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How soon can you drive after breaking a limb?

On Behalf of | Nov 15, 2022 | Car Accidents

An injury to a limb can make getting around more difficult. Hence you may assume you will need to use your car more than ever. 

Before you hop or crawl into the driver’s seat, consider whether it is such a good idea. Or whether, despite the inconvenience, you need to look at other options, such as public transport, taxis, or letting someone else shuttle you around.

It might make it harder to heal

Let’s say you broke your leg. The doctor has probably told you to rest it up and avoid doing anything strenuous. Sitting in the driver’s seat is not in itself strenuous (although getting there might be). Pushing the pedals is. Braking, in particular, requires you to exert considerable force. Doing so will not help your leg to heal. 

Similar logic applies if your arm or shoulder is injured. Holding and moving a wheel requires strength and, at times, effort. You may need to give the wheel a stiff pull to one side to avoid an obstacle in the road. You could overexert yourself in the process, meaning that your injury will take longer to heal.

It might lead to more injuries

Your lack of ability to drive with full use of your body makes it more likely you crash. If you cannot brake quickly enough because your leg is weak or because pushing the pedal hurts, you might crash into someone or something you would normally have avoided. You could cause them serious injuries and worsen, and add to, your own in the process.

If you notice someone already has a plaster cast or bandage on when they step out of the car after a collision, consider if that is why they crashed into you. Investigating all possible causes will be crucial to getting compensated.