A guide to making a No Win No Fee compound fracture claim
Compound fractures are a category of fracture where the skin is pierced, such that the bone sticks out through the skin. Open wounds carry a significant risk of infection, so compound fractures are considered to be a serious medical incident. There is also an increased risk of shock and tissue damage associated with this type of break.
If an infection develops, there may be problems with bone healing. In many cases, surgery is needed to stabilise the bone and repair the muscles, often involving the use of pins. There may also be an ongoing need for physiotherapy to restore mobility in the affected area.
Anyone who has suffered a compound fracture as a result of an accident that was not their fault may be eligible to claim compensation.
How could I be subjected to a compound fracture?
The workplace is the most common location for this type of injury to occur. For example, a worker could trap their hand or arm in heavy machinery, causing broken bones and crush injuries. Compound fractures may also be sustained in impact accidents such as road traffic accidents, sporting accidents and falls from height.
Incorrect or delayed treatment of a compound fracture can also lead to complications. Examples include the onset of infections such as MRSA or the bones not knitting together properly, causing permanent weakness. Where an injury has been made worse by substandard medical treatment, a claim may be brought in medical negligence.
Impact of compound fracture injuries
Compound fractures can result in permanent, disabling injuries such as:
- Scarring from surgical intervention
- Reduced mobility in the affected area
- Difficulty holding objects or operating machinery depending on the site of the injury
- Increased risk of developing arthritis in the future
As an initial step, an injury lawyer will arrange for an independent medical examination to assess the extent and severity of the injuries and their likely future impact. This medical report, and the solicitor's assessment, will form the basis of a compensation claim.
How much compensation will I receive?
Each case is assessed on its merits by reference to the seriousness of the injury and any permanent disability or impairment caused.
Compensation for the pain and suffering experienced by the Claimant is calculated by reference to a sliding scale published by the Judicial College. Compensation ranges from a few hundred to many thousands of pounds depending on the severity of the compound fracture. For example, a moderate compound fracture of the foot may receive a payout of between £8,000 and £15,000 depending on the seriousness of the fracture and the rehabilitation period.
Personal injury compensation can also be claimed for:
- Medical expenses
- The cost of mobility aids
- Travel expenses
- Loss of earnings
- Expenses related to ongoing care and accommodation.
Starting a guaranteed no win - no fee compound fracture compensation claim with Quittance
A no win no fee contract ( referred to as a Conditional Fee Agreement) is entered into between a claimant and a PI lawyer.
The Conditional Fee Agreement is essentially the terms under which the solicitor represents the client.
The agreement lays out what the lawyers will do and how they will be paid if the legal case is ultimately successful.
If you decide to choose Quittance for your compound fracture compensation claim there will be no hidden or extra costs in the terms and conditions , no up-front fees and the reassurance that you will not be financially out of pocket.
What should you do next?
Making the right decision for you depends on getting the right information. Get your questions answered before you choose a lawyer.
If you would like to know more before calling, try our FAQ pages.
Compare injury solicitors
Choosing the right solicitor can have a big impact on the amount of compensation you actually get to keep.
For a clear idea of what a difference the right personal injury lawyer will make to the amount of compensation you keep, see our compensation calculator.
Alternatively you can start your claim online or phone 0800 612 7456.
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