Average Settlement for a Broken Bone in a Car Accident

By Matthew Novian | Mar 24, 2025 | Catastrophic Injury

Car accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, with broken bones being among the most common. The financial impact of a fracture can be significant, from medical bills to lost wages and long-term rehabilitation. 

While settlement amounts vary, typical payouts for broken bones in car accidents range from $15,000 to $150,000 or more, depending on the severity of the injury and circumstances of the case. More severe fractures requiring surgery or leading to permanent disability can result in settlements reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.

If you or a loved one suffered a broken bone in a car accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Novian & Novian, we have expert catastrophic injury lawyers in California with over 35 years experience in helping clients maximize their settlements. Schedule a free initial consultation today to speak with a rear-end accident lawyer.

In this blog, you will learn the average settlement for broken bones in a car accident. You will also learn factors that affect broken bone injury settlement value. 

Overview of Broken Bone Injury Cases from Car Accidents

Car accidents are one of the leading causes of serious injuries, with broken bones being among the most common. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), millions of people suffer fractures each year due to car crashes. The force of impact in an accident can place immense stress on the body, leading to painful bone fractures that require extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and sometimes even surgery. 

Broken bones, also known as bone fractures, vary in severity depending on the nature of the accident. A simple fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not pierce the skin, while a compound fracture is more severe, involving an open wound where the bone protrudes.

Hairline fractures are minor cracks in the bone that can still cause significant pain and mobility issues. In contrast, comminuted fractures occur when a bone shatters into multiple fragments, often requiring surgical intervention. These injuries can result from various types of car accidents, including rear-end collisions and pedestrian accidents, where the body absorbs a tremendous amount of force upon impact.

Broken bone injuries can have lasting effects beyond the initial pain and suffering. Many accident victims face mobility issues, requiring extensive physical therapy to regain function. Chronic pain is also a frequent consequence, especially in cases of severe fractures or comminuted fractures that involve bone shatters. 

Some individuals require multiple surgeries, and complications such as nerve damage or infections can arise, increasing medical expenses. In catastrophic injury cases, fractures involving the spine or pelvis can lead to permanent disability, impacting an individual’s ability to work and earn future wages. The financial strain of medical bills, lost wages, and ongoing treatment underscores the importance of seeking fair settlement compensation.

Common Types of Bone Fractures in Car Accidents

Certain bones are more vulnerable to breaking in a crash. They include:

• Arm and Wrist Fractures – They frequently occur as accident victims instinctively brace for impact.

• Leg and Ankle Fractures – These result from forceful contact with the dashboard or other car interiors.

• Rib Fractures – They can be caused by the pressure of a seatbelt or impact with the steering wheel.

• Clavicle (Collarbone) Fractures – Vulnerable in high-impact collisions.

• Pelvic Fractures – Typically seen in severe crashes or side-impact collisions.

• Facial Fractures – Caused by airbag deployment or hitting the dashboard.

• Spinal Fractures – This is a catastrophic injury that can result from whiplash or significant trauma. 

Average Settlement for Broken Bones in a Car Accident

Broken bones are among the most common serious injuries sustained in car accidents, and settlement amounts can vary significantly depending on several factors. In personal injury claims involving broken bones, settlements can range from $15,000 to over $150,000, depending on the extent of the injury and required medical treatment.

For minor fractures, where the victim requires medical treatment but no surgery, settlement amounts typically range between $15,000 and $50,000. These cases may involve broken ribs, hairline fractures, or simple bone breaks that heal without significant long-term complications.

On the other hand, moderate fractures requiring surgery, such as a broken leg, broken arm, or pelvic fracture, generally fall between $50,000 and $150,000. These injuries often require extensive treatment, including physical therapy and rehabilitation, to regain full mobility.

Severe fractures with complications, such as comminuted fractures, multiple vertebrae fractures, or injuries leading to permanent disability, can exceed $150,000. Cases involving chronic pain, bone shatters, or extensive medical intervention often result in higher compensation due to long-term medical bills, future lost wages, and pain and suffering compensation.

Average settlement in 2024/2025 for specific fractures: 

• Broken leg: The average settlement for a broken leg in a car accident typically ranges between $50,000 and $250,000, depending on the severity of the break and whether surgery is required. More severe femur fractures can push settlements to the higher end of this range.

• Broken arm: For a broken arm, settlement values usually fall between $30,000 and $100,000, depending on complications such as nerve damage or multiple fractures.

• Broken elbow: A broken elbow can result in settlements ranging from $40,000 to $125,000, particularly if it requires surgery or causes significant mobility issues.

• Broken ribs: Cases involving broken ribs often lead to settlements of $15,000 to $50,000, as these injuries can be painful but typically heal without surgery. However, if complications arise, such as punctured lungs, the settlement may increase.

• Broken foot: A broken foot may result in compensation between $20,000 and $90,000, with higher settlements for injuries affecting long-term mobility or requiring surgical intervention.

• Broken vertebrae: For broken vertebrae, settlements can range from $100,000 to over $500,000, especially in cases where spinal fractures lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, or the need for ongoing medical treatment.

How Settlement Amounts for Broken Bone Injuries Vary

State laws play a big role in determining how much compensation an accident victim can receive for broken bone injuries. In fault-based states, the at-fault driver’s insurance typically covers damages, while in no-fault states, victims may need to rely on their own insurance coverage unless the injury is severe enough to surpass legal thresholds for filing a lawsuit.

Some states impose caps on damages, particularly for pain and suffering compensation, which can limit payouts. For example, California does not have a cap on economic or non-economic damages in personal injury cases, meaning victims can seek full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, in Florida, non-economic damages are sometimes capped in medical malpractice cases, although this does not apply to standard car accident cases.

The average settlement in California for a broken bone in a car accident varies widely, but moderate to severe fractures often result in payouts of $50,000 to over $250,000. In Texas, where modified comparative negligence laws apply, settlements depend on the percentage of fault assigned to each party. Severe fractures in Texas can lead to settlements exceeding $200,000, especially in catastrophic injury cases. 

In New York, which follows a no-fault system, victims must meet the state’s serious injury threshold to seek full compensation. Generally, severe fractures typically settle for $75,000 to over $300,000. Florida follows a similar system, with settlements for severe fractures often falling between $50,000 and $200,000, depending on medical expenses and long-term consequences.

Factors That Affect Broken Bone Injury Settlement Value

When a person suffers broken bone injuries in a car accident, the settlement value depends on several key factors. These factors include:

Severity of the Injury

The severity of a broken bone injury significantly impacts the settlement amount. Minor fractures, such as hairline fractures or simple breaks that heal without complications, typically result in lower settlements. In contrast, severe fractures, including comminuted fractures or multiple vertebrae fractures, can lead to significantly higher compensation due to the long-term consequences they impose. When an injury requires extensive medical treatment, such as surgery, physical therapy, or prolonged hospitalization, the settlement value increases to account for these expenses.

Chronic pain and mobility issues caused by broken bones can also raise the final settlement amount. Severe fractures in weight-bearing bones, such as femur fractures or hip fractures, can cause permanent disability, further increasing compensation. Similarly, injuries that result in nerve damage or significant pain may justify additional pain and suffering compensation.

Location of the Fracture

The location of the fracture plays a big role in determining settlement value. Some bones, such as those in the legs, pelvis, or spine, are essential for movement and stability. A broken pelvis, for example, can severely impact a person’s ability to walk, resulting in higher medical expenses and long-term consequences. In such cases, settlement amounts are often on the higher end of the payout range.

Facial fractures, such as broken nose or jaw fractures, can lead to significant medical treatment, including reconstructive surgery. Rib fractures, while typically less severe, can be extremely painful and may lead to complications such as punctured lungs. Spinal fractures, on the other hand, are among the most serious injuries, as they can result in permanent disability or even paralysis. These injuries not only affect mobility but can also prevent victims from performing daily activities, leading to substantial compensation for lost wages and ongoing medical treatment.

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses are a major factor in calculating broken bone settlements. Victims of car accidents often require emergency medical treatment, including X-rays, CT scans, and orthopedic evaluations. The cost of hospitalization, surgical procedures, and post-operative care can quickly add up, influencing the final settlement amount.

For severe fractures, multiple surgeries may be required, along with extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. Ongoing medical care, such as follow-up appointments, pain management, and home modifications for mobility issues, also contribute to higher settlement values. Medical bills for broken bones can range from thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the injury and the required treatment. The more extensive the treatment, the greater the compensation amount victims may be entitled to receive.

Lost Wages and Future Earning Potential

Broken bone injuries can lead to significant time away from work, impacting a victim’s income. The settlement amount considers the wages lost during recovery, as well as the potential future loss of earnings if the injury prevents the victim from returning to their previous job. A broken arm or wrist, for example, may make it difficult for an office worker to type, while a severe leg injury could prevent a construction worker from performing their duties.

In cases where the injury leads to long-term disability, settlements can account for future lost wages and diminished earning capacity. If an accident victim is unable to continue working in their chosen profession or must switch to a lower-paying job due to mobility issues, the settlement value increases to reflect the financial impact of the injury.

Pain and Suffering Damages

Beyond medical expenses and lost wages, pain and suffering compensation is a significant factor in determining the final settlement. Physical pain from broken bone injuries can be severe and long-lasting, particularly in cases involving nerve damage or multiple fractures. Chronic pain, limited mobility, and emotional distress all contribute to non-economic damages in personal injury cases.

Emotional trauma, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can also play a role in settlement negotiations. Victims who experience a reduced quality of life due to their injuries may receive higher compensation. The legal process considers both the physical and emotional suffering endured by accident victims when calculating pain and suffering damages.

Liability and Fault in the Accident

Liability plays a crucial role in determining settlement amounts. In states with comparative negligence laws, the amount a victim can recover depends on their percentage of fault in the accident. If the victim is found partially responsible for the crash, their compensation may be reduced accordingly. For example, in states like Texas and California, if a victim is deemed 20% at fault for the accident, their settlement will be reduced by 20%.

Proving fault in a car accident case requires strong evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and medical records. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help gather the necessary documentation to establish liability and maximize compensation. Victims who can prove that another driver’s negligence directly caused their injuries have a higher chance of receiving full compensation.

Insurance Coverage and Policy Limits

The at-fault driver’s insurance coverage significantly impacts the final settlement amount. In cases where the responsible party carries high policy limits, victims may receive full compensation for their medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. However, if the at-fault driver has minimal insurance coverage or is uninsured, the settlement amount may be limited.

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help accident victims recover compensation when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage. Victims who have their own uninsured motorist insurance may be able to seek compensation from their insurance provider to cover medical expenses and other damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can help navigate these insurance claims and ensure that accident victims receive the maximum possible compensation.

How to Get the Best Possible Outcome

The first step is seeking immediate medical attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment not only promote faster healing but also create essential medical records that serve as evidence in your personal injury case. If a fracture requires surgery, physical therapy, or long-term medical treatment, following all recommendations from healthcare providers is necessary to demonstrate the seriousness of the injury. Insurance companies often argue that gaps in treatment indicate a minor injury, so consistency in medical care is key.

In addition to following medical advice, documenting injuries, medical expenses, and pain levels is necessary. Keeping track of hospital bills, physical therapy costs, and ongoing treatments such as rehabilitation helps prove the financial impact of the injury. Beyond financial losses, recording daily pain levels and limitations in mobility can strengthen pain and suffering compensation claims. Victims with severe injuries such as femur fractures, broken ribs, or hip fractures often face long recovery periods with lasting effects. Therefore, making detailed records is essential in maximizing broken bone settlement amounts.

Hiring a personal injury lawyer is another important step. Experienced personal injury attorneys understand how to assess average settlements for broken bone injuries, ensuring that accident victims do not accept low offers from insurance companies. Legal representation is particularly valuable when insurance coverage disputes arise, such as in cases involving uninsured or underinsured motorists. Attorneys can also calculate future lost wages and medical expenses, ensuring that the final settlement amount accounts for both immediate and long-term damages.

When negotiating with insurance companies, accident victims should be prepared for low initial offers. Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts, arguing that injuries are not as severe as claimed. Fighting for a fair settlement requires strong counterarguments backed by medical records, expert opinions, and legal support. Victims should avoid signing settlement agreements too soon, as doing so may prevent them from recovering compensation for chronic pain, permanent disability, or future medical expenses related to severe fractures or multiple vertebrae fractures.

How an Attorney Can Help Maximize Your Settlement

Legal expertise is one of the biggest advantages of hiring an attorney. Understanding car accident settlement laws, comparative negligence rules, and insurance policies is essential to securing a fair settlement. It’s best to work with attorneys who specialize in handling personal injury claims and who are skilled in countering tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts.

Evidence gathering is another critical role attorneys play. To prove the extent of a broken bone injury, an attorney can collect essential documentation such as X-rays, doctor’s reports, surgery records, and physical therapy progress notes. In cases involving broken leg injuries, broken arms, or facial bone fractures, attorneys may also obtain expert medical opinions to demonstrate the long-term impact of the injury. Comprehensive evidence is key to securing the highest possible settlement value.

Attorneys also specialize in fighting for fair compensation. Many accident victims underestimate the settlement amounts they are entitled to receive, accepting early offers from insurance adjusters. A skilled lawyer makes sure that all damages, including past and future medical costs, pain and suffering, and future lost wages are accounted for.

In cases where insurance companies refuse to offer a reasonable settlement, attorneys handle disputes and negotiations. If a low settlement is presented, legal professionals can push back with stronger evidence and, if necessary, take the case to court. Cases of car accidents that result in severe fractures, multiple fractures, or permanent disabilities typically necessitate assertive legal measures to guarantee that victims obtain the comprehensive compensation they are entitled to.

At Novian & Novian, we specialize in personal injury cases, helping clients fight for fair settlements and the compensation they deserve. Contact us today!

Need Legal Help for Your Personal Injury Claim?

When dealing with a broken bone injury from a car accident or another personal injury case, securing a fair settlement depends on several key factors. The severity of the injury, including whether it involves severe fractures, multiple fractures, or permanent disability, plays a major role in determining the settlement value.

Navigating the settlement process without an experienced personal injury attorney can lead to undervalued compensation. Insurance companies frequently offer low settlements, hoping accident victims will accept less than they deserve. An experienced attorney ensures that all medical bills, future lost wages, and pain and suffering damages are properly accounted for.

If you or a loved one has suffered broken bones in an accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve. At Novian & Novian, we specialize in personal injury claims. Our personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles help clients fight for fair compensation. Contact us now for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Broken Bone Injury Cases

What Is the Average Settlement for a Broken Bone in a Car Accident in California?

The average settlement for a broken bone in a car accident in California typically ranges from $15,000 to over $150,000, depending on the severity of the injury, medical expenses, and impact on daily life.

How Much Does Car Insurance Pay for Broken Bones?

Car insurance payouts for broken bone injuries depend on the at-fault driver’s policy limits and the severity of the injury. If damages exceed the at-fault driver’s coverage, victims may need to file a claim through uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or pursue legal action.

How Are Pain and Suffering Calculated for Broken Bone Settlements?

Pain and suffering compensation is calculated based on the severity of the injury, recovery time, and long-term effects such as chronic pain or permanent disability. Some settlements use a multiplier method, where medical expenses are multiplied by a factor (typically 1.5 to 5) depending on the injury’s impact.

How Long Does It Take To Get a Settlement for a Broken Bone Injury?

A broken bone settlement can take anywhere from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case, medical treatment duration, and insurance company negotiations. Cases involving severe fractures or disputed liability may take longer if litigation is required.

Can I Receive Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

Yes, you can. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can still receive compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your settlement amount will be reduced by your percentage of fault, meaning a $100,000 settlement could be reduced to $70,000 if you were 30% responsible.

What Happens if the At-Fault Driver Doesn’t Have Insurance?

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. A personal injury lawyer can also help explore other legal options, such as filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.