A car accident can result in life-changing consequences. One minute, you are driving through White Plains or Yonkers. Next, you are in pain, struggling to walk, sit, or fall asleep, all because of a hip injury you did not expect. Hip injuries can be devastating, especially as you age. These injuries are typically very painful, slow to heal, and may be difficult to detect immediately following an accident.
If you plan to pursue a hip injury car accident settlement, it is crucial to understand how these claims work and what your recovery may involve. Fortunately, the experienced team at Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers understands the challenges of hip injury claims. We have successfully helped numerous New York clients recover compensation after serious collisions, including those collisions involving hip trauma. If you or a loved one is suffering from hip pain after a car accident, contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Common Types of Hip Injuries from Car Accidents
The hip is one of the largest weight-bearing joints in the human body, enabling mobility, balance, and proper posture. During a motor vehicle collision, your hip becomes susceptible to injuries from rapid force acceleration and blunt force trauma. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Fractures—a break in the upper part of the femur, often requiring surgery, pins, or even a hip replacement;
- Dislocations—when the head of the femur pops out of the socket, usually due to extreme impact;
- Labral tears—damage to the cartilage around the hip joint, which can lead to stiffness and long-term discomfort;
- Soft tissue injuries—sprains, strains, and bruising to the muscles and ligaments surrounding the hip; and
- Bursitis—inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the hip joint, which may develop over time.
Sometimes, symptoms of a hip injury do not appear immediately. Some people develop delayed hip pain following a car accident, which leads them to dismiss it as a muscle strain or normal muscle soreness. You must immediately see a doctor, especially when your pain becomes more severe after an accident. Failure to seek timely treatment could put you at risk for long-term damage.
What Causes Hip Injuries in a Crash?
Whether you were the driver, passenger, or even a pedestrian, certain types of collisions are more likely to result in hip injuries. The most common causes include:
- T-bone collisions, where the side of the body is exposed to a direct impact;
- Head-on crashes, causing forceful pressure from the seatbelt or dashboard;
- Rollover accidents, where bodies may twist or be thrown inside the vehicle; and
- Pedestrian or cyclist collisions resulting in direct impact to the lower body.
Even a low-speed crash can cause a hip injury from a car accident, especially for older adults or individuals with preexisting joint issues. Your injury does not have to include a broken bone to affect your ability to work, care for your family, or partake in everyday activities.
Signs of a Hip Injury After an Accident
If you were recently in a vehicle collision, be alert for these symptoms:
- Pain in the hip, groin, or thigh;
- Trouble walking or bearing weight;
- Swelling, bruising, or stiffness;
- Numbness or tingling in the leg;
- Clicking or catching when moving the joint; or
- Pain that worsens with activity.
These signs should never be ignored. Even if you think the pain is minor, your body may be trying to compensate for a more severe internal injury. Delaying treatment can complicate your prognosis and ability to recover fully.
Filing a Lawsuit for a Hip Injury in New York
If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, such as a distracted driver, a speeding motorist, or someone who ran a red light, you may be eligible to file a personal injury claim. In New York, the legal process can be complex, especially with the state’s no-fault insurance rules.
Here is how lawsuits typically work in New York:
- No-fault insurance coverage. New York drivers are required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP), which provides coverage for medical bills and lost wages, regardless of who caused the crash. This insurance is often your first source of financial support after an injury.
- Serious injury threshold. To file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, your injury must meet the state’s “serious injury” threshold. A fractured hip or the need for surgery usually qualifies.
- Negligence and liability. You must be able to prove that another party caused or contributed to the crash through negligent behavior. That can include running a stop sign, tailgating, or failing to yield.
- Compensation for damages. If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, physical therapy, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Every case differs. The value of your hip injury car accident settlement depends on many factors, including the severity of the injury, your long-term prognosis, liability, and available insurance coverage.
Why You Need to Hire an Attorney After a Hip Injury
Insurance company adjusters often try to minimize the value of soft tissue or joint injuries, especially if your symptoms are delayed. The representative may argue that your pain is unrelated to the accident or offer a low settlement before you know the full extent of your recovery. Their goal is a quick settlement that will save the company money in the long run.
At Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers, we assist by:
- Investigating the cause of your crash to determine liability,
- Gathering medical records and expert opinions to support your claim,
- Handling all communication with insurance companies,
- Seeking fair compensation for both current and future damages, and
- Making sure you understand every step of the legal process.
You should not have to worry about legal paperwork or reimbursement while trying to heal. We will take care of everything so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers Today
Greenspan & Greenspan Injury Lawyers has been a trusted name in personal injury law since 1959. Our deep roots in the suburbs of New York help us build long-standing relationships with clients and local communities. Our bilingual team proudly serves English and Spanish-speaking clients with personalized, one-on-one care.
Do not wait to get the legal support you need. Hip injuries can affect your mobility, income, and quality of life for years to come. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. If you are suffering from hip and pelvic pain after a car accident, you do not need to go through this alone. Greenspan & Greenspan is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.
