Recovering From a Broken Jaw After a Brooklyn Car Accident: What Are My Options?

Known by medical professionals as “mandibular fractures,” broken jaws are relatively common after car accidents. This is a painful type of fracture, and the recovery process can be difficult. What if you suffered this type of injury due to a car accident in Brooklyn? What will your recovery process look like? Perhaps more importantly, how will you pursue enough compensation to cover your damages?

How Do Car Accidents Cause Broken Jaws?

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine and other sources, vehicle collisions represent the most common cause of facial trauma in the United States. Mandibular fractures fall under the general category of facial trauma, since the jaw is part of the face.

During a car accident, a vehicle occupant might suffer various types of impacts to the jaw area. A rear or frontal impact might throw them forward into their steering wheel or the dashboard of the vehicle. A side impact might jolt them into the side window, thereby causing an impact to the jaw area.

An external object might come through the windshield and impact the jaw, such as a tree branch or utility pole. Objects within the vehicle might also be thrown around by impacts. If these objects are heavy enough, they can easily cause mandibular fractures. Passengers might also impact each other in a way that leads to fractured jaws.

What Is the Recovery Process for a Fractured Jaw?

Fractured jaws lead to swelling, pain, tenderness, and reduced mobility of the joint. This injury makes it difficult to chew, swallow, or open the mouth without pain. Long-term consequences include misalignment, which can subsequently require dental treatment to realign the teeth.

Treatment options may vary depending on the type and severity of the fracture. Surgery is common, and this might involve the insertion of wires, plates, and screws to ensure proper healing and realignment of the jaw. Expect an arduous recovery process that takes weeks if not months. You may need to stay on a liquid diet while your jaw recovers.

Can I Get Compensation for Medical Expenses After a Car Accident?

Yes, you should be able to pursue compensation for your medical expenses after a car accident. This should help you heal properly, access dental treatment, and take various other steps to ensure your jaw does not lead to a permanent medical issue. Your injury claim should also cover the cost of your lost income, allowing you to rest sufficiently before returning to work.

Can a Brooklyn Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A Brooklyn car accident lawyer may be able to help you pursue compensation for your fractured jaw. If someone else caused your crash, you have every right to hold them accountable. This can help you pay your medical bills, cover lost wages, and address various non-economic damages. Contact Cohan Law, PLLC today to learn more.

Source:

 health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/broken-jaw-a-to-z