Protecting yourself after an ulnar fracture caused by a car accident

Treatment for ulnar fractures from a car accidentA fracture to the ulnar after a car accident is a serious injury

An ulnar fracture caused by the impact of a car accident is a serious injury. The ulnar and radius are the two bones of the forearm. A break in one or both can lead to a lengthy treatment that will hinder daily activity. The American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons describes the treatment as likely to need surgery. In that case, internal fixation devices such as screws or plates may be used to keep the bones in place while healing. A cast will be used to keep the broken bones in place to heal, and may be needed for two to six weeks. In the worst case scenario, the surgery may even have to be redone.

Long term effects of an ulnar fracture from a car accident

If the injury to the dominant arm can be incredibly frustrating because everyday tasks such as eating, writing, using a phone, or even using the restroom now become difficult or impossible while you recover. The structure of the radius and ulna allows the hand to rotate. This is the movement used to open jars or bring a cell phone screen into view.  It may be a period of months before the bone can bear weight, and physical therapy may be needed to fully recover.

Costs of treating an ulnar fracture from a car accident

Treating a ulnar fracture is complicated, involving many separate costs. In most cases, several medical providers will need to be paid for this treatment. For example, you may get a bill from the surgeon, the surgical facilities, the radiologist, and the anesthesiologist. There will also be follow up appointments with an orthopedist to ensure the bone is healing properly and you reach the best possible recovery outcome.

If your insurance covers you, your payment will depend on the specific terms of your coverage. However, if your injury was caused by a third party, some insurance companies reserve the right not to pay and may file a lien for repayment. This is called a right of subrogation. If you are working with the other party’s insurance, any money promised to you may be intercepted by companies that file a lien as payment for their bills. These liens can result in you pocketing nothing if not handled correctly.

How an accident injury attorney helps with an ulnar fracture caused by a car accident

An experienced accident attorney can take the following actions for a client:

  • Negotiate with providers to reduce the amount of medical bills and liens
  • Ensure you have the correct documentation for holding the insurance company accountable
  • Ensure the insurance company takes everything into account for your claim’s value
  • Proactively communicate with your health insurance to identify your contractual repayment obligations so they don’t take you by surprise
  • Ensure you can access the treatment you need while managing costs
  • Ensure the insurance company takes future treatment costs into account
  • Work to help you get treatment on a lien if necessary
  • Present the true long-term and short-term life impact

If you are concerned with healthcare costs associated with your car accident, accessing treatment, or making sure the insurance company is taking your injuries into account, Vrana Law Firm offers free consultations with an attorney to discuss your situation.

To schedule a free consultation, call us at 480-359-6002

Kel Vrana and Chandra Lehn are personal injury attorneys with experience handling serious injuries such as ulnar fractures. If you have been in a car accident with severe injuries in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Gilbert or elsewhere in the East Valley we can meet you in our Tempe office or over the phone.