Pelvic Fracture from a Maritime Accident

A pelvic fracture is a serious injury that is often caused by a maritime accident. The pelvis, which is a bone structure at the end of the trunk, cradles many organs. That is why a fractured pelvis can lead to significant internal bleeding, organ damage, nerve injury and death. If you or someone you love has suffered a pelvic fracture from an offshore accident, you may be entitled to compensation under the Jones Act or General Maritime Law.

One of the most common causes of pelvic fractures is falls. A fall from a substantial height is considered to be a high-energy force and may lead to a life-threatening broken pelvis. As most seamen know, the possibility of a fall accident on a vessel is a major hazard of working on the sea. Slippery decks, broken stairs, worn out ladders and other dangers can result in a traumatic fall accident aboard a vessel.

Typically, a broken pelvis becomes swollen and bruised and is incredibly painful. Also, these types of fractures can cause excessive bleeding, leading to shock. Someone who has suffered a broken pelvis must seek emergency medical attention, so that the injury does not prove to be fatal.

Certain diagnostic tests, such as x-rays and CT scans, are used to determine if a patient has a fractured pelvis. In some cases, surgery is required after the pelvis is stabilized. Doctors often use an external fixator to stabilize the pelvic area, which is a device with long screws that are placed in the bones on each side and then connected to a frame outside of the body. This device allows doctors to focus on any internal injuries to blood vessels, nerves and organs.

If you have sustained a pelvic fracture or some other type of maritime injury, you should contact an experienced maritime injury lawyer today. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries.