A common biking injury in the Kirkland area is the Colles’ fracture, also known as a distal radius fracture or a broken wrist. This break occurs in the larger bone of the forearm, close to where the bone meets the hand, near the thumb.
This is a common type of broken bone, often the result of falls where an individual lands on his or her outstretched arm. Because bicyclists who fall often put their hands down to protect their faces and heads, a broken wrist is often the result of bike crashes.
Symptoms of a Broken Wrist
If you’ve had a bicycle accident and suffer from any of the following symptoms, you may have a broken wrist. Seek medical attention immediately. A physician can order X-rays that will help diagnose your condition.
Some common signs of a distal radius fracture include:
- Tenderness in the wrist area
- Swelling
- Pain, especially when attempting to bend or flex the wrist
- Bruising in the area of the wrist
- A crooked or bent appearance of the wrist
If any of the following symptoms appear, go to the emergency room. Nerves and/or blood flow in the area of the break sometimes can be affected by the injury and will warrant emergency medical treatment.
- Extreme pain in the wrist
- Numbness in the wrist, hand or arm
- Paleness of the fingers
Treatment for a Broken Wrist
Treatment varies for a broken wrist. If you’ve broken your wrist in a bicycle accident, expect to receive any of the following treatments.
- Resetting the bone: If you need the bone reset, you will probably need anesthesia. This is often a very painful process, and the doctor will advise you of the care plan for your particular injury. Pain medication may be required after the resetting procedure is complete.
- Splinting the wrist: This is typically a short-term solution to immobilize the wrist until swelling decreases and a cast can be put on. Casting usually occurs within one week.
- Casting: If your break requires a cast, you will probably have to wear it for six to eight weeks -- longer if the break is severe.
- Additional X-rays: You may need to submit to follow-up X-rays to ensure that the bones are healing correctly.
- Surgery: Surgery is a possible solution in severe breaks. Pins, screws or plates may be used to repair the injury.
Filing a Claim for Your Injury
If your bicycle accident and resulting broken wrist were the result of a driver’s negligence, you can file a claim for compensation for medical bills, any lost wages, and/or pain and suffering related to the crash. In some cases, the fault of the other driver will be clearly designated. The driver may admit fault and offer to take care of your expenses, or a police report may cite the circumstances of the accident and assign fault.
In other cases, you may need an attorney who specializes in cases like yours. Look for one who has a successful track record of winning personal injury claims for bicyclists. You will need to prove that a negligent act of the responsible party caused your injury and defend yourself against any claims that you contributed to the crash. You also will need to provide documentation and quantify your injuries and damages. A qualified attorney can help organize documentation and supporting evidence and will build a strong case against the responsible party.
Call Max Meyers for Help with Your Broken Wrist Claim
If you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash, you may feel overwhelmed and confused about what to do first. We can help with your insurance claim and simplify the process of your personal injury case. Call Max Meyers Law today at 425-399-7000 to set up a consultation with an attorney.
