If you have suffered a torn ligament or tendon in a slip and fall accident, a Tampa slip and fall injury lawyer from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine may be able to make sure you understand your rights to pursue monetary compensation from the party that caused your injuries. We can discuss the circumstances surrounding your accident and whether you have a viable claim during a free case review. Contact us to get started.
Torn Ligaments and Tendons Explained
Ligaments are soft tissue structures and strong, flexible fibers that hold bones together and stabilize joints, while tendons are soft tissues that connect muscles to bone and allow the movement of joints, according to MedlinePlus. When a ligament or tendon tears or stretches too far, an injury can happen. Sprains can also occur when a joint moves past its natural position.
Types of Torn Ligaments and Tendons
Torn ligaments or tendons can limit the function of joints. While many joints can be affected by torn ligaments or tendons, knees tend to be the source of many of these injuries. For example, an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear impedes motion to the knee. A meniscus tear occurs in the rough knee cartilage between the shinbone and the thigh bone, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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Common Causes of Torn Ligaments and Tendons
One possible cause of torn tendons and ligaments is a traumatic injury, such as one that involves a sudden impact to the joint, an abrupt movement to the joint, or quickly starting or stopping. These injuries may be more common in accidents such as slip and falls.
Symptoms of Torn Ligaments or Tendons
The following are possible symptoms of torn ligaments or tendons:
- Pain and swelling
- Hearing or feeling a pop when you tear the tissue
- Popping or clicking sensation in the joint
- Inability to straighten the part of the body affected
- Joint stiffness
- Discoloration or bruising of the skin
Diagnosing a Torn Ligament or Tendon
If you believe that you have suffered a torn ligament or tendon, you should seek medical care immediately because swelling may impact your diagnosis. Your doctor will ask you questions about your injury to help make a diagnosis, including asking about how the injury occurred, whether you had any previous injuries to the same part of the body, and how intense your pain is. He or she may also collect your medical history, perform an exam, and may order an X-ray or MRI to confirm a diagnosis.
Treatment for Torn Ligaments or Tendons
Your treatment plan will depend on several factors, including your:
- Age
- Medical history
- Overall health
- The extent of the injury
- Your desired activity level
Treatment for torn ligaments or tendons may include:
- Using a brace
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Surgery
Compensation that May Be Available After a Slip and Fall
If you suffered a torn ligament or tendon in a slip and fall accident that was caused by another person’s negligence, you may have the right to be compensated for the full extent of the economic and non-economic harm you suffered, such as:
- Medical expenses stemming from the accident, including emergency room visits, hospitalization, surgery costs, prescription medication, physical therapy, and follow-up care
- Lost wages if you had to miss work due to your injuries
- Reduced earning capacity if you had to move to a less strenuous job due to your injuries
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
How a Tampa Torn Ligaments and Tendons Lawyer May Be Able to Help
Our lawyers may be able to help with your claim by:
Investigating the Accident
Our team will conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of your slip and fall accident. We will aim to identify all parties who are potentially liable for your accident and all potential sources of compensation.
Gathering Evidence
We may gather evidence of your accident to help establish liability, such as:
- Photos or videos of the accident scene
- Eyewitness statements
Reviewing Your Medical Records
We may also gather your medical records, talk about your injuries with your medical providers, and develop a strong understanding of how your injuries may impact your work and life. This will help us be better informed when negotiating a settlement for your claim.
Handling the Insurance Claim
We may handle all communication with the insurance company so that you can focus on your recovery. We can supplement the claim with vital information to ensure that all of your damages are taken into consideration. We will aim to strengthen your case and negotiate for a fair resolution of your claim.
Pursuing Legal Action
If it is not possible to secure a fair settlement through an insurance claim, we can discuss other options to pursue legal action, such as mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Whatever course you choose, we will make sure that you take the necessary legal action within the appropriate deadline. Our goal is to provide responsive legal assistance to you while you focus on your health.
Contact Our Team for Help with Your Claim
If you suffered a slip and fall injury or other personal injury accident, a Tampa torn ligaments and tendons lawyer from the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine may be able to discuss your rights and options for recovering compensation for your injuries. We want you to focus on your recovery while we handle the rest of your claim. Contact us today for a free consultation.
