Broken Bones & Fractures Compensation Claims

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If you’ve suffered a bone fracture or dislocation because of someone else’s negligence – whether at work, in a public place, on the road, or in a healthcare setting – you may be eligible to claim compensation.

At Direct2Compensation, we connect injured individuals with expert personal injury solicitors who specialise in No Win No Fee claims.

With over 28 years of experience, we’re here to make sure your rights are protected and you receive qualified professional support and get you the compensation you deserve.

Key Takeaways

  • Compensation reflects both injury severity and long-term impact on your life
  • Claims must be started within three years of your accident
  • No Win No Fee agreements mean you only pay if your claim succeeds
  • Medical evidence and expert testimony strengthen your claim
  • You can claim for multiple injuries from the same incident
  • Compensation covers both immediate and future financial losses
  • Early rehabilitation support can be arranged through interim payments
  • Claims include costs for medical treatment, lost earnings, and care needs

What Are Bone Fractures?

Bone Fractures Explained

A fracture is a break, crack, or shattering of a bone. Fractures can vary in severity and complexity depending on the force and type of trauma. The main types include:

  • Closed or Simple Fracture – A clean break where the skin remains intact.
  • Compound or Open Fracture – The bone breaks through the skin, increasing the risk of infection and complications.
  • Comminuted Fracture – The bone shatters into three or more pieces.
  • Greenstick Fracture – Common in children, where the bone bends and cracks but doesn’t break fully.
  • Spiral Fracture – A twisting force causes a helical break.
  • Hairline or Stress Fracture – Small cracks caused by repetitive strain or overuse.

Common Causes of Bone Fractures

Fractures and dislocations may result from a variety of accident types, including:

  • Accidents at work – Slips, trips, or falls, manual handling injuries, or accidents with machinery.
  • Road traffic accidents – Whether you are a driver, passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian.
  • Public liability incidents – Such as falling on an uneven pavement or in a poorly maintained public place.
  • Criminal assault – Where a physical attack causes a broken bone.
  • Sporting accidents – Especially if caused by inadequate supervision or faulty equipment.

Can I Make a Claim?

To make a successful claim, you must prove:

  • Duty of care – The responsible party owed you a legal duty.
  • Breach of duty – That duty was breached through negligence or omission.
  • Causation – The breach directly led to your fracture or dislocation.
    We can help you to identify if these criteria are met in your case. If so, your claim has a strong foundation and a good chance of succeeding. It is worth nothing that claims can also be made on behalf of children or others who may lack mental capacity. Claims for criminal injuries may also be possible via the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Compound Fractures – More Serious, More Complex

Compound fractures are classified as serious injuries because the bone breaks the skin, increasing the likelihood of infection and permanent damage. These injuries often require:

  • Emergency surgery
  • Metal plates, rods or screws
  • Physiotherapy or occupational therapy
  • Significant time off work
    Compound fractures will see claimants left with scars, reduced mobility, or long-term pain. Compensation amounts for compound fractures can exceed £200,000 in severe cases.

Fractures at Work

Injuries at work are common in sectors such as construction, warehousing, healthcare, and retail. Employers are legally required to:

  • Maintain safe working conditions
  • Provide suitable equipment and training
  • Conduct regular risk assessments

Failure to meet these obligations may mean they are liable for your injury.
If you are injured in an accident at work, it’s important to:

  • Ensure the accident is logged in the work accident book or recorded in writing
  • Seek medical treatment at the earliest opportunity
  • Obtain witness contact details, if available
  • Take photos of the scene, if possible
    Even if you are unsure whether you have a claim, our expert advisors can help assess your situation.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After a Bone Fracture

Immediate Care

Following a diagnosis – usually confirmed by an X-ray or CT scan – you may need:

  • Immobilisation using a cast, splint, or brace
  • Surgery to insert metal plates, screws, or rods (particularly for compound or comminuted fractures)
  • Pain relief medication and anti-inflammatory drugs
  • Tetanus injections or antibiotics in the case of open wounds

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Once your bone begins to heal, you may be referred to a physiotherapist. This stage is vital for regaining strength, flexibility, and full function. Treatment could include:

  • Guided exercises to rebuild muscle and joint movement
  • Hydrotherapy or low-impact aquatic exercises
  • Massage or ultrasound therapy
  • Occupational therapy, especially if your job or hobbies are affected

Emotional and Psychological Recovery

Injuries of this nature can also affect the mental wellbeing of the injured party and this is something that can easily be overlooked. However, psychological impacts of an accident can form part of a personal injury claim too. Common experiences include:

  • Loss of confidence in everyday tasks
  • Fear of re-injury or accidents
  • Frustration from reduced independence or work capacity

Mental health support or counselling is a valid and often necessary part of the recovery journey – and something your solicitor can include in your claim.

If you are struggling to cope with the psychological impact of your accident and how the injuries are impacting your life, see your GP to ensure that your medical records can support this aspect of your claim.

Learn more about accessing rehabilitation as part of your personal injury claim.

Long-Term Impact and Future Planning

Many people face long-term consequences from bone injuries. These may include:

  • Chronic pain – Even after healing, pain may persist due to nerve damage or misalignment.
  • Arthritis – Fractures that extend into joints can increase your risk of developing arthritis.
  • Reduced mobility or stiffness – Especially common after shoulder, hip, or knee injuries.
  • Reduced career prospects – If your job is physically demanding, you may need to change careers or reduce your hours.
  • Visible scarring or deformity – Particularly with compound fractures or surgical interventions.

These factors don’t just affect your life – they influence how much compensation you are entitled to. Our specialist Solicitors will ensure that your claim will take into account:

  • The impact of the injuries on your daily routine and ability to enjoy life
  • Ongoing needs for further medical care or support
  • Adaptations to your home or vehicle
  • Training or retraining for a new role

The Legal Process: What to Expect When You Make a Claim

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Initial Contact – You’ll speak to an advisor at Direct2Compensation who will assess whether your claim is likely to succeed and answer any initial questions you may have.
  2. No Win No Fee Agreement – If your claim is valid, you’ll enter into a No Win No Fee agreement with a personal injury solicitor who specialises in fracture injuries.
  3. Information Gathering – Your solicitor will collect key evidence for you, such as medical records, witness statements, accident reports, and more.
  4. Medical Assessment – You may be referred to an independent medical expert to provide a detailed report on the nature and impact of your injuries.
  5. Valuing Your Claim – The Solicitor prepares a formal letter of claim and submits the claim to the defendants.
  6. Negotiation – Most claims are settled during negotiation with the defendant’s insurer. You may receive an initial offer, which your solicitor will review and advise on. The solicitor will have calculated the appropriate level general and special damages for your claim.
  7. Court Proceedings (if needed) – If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your solicitor may issue court proceedings. This is rare – fewer than 5% of cases go to trial.
  8. Settlement – Once agreed, the compensation is paid to you as per the No Win No Fee service.
    Your solicitor will keep you updated at every step and we’re here to help and answer any questions you may have at any stage along the way.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Claim

Many people inadvertently weaken their claims by making avoidable errors. Here are some common mistakes – and how to avoid them:

  • Delaying medical treatment – Always seek medical attention at the earliest opportunity. Waiting may cast doubt on the severity or cause of your injury.
  • Failing to report the accident – Whether at work, on the road, or in a public place – try to ensure the incident is recorded in writing.
  • Posting about your accident on social media – Insurance companies may use social media posts to dispute your claim or discredit you.
  • Not keeping receipts or records – Without proof of expenses or losses, your solicitor may not be able to recover costs you have incurred.
  • Accepting early settlement offers – These are often low and may not reflect your full entitlement. Always consult your solicitor before accepting any offer. A qualified specialist solicitor will know an appropriate value for your particular claim and circumstances.

Understanding Compensation Structure

Compensation amounts for broken bones reflects both injury severity and long-term impact:

SeverityCompensation RangeImpact Level
Very Severe£200,000+Multiple serious fractures with financial losses
Severe Leg£96,250 – £135,920Extensive injuries requiring grafting
Severe Hip/Pelvis£78,400 – £130,930Extensive fractures with complications
Severe Ankle£50,060 – £69,700Complex breaks requiring surgery
Simple Fractures£2,210 – £15,000Complete recovery expected

Special Damages

Recovery of losses and out-of-pocket expenses, including:

  • Loss of earnings (including future lost income)
  • Medical and rehabilitation costs
  • Travel and transport
  • Specialist equipment or adaptations (e.g., wheelchair, stairlift)
  • Paid or family care

Your solicitor will help gather the evidence needed to maximise this part of your claim.

Case Study Examples

Workplace Fall from Height

Mr. C, a warehouse electrician, fell from height whilst being asked to fix an electrical fault on a high wall.  Rather than use a scaffold tower, the employer tried to cut corners and instead made him stand on the top shelf.

Despite complaining that this wasn’t safe, he was pressured into completing the work as the employer was concerned about the production being slowed down.  Unfortunately, the shelving collapsed as he was standing on it and he fell, suffering a complex lower leg fracture and dislocated elbow. In this case, the employer was in clear breach of health and safety law and safe working practices.

With our help, Mr. C received a substantial compensation settlement covering the fact that he was left unable to drive for a long while, left unable to continue with his amateur football side, lost a considerable amount of income and also covering the costs of his physiotherapy and future medical costs.

Cycling Collision

Mr. P was cycling and stationary at a junction when a driver failed to stop and collided with him from behind.  Mr. P was thrown from his bike and fell heavily, sustaining a fractured wrist and dislocated thumb.

The compensation settlement in this matter included general damages for the pain and suffering caused by the injuries and special damages including lost wages as he could not continue to work as a chef for a period whilst recovering.  He was also able to recover the cost of replacing his new bicycle and bike accessories including his helmet.

Why Choose Direct2Compensation?

With a five-star reputation, specialist knowledge, and transparent communication, Direct2Compensation offers:

  • Immediate, free legal guidance
  • Direct access to expert solicitors and no call centre!
  • A supportive, ethical approach
  • Regular updates and jargon-free advice

We understand the impact a bone injury can have – and we’re committed to helping you get back on your feet, financially and physically.

Ready to Speak to Someone?

If you’ve suffered a broken bone or dislocation and believe someone else was at fault, speak to us today.

We’ll explain your rights, give you a clear understanding of the claims process, and match you with one of our fantastic specialist solicitors who can start your claim with no financial risk to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Comments & Questions

Read on for questions and advice about claiming, plus fracture claim examples...

I fell downstairs at home and badly sprained my left ankle and broke my left foot and was unable to walk, I went to the local A@E and the doctor told me it was just a bad sprain but she x rayed it anyway, it turned out to be a broken foot, I asked her could she sort it out bu putting a cast on it because I still couldn’t walk, she said that they don’t put casts on broken feet anymore and she told me to walk on it, which I couldn’t do because my husband had to carry me into A@E, then I was put in a wheelchair, so she knew that I could not walk. I asked her if I could have crutches, she reluctantly gave them to me but again she said they don’t give them out. I couldn’t believe the care I received.I broke my foot 7th January 2020 and now I have a limp and I can’t put much weight on it anymore. I used to be fit and active, I played walking football which I really enjoyed but I can’t play anymore and it has left me in a lot of pain, I can’t see a physiotherapist due to Lockdown. Do I have a claim?

Ian Morris

The only potential route to compensation in the scenario you describe would be one of a clinical negligence nature. The initial injury cannot be attributed to negligence so you cannot claim for that, but as you believe that your treatment may have been negligent, the potential to claim against the Hospital trust in question can be considered.

Karen

I recently saw a podiatrist and she was astonished to find me walking on a broken foot, she said that I should have had a boot on from when I went to hospital, now I have to see a surgeon because it looks like I now need an operation on it. The hospital has admitted that I had a fractured foot and did nothing about it, Do I have a claim?

Ian Morris

Whilst missing a serious injury like a broken foot is astonishing and concerning (to say the least), it does not necessarily follow that it will be seen as clinical negligence. Broken bones may not always appear visible on first x-rays due to swelling and other issues, but if symptoms of pain persist, further investigations and assistance should be provided. In your case given the seriousness of the situation and the fact that you may now require surgery, this is a matter that should be investigated further – something our specialist Solicitors can assist with.

Clinical negligence is a particular specialism within personal injury and requires expert advice and consideration. We have such specialist Solicitors available to assist you and they can advise you as to whether you can succeed with a claim. The best course of action would be for you to email us some further information regarding the initial injury, when you first presented at Hospital and what procedures (x-rays, scans etc) you underwent and what the Hospital said to you when they discharged you without a cast/boot or crutches.

Reply

Hello, a work colleague dropped a scaffolding board on me and it fractured my skull. Would I be able to make a claim against my employer?

Thanks

Ian Morris

Yes, you can pursue a claim in the circumstances that you describe. The employer will have questions to answer regarding health and safety precautions at work – such as hard hats and PPE and our Solicitors would be interested in pursuing the claim for you.

Reply

Should you wait until you are fully recovered before putting in a claim? I have fractured my tibia and fibula.

Ian Morris

In short, no! There is no need to wait for your full recovery to be made before you make a claim. Indeed, doing so could be detrimental to your claim and just prolong the process of reaching a point where you can receive compensation for any injuries sustained and more importantly, recovering any loss of income.

The claims process will take time anyway, with it unusual to settle any claim, let alone one for injuries as serious as fractures to both the tibia and fibula within 18 months of starting the process. The time taken in the claims process will allow you to continue your recovery whilst the initial arguments about liability etc are discussed, so waiting for your recovery to happen first is pointless.

Our view, and that shared by the specialist personal injury compensation Solicitors who represent our clients is that it is important to avoid delay in making any claim. Starting your claim at the earliest opportunity gives the best chance of obtaining the right evidence to support your claim and will give your Solicitor the maximum opportunity to ensure that your claim succeeds and that any settlement adequately reflects the pain, discomfort and expense caused to you by your injury.

Reply

my mum tripped up on an uneven pavement slab in a street and broken her fingers which has left her arm being left in a cast and possible operation, would she be able to claim?

Ian Morris

To make a claim for compensation after a tripping accident, the injured person needs to be able to identify an area of disrepair and a tripping hazard that indicates that there is a good prospect of succeeding with a claim for compensation. Please read our article on valid tripping accident compensation claims and then consider the area where your Mother tripped and fell. Please take some photographs of the area in question and then send them to us so that we can review them and advise you as to whether or not your Mother has a valid tripping accident compensation claim.

Reply

Hi, I had a fall at work in August 18, flooring was being replaced and some vinyl was left not stuck down and I caught my foot under it and fell onto a concrete floor. My right knee took all of my weight and I fractured my knee. I wore a leg brace for 12 weeks and was off work for four months. I received my full wages during this time.

After the leg brace was removed I had another x-ray, the fracture has not healed and I am having ongoing problems with my mobility and pain. An accident form was filled in at the time there were witnesses and I have photos of the flooring.

Also the company who were fitting the flooring were sub contracted by the main contractor so I am unsure who is responsible.

Ian Morris

Who the liable party are is, at this stage at least, irrelevant. From what you have said, you have a very strong claim for compensation and this is something we would very much like to assist you with.

Our expert specialist Solicitors would find out who the liable and negligent party were and then proceed with a claim against them to recover compensation for your physical injuries and any associated loss of income or incurred costs. If you’d some info on potential compensation amounts have a read of our article on knee injury claims.

Reply

I had an accident at work a year ago. I work in warehouse. I was moving by myself heavy machine part from original packaging to standard pallet. i have done this before many times. It is required by my employer. I lifted and twisted when I suddenly felt the pain in my right hip. I finished work and went home. I did not realise that could be something serious. MRI stated fracture. I had a manual training done however in that situation I could not use this. The hoist I could not use because it did not pass the safety test. In my department we do not have a fork lift trucks. Other departments have. I always have to ask for help and it takes some time. I do not have a witness but my work place is covered by 3 CCTV cameras. I was off work for a week. When I came back to work the accident rapport has been done by my manager and light duties work applied. I had to back to work, because I’m the only one who works in my family and we have disabled child. I felt a discomfort while I was walking but I did not report it because I was afraid to loose an income. Since that time I had no meeting with HR or H&S department relating my accident. I believe it was not reported to HSE. This summer I had an hip arthroscopy and piece of bone have been removed from my body. The orthopaedics said that surgery has to be done as quick as possible due to more damages in my hip joint. I’m on SSP from August this year. I had an accident in September 2017 and I know that team leaders have had a risk assessment training in April or May 2018. On the time of the accident the first aid officer and H&S officer were not in the warehouse. First aid officer is in the office and we have visit once a month from H&S department. Also i did not see a have object label on the original pallet.
Please advise.

Ian Morris

My initial view is that you should pursue a claim for hip injury compensation against the employer. Although they have provided manual handling, if we can demonstrate that your employer then made it impossible for you to work in accordance with manual handling training – either through the working environment or inadequate/broken machinery, you have a good chance of succeeding with a claim for compensation.

Reply

Can I claim after 3 Years?

Ian Morris

If you are over the age of 21, you will be statute barred under UK personal Injury Law and unable to make a claim. If you are under 21, then yes you can! To properly understand UK personal injury compensation claim limitation periods, see this useful article explaining how long you have got to make a claim for compensation.

Reply

My boy had an accident at a swing park, when he fell off and there were no safety mats. He broke his elbow. Can I clam for him?

Ian Morris

You would be able to make a claim on behalf of your Son if there ought to be mats present, but they were not in situ. However, if the accident happened in a public recreation ground with grass beneath the swings and no matting in place, you would struggle to succeed with such an action.

Reply

I was invited to a works’ conference abroad where we were taken skiing during the day. I broke my leg above my right ankle on the first day within the first two hours! The binding didn’t release when I fell over (this was the first time I’d ever skied). I have had to have 4 operations since on my leg, my hip and my ankle. Do I have any right to claim?

Ian Morris

It would be very difficult to hold the employer liable for the injury you sustained in this incident. Whilst they employer may have invited you to a conference, skiing is an inherently dangerous activity that does present the risk of injuries such as a fracture. As such, it could be argued that you didn’t have to do the skiing and that it was just an unfortunate accident.

You mention that the binding didn’t release when you fell. Whilst ski bindings are designed to release when excess pressure is placed on them in a fall it is not always the case that they do so. To prove that your bindings had been set incorrectly would be extremely difficult.

Reply
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