Denver Bicycle Accident: Treatment for a Broken Tibia

The tibia, or shinbone, is the second longest bone in the body and bears a huge amount of body weight. One of the common ways a tibia fracture can occur is with a high-impact collision, such as in a bicycle accident.

When only a slight hairline fracture occurs in an accident, the cyclist may not even immediately know that it’s broken. In serious fractures, the break is unmistakable. The bone may protrude through the skin or the cyclist may be unable to put any weight on the injured leg. The treatment for a broken tibia largely depends on the type and severity of the fracture.

Types of Tibia Fractures

The force of the impact in a bicycle accident and exactly where along the shinbone the impact occurred can determine the severity of the fracture.

There are numerous categories of tibia fractures, some of which are discussed below.

  • Stable fracture – if there is a relatively clean break and the bones haven’t shifted, the doctors label it as a stable fracture.
  • Traverse and oblique fractures – traverse fractures are those characterized by a horizontal break and oblique fractures, often considered unstable, are those with a diagonal break across the tibia.
  • Spiral fractures – the fracture occurs when the cyclist’s leg was suddenly and violently twisted, the fracture is considered a spiral fracture.
  • Comminuted fracture – this type of injury is a serious multi-fracture. It occurs when the tibia breaks into three or more pieces.
  • Compound fracture – in a compound fracture, the break is so severe that the bone pierces the skin.

Types of Treatment for a Broken Tibia the Doctor May Order

A broken shinbone is of the most painful types of fractures. And the tibia plays a crucial role in mobility and functionality, so serious shinbone injuries can greatly interfere with normal, everyday activities.

The treatment for a broken tibia depends upon the type and severity of the fracture. For many mild to moderate fractures, a splint may suffice as an initial treatment. The splint will provide stability and keep the bone in place while the swelling goes down, at which time a cast might be applied to allow the body time to repair itself.

Serious fractures may require surgery. In some cases, the surgeon may need to implant screws and plates to help give the tibia stability and to keep it straight during the healing process. Your doctor will provide more detail about treatment for a broken tibia and the recovery period afterward; in some cases, physical therapy may be necessary.

Ensuring Your Bicycle Accident Claim Settlement is Sufficient

Many cyclists don’t get the compensation to which they’re entitled after an accident because either they fail to list all of their damages, or because the insurance company undermines the extent and impact of the injury.

If you suffered an injury in a bicycle accident on a Denver street, trail, or bike path for which someone else is responsible, ensure that your attorney helps you seek reimbursement for all of your damages.

An attorney can argue for payment for those damages listed below.

  • Emergency room visit and diagnostic tests
  • Medical and rehabilitation bills
  • Cost of prescriptions, medical aides (such as crutches) and other treatment for a broken tibia
  • Lost wages and disability
  • The impact of the injury on your daily life
  • Pain and suffering

Free Consult with a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Denver

Bicycle accident victims should speak to an attorney to determine their legal options. For accidents in Denver, contact the Law Office of D.J. Banovitz at 303-300-5060 to set up an appointment so you can discuss your case.

D.J. Banovitz’ career has always concentrated on trial practice and he has litigated hundreds of cases. His passion and sole career focus has been to seek justice for people suffering from personal injuries as the result of someone else’s negligence. The hallmark of the Law Office of D.J. Banovitz, is the total commitment to professionalism, quality, and personalized care of your injury case. D.J. has dedicated his professional life to helping those most in need and is a proud and active member of the Colorado Trial Lawyers Association. His experience includes volunteering for Colorado Rural Legal Services in Montrose, the Colorado Aids Project, consumer law, family law, criminal defense, and Alternative Defense Counsel for juveniles in Denver.