How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Broken Humerus After a Crash?
Healing Time, Treatment Options, and Your Right to Compensation After a Humerus Fracture
The humerus is the long bone in your upper arm that connects the shoulder to the elbow. In high-impact events like car crashes, it’s especially vulnerable to fractures, whether from a direct blow, forceful twisting, or bracing during a collision.
At the Law Offices of Gary Martin Hays & Associates, P.C., our Georgia car accident lawyers understand the incredible pain that comes with a broken humerus. With symptoms that include swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the arm, such an injury can be extraordinarily difficult to deal with.
For crash victims, a humerus fracture doesn’t just hurt — it disrupts everyday life. From showering to driving, nearly every task becomes a challenge. That’s why if you or a loved one suffered a broken humerus in a crash caused by someone else, it’s important to consult an attorney who can help you fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
How Long Does It Take for a Broken Humerus to Heal?
Recovery time for a broken humerus depends on the severity and location of the fracture, your age, your overall health, and whether surgery is required. On average:
- Mild, non-displaced fractures can take 8–12 weeks
- Moderate fractures (may require bracing or slings) can take 3–4 months
- Severe or displaced fractures with surgery can take 4–6 months or more
Some patients regain partial function earlier, but full strength and range of motion often take several months to return, especially with post-surgical recovery.
What Are the Most Common Types of Humerus Fractures?
Not all humerus breaks are the same. The type of fracture significantly impacts both treatment and recovery time.
- Proximal Humerus Fracture: Occurs near the shoulder. Common in side-impact or rollover crashes. May involve rotator cuff injuries.
- Midshaft Humerus Fracture: A break along the middle of the bone, often caused by blunt force trauma. It may heal with immobilization, but it can require surgery if displaced.
- Distal Humerus Fracture: A break near the elbow, more common in high-energy crashes. These often need surgical repair and have longer recovery times due to joint involvement.
When Is Surgery Required for a Broken Humerus?
Surgery is often necessary when the bone fragments are displaced, unstable, or if the fracture involves a joint. Procedures typically involve internal fixation using plates, screws, or rods.
Recovery after surgery is longer and more involved. You may wear a sling for weeks, followed by a lengthy physical therapy program. Surgical complications like nerve damage, infection, or nonunion (when the bone doesn’t heal properly) can further delay recovery.
How Does a Broken Humerus Affect Daily Life?
A broken humerus severely impacts your independence and ability to work. Common effects include:
- Loss of Mobility: Limited use of the dominant arm affects tasks like dressing, eating, or lifting.
- Chronic Pain: Even after healing, some patients experience lasting discomfort or nerve sensitivity.
- Emotional Toll: Frustration, loss of routine, and reliance on others can take a psychological toll.
- Extended Time Off Work: Laborers, drivers, and those with physical jobs may be unable to work for months.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Broken Humerus After a Crash?
There’s no fixed settlement amount for a broken humerus. However, these injuries are considered serious and can result in substantial compensation, especially when surgery or long-term disability is involved. Settlement values often depend on:
- Severity of the Break: A clean break may settle for less than a multi-fragment fracture needing surgery.
- Medical Expenses: Hospitalization, surgery, rehab, and follow-ups add up quickly.
- Lost Income: Time off work — and loss of future earning potential — plays a big role.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life can increase the value.
- Permanent Limitations: If the injury causes reduced function or chronic pain, it may justify a higher settlement.
In many cases, broken humerus settlements range from tens of thousands to well over $100,000, depending on the facts. If another driver caused your crash, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden alone.
What Should You Do After Suffering a Humerus Fracture in a Crash?
If you suspect you’ve broken your humerus in a crash, the first priority is getting medical treatment. After that, here’s what you should do:
- Follow Medical Advice: Keep all appointments, follow physical therapy instructions, and document your recovery process.
- Avoid Giving Statements to the Insurance Company: Their goal is to minimize payouts. Speak with a lawyer first.
- Keep Track of Expenses: Save all receipts for medical care, prescriptions, equipment, and travel to appointments.
- Document Lost Wages: Request documentation from your employer showing time missed and lost income.
- Consult a Car Accident Lawyer: A personal injury attorney can assess the value of your claim, deal with the insurance company, and protect your rights throughout the process.
How Can a Lawyer Help With Your Broken Humerus Injury Claim?
When you’re dealing with pain, stress, and financial uncertainty, having a trusted advocate on your side matters. A personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the crash and prove the other party’s negligence
- Work with medical professionals to document your injury and prognosis
- Calculate the full value of your damages — not just the immediate medical bills
- Negotiate with the insurance company or take your case to trial if needed
You shouldn’t have to settle for less than you deserve. Insurance companies often make lowball offers, especially early in the process. Don’t let them take advantage of your situation.
Why Choose Gary Martin Hays & Associates?
At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we know what’s at stake for crash victims with broken bones. A broken humerus isn’t just a temporary setback — it can derail your life. We’ve recovered over $1 billion for Georgia families, and we don’t back down from a fight.
From the moment you contact us, we’ll take your case seriously. We’ll handle the paperwork, investigate the crash, and fight to get you every dollar you’re owed — so you can focus on healing.
Talk to a Georgia Car Accident Lawyer Today
You don’t have to navigate this process alone. If you broke your humerus in a crash caused by someone else, we’re ready to help. At Gary Martin Hays & Associates, we take your injury personally. We’ll demand accountability and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Contact us today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
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