Clavicle Fractures

A clavicle fracture is a break in the collarbone, a long, thin bone that connects the shoulder to the breastbone. It commonly occurs due to falls onto the shoulder, direct impacts, or vehicle-related accidents. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the arm. The fracture may cause a visible bump or deformity at the site of the break. Treatment typically involves immobilisation with a sling, pain management, and physiotherapy, though severe cases may require surgery to realign the bone. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the fracture. In scenarios where there is proof that a negligent third party caused this injury, it may be possible to bring a personal injury compensation claim.

What sort of workplace negligence can result in this injury?

Workplace negligence leading to clavicle fractures can occur when safety measures are not properly enforced. This includes failing to provide appropriate personal protective equipment, such as helmets or safety harnesses, and neglecting to maintain clean, hazard-free environments. Slips, trips, and falls on wet or uneven surfaces are common causes, as are falls from heights due to inadequate fall protection. Poorly maintained machinery or equipment, and lack of proper training on safe handling of tools or heavy objects, can also contribute to accidents resulting in clavicle fractures. Inadequate supervision or failure to follow safety regulations further increases the risk.

Common causes of clavicle fractures include poor road safety, such as reckless driving, speeding, or failure to maintain vehicles, leading to collisions. In public spaces, inadequate maintenance of pathways, like unmarked hazards, uneven surfaces, or slippery conditions, can result in falls. Negligence during sports activities, such as lack of protective gear, improper supervision, or unsafe playing conditions, also increases the risk. Inadequate safety measures in recreational areas, including faulty equipment or insufficient warning signs, can further contribute to accidents causing this type of fracture.

What compensation can be claimed?

The Judicial Council provides an approximate indication of general damages awards in their Personal Injuries Guidelines. Page 34 of this PDF outlines the range for minor shoulder injuries, including simple fractures of the clavicle where full recovery is expected to take place within two years. These sorts of injuries may result in general damages awards of up to €12,000. Serious fractures causing significant ongoing health issues may result a far higher compensation award. Successful claims may also result in special damages to cover the cost of out of pocket expenses such as lost earnings and medical bills.