Knee injuries caused by car accidents can lead to pain and immobility with costly and extensive medical care. The driver whose negligence led to the accident and your knee injuries can be held financially liable for your medical bills and other monetary damages. You can recover lost wages, pain and suffering, and additional expenses and losses.
You do not have to pursue damages on your own. A personal injury lawyer can help you file an insurance claim or lawsuit. Your lawyer can explain the steps involved in your case, the statute of limitations in your state, and the potential timeline between accident and resolution.
Knee Injuries and the Car Accidents That Cause Them
Depending on where you are seated in the car and the point of impact between vehicles, your knees can sustain serious damage. Front- and side-impact accidents can injure your knees if you are the driver or front-seat passenger. Even a rear-end collision can drive your knees forcefully into the back seat or dashboard, resulting in injuries.
Knee injuries can range in severity and recovery time. Cuts and scrapes may only cause mild and temporary discomfort. However, a more serious injury can require care that ranges from stitches and staples to surgical intervention. Since knee injuries can impede your usual immobility, you might also require physical therapy and rehabilitation. Your health care team will recommend a course of treatment designed to get you back on your feet.
Contusions, Abrasions, and Lacerations
When the blunt force of a car accident impacts your knees, you can end up with bruising and cuts. Less severe cases might require cleaning, sanitizing, and other methods of topical care. Deep bruises, cuts, and wounds might require stitches and deep wound cleaning for optimal recovery.
Fractures, Breaks, and Tears
A car accident can also cause your knee or kneecap to fracture or break. You might experience a torn meniscus, requiring you to wear a brace or undergo surgery. According to Cleveland Clinic guidelines, if your meniscus tear is severe enough, it might require full or partial removal by a surgeon, which can lengthen your recovery time.
Bursitis
The joints of your knees contain fluid-filled sacs that cushion motion and movement. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, if these sacs rupture or are damaged, it can result in a limited range of motion, pain with every movement, and possible infection. A bursitis treatment plan can include antibiotics to resolve an infection, physical and occupational therapy to restore mobility, and surgery if other treatments do not provide relief.
Dislocated Kneecap
The trauma of a car accident can cause your kneecap to dislocate or migrate from its normal position. Also known as patellar dislocations, Cleveland Clinic recommends manipulating the bones back into their proper place. Treatment would also include pain control, therapy, and rehabilitation. Surgery may be necessary if manipulation is ineffective, blood vessels and nerves are damaged, and muscles and ligaments are torn.
Recover the Cost of Your Injury-Related Medical Care
The at-fault driver is responsible for your ongoing medical care after a car accident. A personal injury lawyer can help compile your medical records and bills to ensure your treatment plan is covered. You can request damages to cover medical care for your injured knee, including:
- Assistive medical devices until you recover, like knee braces, canes, and wheelchairs
- Physical and occupational therapy to restore range of motion
- Prescription and over-the-counter pain medications
A personal injury lawyer can ensure your evidence file contains proof of the injuries’ severity, your prescribed treatment protocol, and their known and anticipated costs.
Recover Damages From Your Injuries
In addition to your range of medical care, a car accident can lead to other damages affecting your life. For example, knee injuries that make movement difficult or impossible can prevent you from going to work and earning your usual income. The at-fault driver will be responsible to cover your ongoing loss of wages. You can also request monetary recovery for:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional trauma
- Diminished quality of life
- Property damage or destruction
In addition to detailing your damages, your lawyer will also explain the statute of limitations in your state and how it applies to your case. With sufficient notice, he can file your case within the allotted time and represent you in court if a fair settlement is not forthcoming.
Your Initial Consultation Is Free
Were you or someone you love injured in a recent car accident? If you suffered knee injuries, our car accident lawyer can help you pursue the negligent driver for recoverable damages. Contact one of our consultation team members at D. Miller & Associates, PLLC™ by calling 1 (855) PRO-LAWYERS today.
