Injuries during a car accident or slip and fall can range from mild to severe. Often, injuries that impact the foot and ankle heal easily. However, for many people, this is not the case. People with these kinds of injuries may need to walk to go to work or school and even engage in day-to-day responsibilities. Also, because you are always putting weight on your feet, these injuries can take longer to heal.
In some situations, your foot and ankle injuries may be directly related to the actions or inaction of another person. In West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky, our personal injury attorneys have helped many people struggling with foot and ankle injuries to get the fair compensation they deserve. Don’t settle your case with any insurance company until you speak to an attorney.
Ankle and Foot Injuries
These injuries range from mild to debilitating. If you are hurt in any type of accident, we encourage you to go to the emergency room for a comprehensive exam, even if you think you are okay. Injuries to the foot and ankle can worsen over time if not properly treated, which can lead to swelling and inflammation. Here are some of the most common injuries associated with these types of accidents:
- Broken bones or fractures. Very painful and often immediately noticeable, broken bones are very difficult to recover from especially if you are older. Minor fractures may be hard to initially feel, but walking on a foot with even a slight fracture can aggravate the injury and can cause problems for years to come.
- Sprains and strains.These injuries are very common, but that does not mean they are any less painful. When a sprain or a strain occurs, the soft tissues become damaged, inflamed and painful. Without treatment, this type of injury often worsens over time and require treatment.
- Muscle tears. Both the ligaments and the meniscus in the ankle and foot can tear. Tears occur when the tissue itself separates. These can be very debilitating, may require surgery for repairs, and can mean spending a significant amount of time off your feet.
Secure the Treatment You Need
When you suffer an accident of any type, seek out medical care right away. Stay where you are and call for help. Document the area – where are you, what caused the accident , and who is responsible. If you are in a car accident, it is best to call the police as well. Ensure a police report is filed.
Some patients may need just an x-ray to confirm they are okay, while others will need more intense procedures, such as surgeries, to repair the damage. In all situations, you should be seen by a doctor right away.
Compensation for Your Losses
When you suffer from foot and ankle injuries, your losses can be more than you may initially believe. For example, if you have only minor inflammation at first,and recover in a few days you may think the worst is over. However, what if the inflammation is actually a muscle tear or worse, a break? Then you will pay significantly more for the medical care you need . You may also be unable to work for a period of time during your recovery. You may suffer losses related to your quality of life if you walk with a limp or suffer long-term damage. You may also need physical therapy. You may have other injuries, such as a spinal injury or a shoulder injury. Therefore, make sure to speak with an attorney who specializes in personal injury before settling your claim.
These are all common losses an individual may have if they suffer from a foot or ankle injury in an accident. Your foot and ankle injuries may be the responsibility of someone else. However, you cannot know the full extend of your losses right way. You injury will take time to heal. This is why you should never feel pressured into filing a claim quickly. Instead, work with a West Virginia personal injury attorney at our firm.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Your WV Personal Injury Attorneys
With over 50 years of experience, the attorneys at Johnstone & Gabhart, LLP are here to help you with any type of personal injury claim. Our team provides a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case.
If you are suffering a personal injury, having mounting medical bills, or cannot enjoy life like you used to, we encourage you to call our offices to discuss your case. Use our online contact form, or call us now at 877-416-5457.
