Thomas C. Grajek | February 26, 2026 | Personal Injury
A broken bone can be extremely painful and disruptive. But does a fracture qualify as a catastrophic injury under Florida law? The answer depends on how severe the break is and how it affects your life. Some broken bones heal within weeks, while others can cause long-term complications, permanent damage, or disability.
If you suffered a broken bone in a car accident or another incident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Understanding whether your injury could be considered catastrophic is important when seeking full compensation.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury in Florida?
Florida law does not treat every injury the same. A catastrophic injury is generally one that causes permanent impairment, long-term disability, or major loss of bodily function.
Examples often include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Amputations
- Permanent paralysis
These injuries typically change a person’s life in lasting ways. They often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and sometimes lifelong support.
A simple fracture that heals without complications may not meet this standard. However, some broken bones can be far more serious.
When Can a Broken Bone Be Considered a Serious Injury?
Not all broken bones are minor. In fact, some fractures can lead to permanent damage, nerve problems, or limited mobility.
A broken bone may be considered a serious injury if it:
- Requires surgery or the insertion of hardware
- Causes permanent loss of movement or strength
- Results in chronic pain
- Leads to infection or complications
- Prevents you from returning to work
A compound fracture, where the bone breaks through the skin, is especially severe. These injuries carry a higher risk of infection and long-term complications.
The more lasting impact the fracture has on your daily life, the more likely it may be viewed as catastrophic.
How Car Accidents Often Cause Severe Fractures
A car accident is one of the most common causes of broken bones in Florida. High-speed collisions can generate enough force to break arms, legs, ribs, hips, and even the spine.
Victims may suffer:
- Multiple fractures
- Compound fractures
- Crushed bones
- Joint damage
These injuries often require emergency surgery, physical therapy, and extended recovery time. In severe cases, a fracture may never fully heal, leaving the victim with permanent impairment.
When a car accident leads to a serious injury like this, the financial consequences can be overwhelming.
Florida’s Serious Injury Threshold
Florida follows a no-fault insurance system for most car accident cases. This means your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage typically pays for initial medical expenses. However, to pursue compensation beyond PIP for pain and suffering, you must meet Florida’s “serious injury” threshold.
Under Florida Statute § 627.737, a serious injury includes:
- Significant and permanent loss of an important bodily function
- Permanent injury within a reasonable degree of medical probability
- Significant and permanent scarring or disfigurement
- Death
If your broken bone results in permanent impairment or loss of function, you may meet this threshold and be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Every case depends on medical evidence and the specific facts involved.
How Medical Evidence Affects Your Claim
Medical documentation plays a key role in determining whether a broken bone is catastrophic or simply temporary.
Important evidence may include:
- X-rays and imaging results
- Surgical reports
- Physician opinions about long-term impairment
- Physical therapy records
- Expert testimony about future limitations
A doctor’s opinion about whether your injury will cause permanent problems can greatly affect your claim.
Insurance companies often try to minimize fractures by arguing that they will fully heal. Strong medical evidence can help show the true impact of your serious injury.
Contact the Lakeland Personal Injury Lawyer at Grajek Law Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you suffered a broken bone in a car accident or another preventable incident, you deserve clear answers about your rights. What may seem like a simple fracture can sometimes qualify as a serious injury under Florida law.
For more information, please contact the Lakeland and New Port Richey catastrophic injury lawyers of Grajek Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Polk County, Pasco County, and their surrounding areas:
Grajek Law Personal Injury Lawyers Lakeland
2306 Florida Ave S Lakeland, FL 33803
(863)-999-9000