Bone fractures after a car accident are often dismissed as minor or mistaken for bruises or muscle strain. But without proper diagnosis and treatment, these injuries can worsen and lead to long-term complications.
At Richmond Vona, we know how easy it is to downplay pain after a crash, especially when you’re overwhelmed or unsure if treatment will be covered. As trusted New York car accident lawyers with over $200 million recovered for clients, we’re here to help you understand why early treatment matters and how legal action may cover the costs of your recovery. When the unexpected happens, expect Richmond Vona.
Common Car Accident Injuries to Watch Out For
Fractures from car accidents are often overlooked in the chaos that follows a crash. Some may seem like soreness or bruising at first, but when left untreated, they can lead to long-term complications and serious pain. If you’re unsure whether to seek care, understanding the most common fracture types can help you make an informed decision.
Fractured Sternum
Sternum fractures are commonly caused by seat belt compression during impact. They’re often mistaken for muscle strain or surface bruising, but can make breathing painful and may take weeks to heal. Without proper treatment, a fractured sternum can limit mobility and increase the risk of complications.
“A fractured sternum is a serious injury that can impact every part of your daily life. Breathing, moving, even sleeping can become painful and difficult. Recovery often requires time off work, careful monitoring, and sometimes ongoing medical care. If you’ve suffered a fractured sternum in an accident, it’s important to take your healing seriously, and to know that you may be entitled to compensation for the setbacks you’re facing. At Richmond Vona, we help clients understand their options and fight for the support they need to move forward.”
– John Richmond, Co-Founder and CEO

Rib Fractures
Airbags and seat belts can also cause rib fractures. These injuries can be painful with each breath, laugh, or movement. If ignored, rib fractures may lead to punctured lungs or other internal damage. What feels like bruised ribs may be something more serious.
Tibia and Fibula Fractures
Fractures to the lower leg bones can result from dashboard impact or vehicle intrusion. Swelling, bruising, and an inability to stand or bear weight are warning signs that should never be ignored.
Femur Fractures
A femur fracture is typically a high-impact injury and often considered a medical emergency. This type of break usually requires surgery and extensive recovery time. Immediate medical attention is crucial for these types of fractures.
Spinal Fractures
Spinal injuries, including compression fractures or vertebral breaks, can result from even moderate collisions. These injuries can worsen significantly over time if not diagnosed early, potentially leading to chronic pain or mobility issues.
Arm and Clavicle Fractures
Drivers and passengers often instinctively brace for impact with their hands or arms, leading to broken bones in the arms, wrists, or collarbone. These fractures can interfere with everyday tasks and may require surgery depending on the injury.
If you’re dealing with pain after a car accident, a prompt medical evaluation could make all the difference. A New York car accident lawyer at Richmond Vona can help you understand your options and fight for the support you need to recover.
The Importance of Prompt Medical Treatment for Car Accident Fractures
It’s easy to delay a hospital visit after a crash, especially if you’re unsure of the severity of your injuries. But with bone fractures from car accidents, waiting too long to seek medical attention can significantly increase your risk of long-term complications.
Fractures can worsen quickly without proper care. A cracked rib can lead to a punctured lung. A small spinal fracture can lead to chronic pain. What seems manageable today could become life-altering tomorrow.
Accurate diagnosis often requires imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans, not just for peace of mind, but to create essential medical records documenting your injury. These records can be vital for both your recovery and any potential legal claim. While urgent care clinics may provide initial care, many lack the tools to fully detect fractures and often refer patients to the ER or specialists. And although hospital visits and tests may seem costly or inconvenient, delaying care can jeopardize your health and weaken your legal case.
If a fracture turns into a more serious condition due to delayed care, or if a preventable injury results in loss of life and a need for a New York wrongful death lawyer, Richmond Vona can help families like yours understand their options and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Recovering from Bone Fractures After a Car Crash
Recovering from a car accident fracture often involves rest, immobilization, pain management, and physical therapy. Depending on the severity, some injuries may require surgery or long-term rehab.
Even after the bone heals, lingering pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility can interfere with daily life. Extended recovery periods can also take an emotional toll, leading to frustration, anxiety, or depression.
At Richmond Vona, we understand that recovery isn’t just physical. Our team helps you pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of your injury, because you deserve more than just a quick fix.
“When someone suffers a fracture after a car accident, the challenges go far beyond the initial injury. Recovery can be long and painful, often requiring surgery, rehabilitation, and time away from work or family. Even simple tasks can suddenly become overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to know your rights and to have a team in your corner who understands what you’re going through. At Richmond Vona, we’re here to make sure you get the care and compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing."
– John Richmond, Co-Founder and CEO

Don’t Let Medical Costs Stop You From Treating a Car Accident Injury
It’s no secret that many people skip ER visits, imaging tests, or follow-up care after a crash because they’re worried about the cost or believe they don’t have the time. But when it comes to fractures from car accidents, delaying treatment can put your health and future at risk.
At Richmond Vona, our New York car accident lawyers help clients pursue compensation to cover medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation, and more. We know how overwhelming the recovery process can be, especially when finances are tight. That’s why we stand by the R/V Guarantee: open communication, full transparency, and personalized support from start to finish. When the unexpected happens, expect Richmond Vona.
Speak With a New York Car Accident Lawyer About Your Injury
If you’re unsure about what your next steps should be after a car accident injury, consider speaking with a lawyer who can help you get the care and compensation you deserve. Injuries that seem minor can easily turn into long-term problems if left untreated.
At Richmond Vona, you’re more than a case number. Our team treats every client like family, offering honest guidance and ongoing support through every stage of your recovery. We’ll help you understand the compensation you may be entitled to and work to make sure medical bills, lost income, and other damages don’t fall on your shoulders.
If you have questions about fractures from car accidents, call us today at 716-500-5678 or contact Richmond Vona, LLC online to request a free consultation.