Accidents can happen at any time and in any place, and when they do, they can result in serious injuries. One such injury is a fractured sternum, also known as a fractured breastbone. This type of injury can be extremely painful and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. If you have suffered a fractured sternum due to an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about claiming compensation for a fractured sternum. From understanding the compensation payout amounts to seeking immediate medical attention after an accident, we will provide you with valuable information and advice to help you navigate the claims process successfully.

How Much Compensation Can I Claim?

When it comes to determining the amount of compensation you can claim for a fractured sternum, several factors come into play. The severity of your injury, the impact it has had on your daily life, and any financial losses you have incurred as a result will all be taken into consideration.

It is important to note that every case is unique, and the compensation payout can vary significantly. However, as a general guideline, a fractured sternum compensation payout can range from £10,000 to £20,000. In some cases, where the injury is particularly severe or has long-lasting effects, the payout can exceed £20,000.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Do I Have a Valid Claim?

To determine whether you have a valid claim for a fractured sternum, several key elements must be present. These include:

Negligence: You must be able to prove that someone else was at fault for the accident that caused your fractured sternum. This could be another individual, a company, or even a public entity.

Causation: You must establish a direct link between the accident and your fractured sternum. This means demonstrating that the accident directly caused your injury.

Damages: You must have suffered physical, emotional, or financial damages as a result of your fractured sternum. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other related costs.

If these elements are present in your case, you likely have a valid claim for compensation. However, it is always recommended to consult with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in fractured sternum claims to assess the specific details of your situation.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone) Injury: Statistics For Personal Injury Claims In The UK

Personal injury claims are relatively common in the UK, with thousands of individuals seeking compensation for their injuries each year. According to statistics, the most common types of personal injury claims in the UK include road traffic accidents, accidents at work, and slips, trips, and falls.

In terms of compensation payouts, the average amount awarded for personal injury claims in the UK is around £12,000. However, this can vary significantly depending on the nature and severity of the injury.

In the year 2022/23, 68 members of the public were killed in work-related accidents in the UK 1. Over the long term, the rate of fatal injury to workers showed a downward trend, although in the recent years prior to the coronavirus pandemic, the rate had been broadly flat. The current rate is similar to pre-pandemic levels 1.

In terms of non-fatal injuries, according to self-reports from the Labour Force Survey in 2022/23, 561,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury 5. Furthermore, 60,645 employee non-fatal injuries were reported by employers in the same period (RIDDOR) 5. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, both the rate of self-reported non-fatal injury to workers and the rate of non-fatal injury to employees reported by employers showed a downward trend. The current rates are similar to the 2018/19 pre-coronavirus levels 5.

These statistics are crucial for understanding the state of workplace safety in the UK. They highlight the importance of implementing robust safety measures and enforcing stringent regulations to prevent workplace accidents and injuries.

Fatal Injuries

Over the long-term, the number of fatal injuries to employees has substantially reduced. For instance, in 2022/23, there were 68 fatal injuries among workers 1. The main types of fatal accidents included falls from a height (40 incidents), being struck by a moving object (29 incidents), and being struck by a moving vehicle (20 incidents) 1.

Non-fatal Injuries

On the other hand, non-fatal injuries have seen a significant decrease over the years. According to the Labour Force Survey in 2022/23, 561,000 workers sustained a non-fatal injury 4. Furthermore, 60,645 employee non-fatal injuries were reported by employers in the same period 4.

Work-Related Illness

As for work-related illness, the rate of total self-reported work-related ill health (including both new and long-standing cases) has declined from the level seen in the 1990s. However, the rate of self-reported work-related stress, depression, or anxiety had shown signs of increasing in the recent years prior to the coronavirus pandemic 2.

In 2022/23, the rate of total self-reported work-related illness was higher than the 2018/19 pre-coronavirus level, driven by a higher rate of self-reported work-related stress, depression, or anxiety. For self-reported work-related musculoskeletal disorders, the rate in 2022/23 was similar to the 2018/19 pre-coronavirus level 2.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Comparison with Previous Years

To compare these statistics with previous years, we can refer to the Health and Safety Executive’s report on workplace injury for 2020/2021. In this period, a total of 441,000 working people sustained an injury at work, and 142 workers were killed at work 5.

These statistics show a clear downward trend in fatal injuries and non-fatal injuries over the years. However, the rise in work-related stress, depression, and anxiety indicates that there is still room for improvement in managing mental health in the workplace.

How To Recover Following an Accident

Recovering from a fractured sternum can be a lengthy and challenging process. It is important to prioritize your health and well-being during this time. Here are some steps you can take to aid in your recovery:

Seek Medical Attention: It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention after an accident that has resulted in a fractured sternum. A healthcare professional will assess your injury and provide appropriate treatment and pain management.

Follow Medical Advice: It is essential to follow the advice and treatment plan provided by your healthcare provider. This may include rest, physical therapy, pain medication, and regular check-ups.

Take Care of Yourself: Ensure you are getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in light physical activity as recommended by your healthcare provider. Taking care of your overall well-being will aid in the healing process.

Attend Rehabilitation: Depending on the severity of your fractured sternum, you may require rehabilitation to regain strength and mobility. Attend all recommended rehabilitation sessions and follow the exercises prescribed by your therapist.

Keep Records: Maintain a record of all medical appointments, treatments, and expenses related to your fractured sternum. These records will be crucial when filing your compensation claim.

Average Compensation Payout Amounts

As mentioned earlier, the average compensation payout for a fractured sternum can range from £10,000 to £20,000. However, it is important to note that this is just an average, and the actual amount awarded can vary based on the specific circumstances of your case.

Factors that can influence the compensation payout include the severity of the injury, the impact on your daily life, the extent of medical treatment required, and any long-term effects or disabilities resulting from the fractured sternum.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Case Study Examples

To provide you with a better understanding of how compensation payouts for fractured sternum claims can vary, let’s look at a few casestudy examples:

Case Study 1: Mild Fractured Sternum

A 35-year-old individual was involved in a car accident and suffered a mild fractured sternum.

The injury required a few weeks of rest and pain medication.

The individual experienced minimal impact on their daily life and returned to work within a month.

Compensation Payout: £10,000

Case Study 2: Moderate Fractured Sternum

A 45-year-old individual slipped and fell at a supermarket, resulting in a moderate fractured sternum.

The injury required hospitalization, surgery, and several months of rehabilitation.

The individual experienced significant pain and had to take time off work for three months.

Compensation Payout: £15,000

Case Study 3: Severe Fractured Sternum

A 50-year-old individual was involved in a workplace accident and suffered a severe fractured sternum.

The injury required extensive surgery, a prolonged hospital stay, and ongoing physical therapy.

The individual experienced long-term pain, limited mobility, and was unable to work for an extended period.

Compensation Payout: £20,000

These case studies highlight the varying compensation amounts based on the severity of the fractured sternum and its impact on the individual’s life.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Understanding Liability in Injury Claims

When pursuing a compensation claim for a fractured sternum, establishing liability is crucial. Liability refers to determining who is legally responsible for the accident and subsequent injury. In some cases, it may be clear-cut, such as when the accident was caused by the negligence of another driver in a car accident.

However, liability can be more complex in other situations, such as accidents at work or slips and falls in public places. It is important to gather evidence, such as witness statements, CCTV footage, and accident reports, to support your claim and prove liability.

Seeking Immediate Medical Attention After an Accident

After an accident that results in a fractured sternum, seeking immediate medical attention is of utmost importance. Even if you do not experience severe pain or visible symptoms, it is essential to have a medical professional assess your condition.

Prompt medical attention serves multiple purposes:

Diagnosis and Treatment: A medical professional will diagnose your fractured sternum and provide appropriate treatment options to promote healing and manage pain.

Documentation: Medical records serve as crucial evidence when filing a compensation claim. They establish a link between the accident and your injury, supporting your case.

Prevent Further Complications: Early medical intervention can help prevent potential complications and ensure proper healing of the fractured sternum.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Time Limits for Making a Injury Claim

In the UK, there are strict time limits for making a transport injury claim, including claims for fractured sternum. The general time limit is three years from the date of the accident or from the date you became aware of your injury.

It is crucial to initiate the claims process within this time frame to avoid potential complications. Delaying the claim may result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.

The Role of Expert Witnesses in Injury Claims

Expert witnesses play a significant role in fractured sternum injury claims. These professionals provide their expertise and opinions based on their specialized knowledge and experience. They can help establish the severity of the injury, the impact on your life, and the long-term effects.

Expert witnesses commonly involved in fractured sternum claims may include:

Orthopedic surgeons

Rehabilitation specialists

Occupational therapists

Psychologists or psychiatrists

Their testimonies can strengthen your case and support the compensation amount you are seeking.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone): Understanding Contributory Negligence

Contributory negligence is a legal concept that comes into play when the injured party is partially responsible for the accident that caused their injury. In fractured sternum claims, contributory negligence may arise if it is determined that you were partially at fault for the accident.

If contributory negligence is established, it can affect the compensation amount you receive. The court may reduce the payout based on the percentage of fault assigned to you.

It is essential to consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand how contributory negligence may impact your claim and to navigate the legal complexities involved.

Fractured Sternum (Breastbone) Injury: FAQ

Can I claim compensation for a fractured sternum if the accident was my fault?

If the accident was entirely your fault, it may be challenging to claim compensation. However, if there was shared liability or if another party was partially responsible, you may still be eligible for compensation.

How long does it take to receive compensation for a fractured sternum claim?

The duration of the claims process can vary depending on the complexity of the case and whether liability is disputed. In some cases, settlements can be reached within a few months, while others may take longer, especially if the claim goes to court.

What evidence do I need to support my fractured sternum claim?

To support your claim, gather as much evidence as possible. This may include:

Accident reports

Witness statements

Medical records

Photographs of the accident scene

CCTV footage, if available

Can I claim compensation for a fractured sternum if the accident happened at work?

Yes, if the accident occurred due to the negligence of your employer or a co-worker, you may be able to claim compensation for your fractured sternum. It is important to consult with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in workplace accidents to assess the viability of your claim.

What if the insurance company offers me a settlement? Should I accept it?

It is crucial to consult with a personal injury lawyer before accepting any settlement offer from the insurance company. They can assess the offer and advise you on whether it is fair and reasonable based on the specifics of your case. Accepting a settlement without legal guidance may result in receiving less compensation than you deserve.

In conclusion, suffering a fractured sternum can be a painful and life-altering experience. If you have sustained this injury due to an accident that was not your fault, you may be entitled to claim compensation. By understanding the process of making a fractured sternum claim, seeking immediate medical attention, and gathering the necessary evidence, you can increase your chances of receiving a fair compensation payout.

Remember, every case is unique, and the compensation amount can vary based on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life. Consulting with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in fractured sternum claims is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you have any further questions or require legal assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to a qualified personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the claims process and provide the support you need during this challenging time.