Knee injuries are among the most common and debilitating results of car accidents. The knee is a complex joint made up of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage, all of which are vulnerable to trauma during a crash. Even at low speeds, the sudden force of impact can twist, bend, or strike the knee in unnatural ways. For drivers and passengers alike, the knee is often positioned close to the dashboard, steering column, or door, making it especially prone to injury when collisions occur.
These injuries can range from mild sprains to severe fractures that require surgery. Beyond the physical pain, knee injuries can disrupt every aspect of daily life, including walking or holding down a job. Understanding the types of knee injuries that can result from a car accident is the first step toward securing the care and compensation you deserve.
Common Types of Knee Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents can cause a variety of knee injuries. Some are relatively minor, while others may permanently impact your quality of life. Some common conditions include:
Ligament Tears
The knee has four major ligaments — the ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL — that help stabilize the joint. During a car accident, the twisting forces of the crash or a direct blow can cause these ligaments to stretch or tear. An ACL or MCL tear is especially common and can lead to instability and significant pain. These injuries typically require surgery coupled with a lengthy period of recovery.
Meniscus Damage
The meniscus is the cushioning cartilage that sits between the thigh bone and shin bone. In a collision, sudden pressure or twisting can cause this cartilage to tear. A torn meniscus can make it difficult to fully straighten or bend the knee and often leads to persistent swelling and discomfort.
Fractures
The bones around the knee can also break during an accident. Direct impact with the dashboard or being pinned in a vehicle are common causes of fractures. While minor fractures may heal on their own with proper immobilization, more serious ones often require surgery. Fully healing from a bone fracture can take months.
Dislocations
In a dislocation, the bones of the knee are forced out of alignment. This is a serious injury that can damage ligaments, blood vessels, and nerves. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of traumatic knee dislocations, and immediate medical attention is always required to prevent permanent damage.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Even if no bones break, the muscles, tendons, and soft tissues around the knee can be stretched or strained in a collision. While often less severe than fractures or ligament tears, these injuries can still cause pain that lingers for months or even years.
What Are My Legal Options After a Knee Injury?
Not every knee injury results in financial compensation. That said, car accidents often happen because of an act of negligence. When your crash occurred due to another driver’s error, a vehicle defect, or some other mistake, you could be entitled to financial compensation following an accident.
There are generally two ways you can recover a monetary award following a car accident: a negotiated settlement or a trial verdict. Car accident injury claims are typically resolved through a settlement, but getting a fair offer from the other side is often easier said than done. The right attorney can help you overcome objections from the insurance company and get the recovery you deserve.
While uncommon, some cases go to trial when the two sides cannot reach an agreement. When litigation becomes necessary, an attorney can work to build the strongest case possible on your behalf.
Recovering Damages Related to a Knee Injury
Again, when another driver’s negligence causes your knee injury, you may have the right to pursue financial compensation. The goal of these damages is to cover both the immediate costs of your injury and the long-term impact it may have on your life. A successful claim can help you recover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
The right attorney can evaluate your case and answer questions about the types of damages available to you.
Did You Hurt Your Knee in a Car Crash?
Our car accident lawyers are here to help you seek justice following a serious knee injury. We are ready to serve as your advocate and aggressively pursue the damages you deserve. Contact us as soon as possible to set up your free consultation.
