Bicycle v. Auto: Clavicle Fracture

This was a difficult case with a client who was riding his bike, when the defendant swung open their car door. As a result, our client flew from his bike onto the pavement, and sustained a clavicle fracture. Treatment was relatively limited with only 8 doctor’s visits, as his only non-surgical option was to wear […]

This was a difficult case with a client who was riding his bike, when the defendant swung open their car door. As a result, our client flew from his bike onto the pavement, and sustained a clavicle fracture. Treatment was relatively limited with only 8 doctor’s visits, as his only non-surgical option was to wear a sling. As such, his medical bills were very low.

After getting to know our client, the negotiating attorney was able to argue to the adjuster how this injury affected client’s work in IT, especially only being able to type with one hand. Clearly, this had a huge impact on his job performance. Additionally, our client had a newborn at home, so carrying her was extremely difficult. He was also taking care of his ill father. Needless to say he was a very sympathetic client. Despite his limited treatment and low medical bills, we were able to secure the policy limits from the at-fault party’s insurance company and more money from our client’s underinsured motorist coverage. As a result of our efforts, our client netted 50% of the total settlement.