractures can have a profound impact on an individual’s ability to perform work-related tasks, regardless of whether they have an active or sedentary job. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and reduced strength can make even simple activities, such as sitting at a desk or lifting light objects, an excruciating ordeal. The road to recovery is often long and arduous, requiring extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and rehabilitation to regain even a fraction of the individual’s pre-injury function. The financial burden of medical expenses, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity can be overwhelming, compounding the physical and emotional toll of the injury.
Sustaining a hip or pelvis fracture can be an incredibly traumatic experience, with far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the initial pain and physical limitations. These injuries can fundamentally alter an individual’s life, affecting their ability to work, carry out daily activities, and maintain their overall quality of life.
One of the most common and severe types of hip fractures is a femoral neck fracture, which occurs in the upper portion of the thigh bone, close to the hip joint. This type of fracture almost always requires surgical intervention to repair the damage and stabilize the bone. The surgical procedure may involve the use of metal hardware, such as screws, plates, or rods, to hold the bone fragments in place and promote proper healing. In some cases, a total or partial hip replacement may be necessary to restore function and alleviate pain.
However, the road to recovery following surgery for a femoral neck fracture is often lengthy and challenging. Patients typically require extensive rehabilitation, including physical therapy and occupational therapy, to regain strength, mobility, and independence. They may need to use assistive devices, such as walkers or canes, for an extended period to help them navigate their daily lives while their body heals.
Fractures of the pelvis can be even more devastating, as they often involve significant pain, difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected leg, and in severe cases, internal bleeding. The complex network of blood vessels in the pelvic region makes these injuries particularly dangerous, and prompt medical attention is crucial to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.
Treatment for pelvic fractures may require emergency surgery to control bleeding, repair damaged organs, and stabilize the bone structure. In some instances, external fixation devices may be used to hold the bones in place and facilitate proper healing. The recovery process following a pelvic fracture is often prolonged and requires extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and significant lifestyle adjustments to accommodate the individual’s altered physical capabilities.
The long-term impact of hip and pelvis fractures can be substantial, both physically and emotionally. Many individuals experience chronic pain, reduced mobility, and permanent changes in their gait or posture. These limitations can make even simple tasks, such as walking, sitting, or standing for extended periods, incredibly difficult and painful. For those with physically demanding occupations, a hip or pelvis fracture can be career-ending, forcing them to confront a new reality of limited employment prospects and financial instability.
Even individuals with sedentary jobs may face significant challenges following a hip or pelvis fracture. The pain and discomfort associated with these injuries can hinder their ability to sit for long periods, concentrate on work tasks, and maintain consistent productivity levels. The recovery process often necessitates extensive time away from work, resulting in lost wages and potential job insecurity. Moreover, the psychological impact of a severe injury cannot be overstated, with many individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder as they navigate the challenges of recovery and adapt to their new circumstances.
In the most severe cases, hip and pelvis fractures can lead to life-threatening complications, such as pulmonary embolism or fat embolism syndrome. These conditions require immediate and intensive medical intervention and may result in permanent disability or even death.
The path to recovery for individuals with hip and pelvis fractures is often arduous, involving multiple surgeries, months of rehabilitation, and a gradual process of relearning basic skills and adapting to a new reality. The financial burden of medical expenses, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity can be immense, further compounding the physical and emotional challenges faced by the injured individual.
Navigating the complexities of the legal system during this difficult time can be overwhelming, which is why seeking the guidance of an experienced Hamilton personal injury lawyer is essential. An experienced injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, advocate on your behalf, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for your suffering, lost wages, and diminished quality of life.
Knee fractures can be among the most severe and life-altering injuries an individual can sustain, with the potential to cause long-term pain, disability, and a profound impact on daily life. While there are several types of knee fractures, some of the most serious include fractures of the distal femur (the lower end of the thighbone), patella (kneecap), and tibial plateau (the upper surface of the shinbone).
Distal femur fractures often result from high-energy trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents or falls from height, and can be particularly challenging to treat due to the complex anatomy of the knee joint. These fractures may involve extensive damage to the bone, cartilage, and surrounding soft tissues, requiring surgical intervention to restore alignment and stability. Treatment often involves open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) or, in some cases, external fixation to support the bone during healing. Patella fractures, while less common, can also be debilitating, as the kneecap plays a crucial role in the extensor mechanism of the knee. These fractures may require surgical repair or even removal of the patella, depending on the severity and location of the injury.
Tibial plateau fractures, as previously mentioned, can be particularly complex and challenging to treat. These fractures involve the weight-bearing surface of the knee joint and can cause significant damage to the bone, cartilage, and surrounding soft tissues. Surgical intervention is often necessary to reconstruct the joint surface, restore alignment, and stabilize the bone, using techniques such as ORIF or external fixation. However, even with successful surgical treatment, patients may face a range of complications and long-term consequences.
Regardless of the specific type of knee fracture, patients often face a lengthy and arduous recovery process, involving extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation to regain strength, range of motion, and function. The damage to the cartilage and joint surface caused by these injuries can lead to the development of post-traumatic arthritis, a condition characterized by chronic pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. In some cases, the injury may be so severe that a total knee replacement may be necessary to alleviate pain and restore quality of life.
The emotional and psychological impact of a severe knee fracture cannot be overstated, as individuals may face a profound sense of loss, frustration, and uncertainty as they adapt to their new reality. The financial strain of medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing care can further compound the challenges faced by these patients and their families.
While some fractures may heal with minimal intervention, others can be more severe, requiring extensive medical treatment and a more extended recovery period. The most severe kinds of fractures may also require surgery and various forms of pain management and rehabilitation. Some of the most severe types of fractures include:
This occurs when the broken bone pierces through the skin, creating an open wound. Open fractures are particularly dangerous because they expose the bone and surrounding tissue to the environment, increasing the risk of infection – thus making the injury more complex to treat. Due to the potential for complications, open fractures often require immediate medical intervention, including surgery, to clean the wound and properly align the bone for healing.
Comminuted fractures occur when the bone shatters into three or more pieces. These fractures are often the result of high-impact trauma, such as a fall from a significant height or a severe car accident. These fractures can be challenging to treat, as the multiple bone fragments must be carefully realigned and stabilized for proper healing.
This can occur when a bone is subjected to a direct blow or high-impact force. The bone breaks in a clean, straight line across its width in a transverse fracture. These fractures can be particularly painful and may require surgery to ensure proper alignment and healing. These can occur anywhere but are more common in longer bones, such as in the shins.
Oblique fractures are also considered serious, as they involve a break at an angle across the bone. These fractures can be caused by a twisting force or a combination of bending and compression. A good example of this is if a skier falls and their ski twists, it can cause an oblique fracture in the leg. Oblique fractures can be more challenging to treat than transverse fractures because the angled break makes it harder to align the bone fragments correctly.
Avulsion fractures occur when a piece of bone is torn away from the main bone by a tendon or ligament. They are often the result of sudden, powerful muscle contractions or extreme force applied to the affected area. For example, if a runner suddenly pushes off a starting block too fast, they may sustain an avulsion fracture in the heel bone where the Achilles tendon is attached. Avulsion fractures may require surgical intervention to reattach the bone fragment.
Fractures that occur in load-bearing joints, such as the hips, knees, and ankles, can be particularly serious due to the potential for long-term complications. These joints are crucial for mobility and bear significant weight and stress during daily activities. When a fracture occurs in a load-bearing joint, it can damage the articular cartilage that covers the ends of the bones, allowing them to glide smoothly against each other. Unlike other tissues in the body, cartilage cannot regenerate and heal itself. As a result, damage to the cartilage can lead to the development of osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that causes pain, stiffness, and reduced function in the affected joint.
For example, if a person suffers a severe fracture of the knee joint, such as a tibial plateau fracture, the damage to the cartilage can increase their risk of developing knee osteoarthritis later in life. This can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and a decreased quality of life. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that joint replacement surgery becomes necessary to alleviate pain and restore function.
The need for joint replacement can cause its own issues even when the fracture has healed. Joint replacement surgery will require more time off work and therapy to help the individual re-adjust to life post-replacement. If joint replacement becomes necessary due to an injury sustained in an accident, this can be considered in your pursuit of benefits and compensation. You can discuss this with your Hamilton personal injury lawyer, who can help you understand your rights and what you may be entitled to.
When dealing with severe and profound fractures or broken bones, various treatments and surgeries may be necessary to promote healing, alleviate pain, and restore function. The specific treatment plan will depend on the injury’s location, type, and severity.
That said, there are some common treatments and surgeries available for severe fractures and broken bones:
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) is a surgical procedure used to repair and stabilize severe bone fractures.
Open Reduction refers to the first step of the procedure, where an orthopedic surgeon makes an incision at the fracture site to realign the broken bone fragments into their proper positions.
Internal Fixation involves the second step, where the surgeon uses medical hardware—such as screws, metal plates, rods, or wires—to hold the bone pieces together. This hardware remains inside the body, ensuring the bone stays adequately aligned during the healing process.
ORIF is commonly used for fractures that cannot heal correctly with just casting or splinting, particularly those that are complex, displaced, or involve joints. This approach promotes stability, facilitates proper healing, and allows for earlier mobility in the affected area.
External Fixation involves placing metal pins or screws into the bone fragments on either side of the fracture. These pins are then connected to an external frame that stabilizes and holds the bones in the correct position while they heal. This method is often used for fractures with extensive soft tissue damage or when internal fixation is not immediately possible.
Closed Reduction and Internal Fixation (CRIF) is a minimally invasive approach where the surgeon realigns the broken bone fragments without making a large incision. Once the bone is aligned, internal hardware like screws or rods is inserted through small incisions to stabilize the fracture.
Intramedullary Nailing involves inserting a metal rod, known as an intramedullary nail, into the marrow canal of a long bone, such as the femur or tibia. The rod extends across the fracture site, providing internal support and alignment for the bone as it heals. This procedure is commonly used for fractures of the femur, tibia, and humerus.
Bone Grafting is used in cases where a fracture results in bone loss or when there is a need to stimulate bone healing. The procedure involves transplanting bone tissue from another part of the patient’s body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft) to the fracture site. The graft helps promote new bone growth and provides structural support.
Joint Replacement may be necessary for fractures involving the joint surfaces, such as hip fractures. In this procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage are replaced with artificial components. Hip and shoulder replacements are examples of this approach, commonly used when the joint cannot be preserved.
Hemiarthroplasty is a surgical procedure used primarily for hip fractures, where only part of the joint (usually the femoral head) is replaced with a prosthesis. This serves as a less extensive alternative to total joint replacement.
Percutaneous Pinning is typically used for smaller fractures, especially in the hand, wrist, or foot. The surgeon inserts pins or wires through the skin to hold the bone fragments in place, allowing for proper alignment during healing. These pins are often removed once the bone has healed.
Arthroscopic-Assisted Fracture Repair is a minimally invasive technique that uses an arthroscope (a small camera) to guide the surgeon in repairing certain fractures, such as those around the joints. This approach results in smaller incisions, reduced tissue damage, and quicker recovery.
Dynamic Hip Screw (DHS) Fixation is specifically used for fractures in the proximal femur (hip fractures). A metal plate is fixed along the femur’s side, with a large screw inserted into the femoral neck and head to provide stable fixation.
Plate and Screw Fixation involves attaching metal plates to the surface of the bone with screws to stabilize the fracture. This method is commonly used for fractures of the forearm, wrist, and clavicle.
Spinal Fusion is a type of surgery often recommended for fractures or injuries affecting the vertebrae in the spine. During a spinal fusion, the damaged vertebrae are joined using bone grafts, metal implants, or a combination. This procedure helps to stabilize the spine, reduce pain, and improve function. For example, if someone suffers a compression fracture of the lumbar spine (lower back) due to a fall, a spinal fusion may be necessary to prevent further damage and alleviate chronic pain.
Laminectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone called the lamina. This surgery is often performed to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves caused by a fracture, herniated disc, or spinal stenosis. By removing the lamina, the surgeon can create more space for the spinal cord and nerves, reducing pain and improving function. For instance, if a person experiences a burst fracture of the thoracic spine (mid-back) that compresses the spinal cord, a laminectomy may be necessary to decompress the spinal cord and prevent further damage.
Discectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing a damaged or herniated disc from the spine. This surgery is often recommended when a fracture or injury causes a disc to rupture or bulge, putting pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. The surgeon can relieve pain and improve function by removing the damaged disc. For example, suppose a person suffers a traumatic herniation of a lumbar disc due to a car accident. In that case, a discectomy may be necessary to alleviate severe leg pain and restore mobility.
Vertebroplasty/Kyphoplasty are minimally invasive procedures are often used to treat compression fractures of the spine, particularly in the thoracic and lumbar regions. During a vertebroplasty, the surgeon injects a special cement into the fractured vertebra to stabilize the bone and reduce pain. Kyphoplasty involves inflating a balloon inside the fractured vertebra to restore height before injecting the cement. These procedures can help to alleviate pain and improve mobility in patients with osteoporotic compression fractures or those caused by traumatic injuries.
Artificial Disc Replacement is a surgical procedure involves removing and replacing a damaged or degenerated disc with an artificial disc implant. Artificial disc replacement is often recommended for patients with severe disc damage or degeneration that causes chronic pain and limited mobility. Replacing the damaged disc with an artificial one can help alleviate pain and restore motion and function to the area. For example, if a person suffers a severe cervical spine (neck) injury that damages a disc and causes chronic arm pain, an artificial disc replacement may be necessary to improve mobility and restore function in the arm.
Chronic Pain Management in some cases, severe fractures or broken bones can lead to chronic pain that persists even after the injury has healed. Chronic pain management may involve a combination of medications, physical therapy, and interventional procedures such as nerve blocks or spinal cord stimulation. These treatments aim to alleviate pain, improve function, and help patients cope with the ongoing effects of their injury. For instance, if a person suffers a complex pelvic fracture that leads to chronic nerve pain, a comprehensive chronic pain management plan may be necessary to help them manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life, even after the initial injury has improved and healed.
Recovering from a severe fracture or broken bone can be a long and challenging process, but with the proper treatment and support, most people can achieve a successful outcome. If you or a loved one has suffered a severe fracture, it’s essential to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers have a strong network of qualified professionals who can help create a recovery plan for you while helping you secure the necessary support and resources to receive the treatment you need.
Beyond the physical pain and limitations, these injuries can take a significant toll on a person’s mental health and emotional well-being. It’s common for individuals to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety as they navigate the challenges of recovery and adapt to a new reality.
One of the primary reasons for the onset of depression and anxiety is the constant pain that often accompanies severe fractures. Chronic pain can be exhausting and demoralizing, making it difficult to find joy or motivation in daily life. The pain may disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability, which can further exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety.
Moreover, severe fractures can significantly limit a person’s independence and ability to perform daily tasks. Suddenly relying on others for basic needs like dressing, bathing, and preparing meals can be emotionally challenging and lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration. The loss of autonomy and control over one’s life can contribute to a sense of despair and hopelessness.
The uncertainty surrounding the future can also take a psychological toll on those recovering from severe fractures. Questions about the extent of the injury, the length of the recovery process, and the potential for long-term complications can weigh heavily on a person’s mind. Will they be able to return to work? Will they ever regain full mobility and function? These uncertainties can fuel anxiety and contribute to a sense of overwhelming stress.
Additionally, the isolation and social disconnection that often accompany severe fractures can further compound feelings of depression and anxiety. Being unable to participate in usual activities, hobbies, or social events can lead to loneliness and feeling left behind. This isolation can make it harder to maintain a positive outlook and find the support needed to cope with the emotional challenges of recovery.
If symptoms of depression and anxiety persist, it’s wise to seek treatment for this, as well. Our Hamilton personal injury lawyers can connect you with the best mental health professionals specializing in cases like yours.
If someone has caused or contributed to your serious orthopedic injuries, you may have the right to file a lawsuit for damages.
Serious orthopedic injuries, such as fractures of the hip, pelvis, or knee, can result in significant pain, disability, and long-term consequences that profoundly impact your quality of life.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, surgical intervention, and lengthy rehabilitation, leading to substantial financial burdens in the form of medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing care costs. Furthermore, the physical and emotional trauma associated with these injuries can cause immeasurable suffering and a profound sense of loss. If another party’s negligence or wrongdoing has caused or contributed to your injuries, you may be entitled to seek damages through a personal injury lawsuit.
By working with an experienced Hamilton personal injury lawyer, you can explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve to help you navigate the challenges ahead and rebuild your life in the wake of a devastating orthopedic injury.
The following are some areas of compensation which can be explored:
Pain and Suffering: otherwise known as non-pecuniary general damages, refers to compensation for non-monetary losses resulting from an injury, focusing on aspects such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of amenities. Unlike special damages, which cover specific, quantifiable expenses like medical costs and lost income, general damages are more subjective and aim to address the overall impact on the individual’s quality of life. General damages are subject to a cap established by the Supreme Court, with the maximum amount adjusted for inflation.
Past Loss of Income: represents the financial setback caused by the inability to work after an injury. It’s about the paychecks that were never cashed, the bonuses missed, and the opportunities lost during the recovery period. From the day of the incident to the present, it captures what could have been earned had you not been hurt —whether it’s salary, commissions, or benefits.
Future Loss of Income: due to an injury refers to the projected earnings an individual will miss out on because their injury has impaired their ability to work in the future. This loss encompasses the anticipated reduction in income resulting from decreased working hours, the inability to return to the previous job or career, or the reduced ability to pursue new job opportunities. Calculating this loss involves considering various factors, including the person’s age, education, skill level, career trajectory, and the severity and long-term impact of the injury. It aims to compensate for the financial setback the injured party will face, ensuring they are not left in a disadvantaged economic position for years to come.
Loss of Housekeeping Capacity: The Ontario Court of Appeal recognizes the loss of housekeeping and home maintenance capacity as a legitimate compensable loss in personal injury cases. This type of loss arises when an injured person can no longer perform household tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, gardening, or general maintenance, due to their injury. The court considers this a valuable contribution to one’s quality of life and household, akin to economic loss.
Compensation for this loss can include the cost of hiring someone to perform these tasks, the reduced capacity to manage one’s household, or the increased difficulty in doing so. The court generally assesses this loss by considering factors such as the injured person’s age, the extent and duration of their injuries, their pre-accident involvement in household activities, and the expected need for outside assistance in the future. The compensation reflects both past and future limitations in housekeeping and home maintenance capacities.
Future care costs: refer to the anticipated expenses for ongoing medical, rehabilitation, and support services that an injured individual will need due to their injuries. In the context of motor vehicle accidents in Ontario, these costs are initially addressed through OHIP and no-fault benefits, known as Statutory Accident Benefits, which provide coverage for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and attendant care regardless of who was at fault. However, these benefits have limits that, once exhausted, may leave individuals needing additional funding for their ongoing care.
When SABS limits are reached, or if the necessary care extends beyond what OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) covers, claimants may seek compensation for future care costs through a tort claim against the at-fault party. These costs can include a wide range of services, such as long-term medical treatments, rehabilitation services (occupational therapy, speech therapy), home assistive devices, mobility aids, attendant care, PSWs, transportation costs, etc.
In non-motor vehicle accidents, future care costs follow a similar principle. The injured party can seek compensation for expenses beyond what any basic health coverage, like OHIP, provides.
Courts will typically assess these costs based on expert evidence, including medical professionals, therapists, and life care planners, who outline the specific care requirements and associated expenses over the individual’s lifetime.
This compensation is intended to ensure the injured person has the necessary resources to manage their injuries effectively when the initial insurance benefits have run out.
If you’ve suffered serious orthopedic injuries, engaging the services of a Hamilton personal injury lawyer can be a crucial step in securing the compensation you deserve following an accident or injury. To ensure you find the most suitable legal representation for your case, it is essential to conduct thorough research and carefully consider your options.
Begin by seeking referrals from trusted sources, such as family, friends, or colleagues who have previously enlisted the help of a personal injury lawyer in Hamilton. Their first-hand experiences and recommendations can provide valuable insights into the quality of service and expertise offered by specific law firms or individual lawyers.
Google reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation and credibility of a business. They provide potential clients with firsthand insights into the quality of services, professionalism, and client satisfaction that a company offers. A collection of positive reviews can significantly enhance trust, influencing the decision-making process for new clients seeking services. Moreover, a steady stream of favorable reviews boosts search engine rankings, increasing visibility to a broader audience. In today’s digital age, Google reviews are not just testimonials; they are a vital element of a business’s online presence and success.
In addition to referrals, conduct an online search to identify reputable Hamilton personal injury lawyers who specialize in cases similar to yours. Visit their websites to review their professional backgrounds, educational qualifications, and notable case results. Look for personal injury lawyers in Hamilton with a proven track record of success in handling personal injury claims and a deep understanding of the local legal landscape.
To further assess their suitability, schedule initial consultations with potential lawyers to discuss your case in detail. These meetings offer an opportunity to evaluate their communication skills, demeanor, and overall approach to your situation. Prepare a list of questions beforehand to ensure you gather all the necessary information to make an informed decision. By carefully considering referrals, conducting thorough research, and engaging in personal consultations, you can identify the Hamilton personal injury lawyer best equipped to advocate for your rights and help you navigate the complex legal process ahead.
In the most severe cases, fractures can lead to outcomes far beyond initial pain and inconvenience. When bones are shattered or severely misaligned, complex surgeries like ORIF, external fixation, or intramedullary nailing may be required to stabilize the injury. These interventions, while necessary, come with their own set of challenges, including long recovery periods, physical rehabilitation, and the looming risk of complications. For some, fractures involving critical joints may deteriorate over time, ultimately necessitating joint replacement surgeries that further disrupt one’s life.
The road to recovery can be fraught with setbacks, including chronic pain, loss of function, and mobility restrictions that may prevent a return to previous employment or daily activities. Financial burdens compound this suffering, as lost wages and ongoing care costs quickly mount. Moreover, even after the fractures have healed, individuals may be left with permanent scarring, reduced strength, or long-term disabilities that alter the course of their lives. The physical and emotional toll of such injuries is profound, with impacts that extend well beyond the initial fracture.
We understand the pain, stress, and anxiety that come with severe, disruptive injuries. We’re here to help and guide you through the process, alleviating the burden and handling the complex legal process while you focus on healing and recovering.
Call our Hamilton hearing personal injury lawyers today, no matter where you are in Ontario, at 1-844-LALANDE or local throughout Southern Ontario at 905-333-8888. We are here to answer any questions you may have. Alternatively, you can contact us confidentially online by filling out a contact form, and we will get back to you without delay.
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The average settlement for a broken bone injury in Ontario varies depending on the severity of the injury, the impact on daily life, and the level of negligence involved. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you determine a fair settlement amount.
In Ontario, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for a fracture or broken bone injury. However, it’s essential to consult with a Hamilton personal injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you meet the necessary deadlines.
Various types of fractures or broken bone injuries may be eligible for compensation, including hip fractures, pelvis fractures, knee fractures, and more. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you determine if your specific injury is eligible for compensation.
To prove liability in a broken bone injury case, you’ll need to demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence or wrongdoing caused your injury. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you gather evidence and build a strong case.
Yes, you may be able to claim compensation for lost wages due to a broken bone injury. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you calculate your lost wages and ensure you receive fair compensation.
The time it takes to settle a broken bone injury claim varies depending on the complexity of the case and the level of negotiation required. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the process and ensure a fair settlement.
Yes, you may be able to claim compensation for chronic pain resulting from a broken bone injury. A Hamilton personal injury lawyer can help you demonstrate the impact of chronic pain on your daily life and ensure you receive fair compensation.
When choosing a Hamilton personal injury lawyer, consider their experience with broken bone injury cases, their reputation, and their willingness to take your case to trial if necessary. A good lawyer will provide a free consultation and help you understand your options.
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My brother ended up paralyzed after a car accident and Lalande did SO MUCH to help get things straight from him getting out of the hospital to all his care for life. We are so grateful for Matt & Heather. I don’t know how my family could have done this without them.
