Broken Collarbone Lawyer in Massachusetts

Clavicle Fractures From Accidents

The clavicle, the collarbone, is one of the most commonly fractured bones in car accidents, motorcycle crashes, bicycle accidents, and falls. It is particularly vulnerable because it lies directly beneath the seat belt, which distributes crash forces across its length, and because falls on an outstretched arm transmit force directly to the clavicle. While many clavicle fractures heal with non-surgical management in a sling, significantly displaced fractures require surgical plate fixation and subsequent physical therapy. Attorney Jeffrey C. Lavey represents clavicle fracture victims throughout Massachusetts.

Seat Belt Injuries and Clavicle Fractures

In frontal car crashes, the seat belt distributes the decelerating force across the chest and clavicle. In high-energy crashes, this force can be sufficient to fracture the clavicle. A seat belt-related clavicle fracture is an accident injury, caused by the force of the crash, for which the at-fault driver is responsible. This is true even though the seat belt was functioning correctly, the seat belt prevented far more serious chest injury but could not eliminate all force transmission to the bone.

Treatment for Displaced Clavicle Fractures

A non-displaced clavicle fracture, where the bone segments remain in acceptable alignment, is typically treated with immobilization in a sling for several weeks, followed by physical therapy. A displaced fracture, where the fracture segments have separated significantly, often requires surgical reduction and fixation with a plate and screws. The surgical incision, recovery period, and physical therapy following surgical fixation extend the treatment timeline and increase the medical costs. All of these costs are recoverable from the at-fault party.

Work and Daily Life Impact

A clavicle fracture makes it impossible to use the arm on the affected side for lifting, reaching, and most physical tasks during the healing period. Workers who perform physical labor face weeks or months of complete work disability. Even desk workers may be significantly affected. The pain during healing can be severe, particularly when any movement of the arm causes motion at the fracture site. Attorney Lavey documents the full employment impact and pain and suffering associated with every clavicle fracture case.

Long-Term Complications

Most clavicle fractures heal successfully, but some develop complications including malunion (healing in an unacceptable position), nonunion (failure to heal), and acromioclavicular joint injury. These complications may require additional surgery and result in permanent changes to shoulder function and appearance. Long-term complications are compensable as ongoing consequences of the original accident injury. Attorney Lavey tracks every client’s recovery and documents all complications as they arise.

Frequently Asked Questions