Complex Orthopaedic Injury Solicitors

Our serious injury solicitors specialise in supporting people who have been impacted by complex orthopaedic injuries. Find out more about how we could help you or your loved one.

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Complex Orthopaedic Injury

No win, no fee. There will be no financial risk to you – even if your claim is not successful.

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Our complex orthopaedic injury specialists are here to help

We understand the impact complex orthopaedic injuries can have on your life, and the hardships that can follow depending on the severity of your injury. That’s why it’s important to contact our team as soon as possible, to make sure you receive the appropriate legal guidance and ongoing rehabilitative support.

What is a complex orthopaedic injury?

A complex orthopaedic injury is an injury to your musculoskeletal system, and can range from serious bone breaks and fractures, to ligament, tendon or muscle damage in the joints. Your complex orthopaedic injury may need complicated surgical treatment, depending on your circumstances.

Depending on how serious your complex orthopaedic injury is, it may affect your life differently in terms of your mobility, working arrangements, personal life and general day-to-day.

What are the causes of a complex orthopaedic injury?

  • Road traffic accidents: If you’re involved in a collision involving a car, bus, or other vehicle, you may sustain a complex orthopaedic injury depending on the impact of the collision. Pedestrians and motorcycle/bicycle riders may also sustain orthopaedic damage in these collisions.
  • Accidents at work: If you have an accident at work involving dangerous equipment or heavy machinery, you may sustain orthopaedic damage depending on the severity of the accident. Common workplace orthopaedic injuries include bone breaks and fractures.
  • Medical negligence: Sometimes there can be instances of medical negligence during treatment for a complex orthopaedic injury. The impact of this can differ depending on individual circumstances, and might include nerve damage, blood clots or in more serious cases, the need for amputation.

What’s the time limit for bringing a complex orthopaedic injury claim?

Normally you have three years from the date of your complex orthopaedic injury, or reasonable knowledge of your injury to bring a claim for compensation. There are some exceptions to this rule; for instance, where the matter involves a child. In this case the child has three years from the date of their 18th birthday to bring a claim, therefore expiring on their 21st birthday.

How are complex orthopaedic injuries treated?

The treatment you receive for your complex orthopaedic injury will differ depending on your circumstances, but usual treatment can include:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Pain management
  • Rehabilitation
  • Surgery
  • Casts or splints

Call us free today to see how you can get started
0808 164 0808

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complex orthopaedic injury frequently asked questions

Can I claim for a complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
If your complex orthopaedic injury was caused by the fault of someone else, you may be able to bring a claim. It will also depend on where your injury occurred, e.g. at work, in a medical setting, or in a road traffic collision. The compensation awarded will also depend on these circumstances. If you want to talk to us about a potential complex orthopaedic injury claim, don't hesitate to call us free or fill out the contact form.

How does a complex orthopaedic injury claim work? toggle accordion
Starting a claim after a complex orthopaedic injury can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re focusing on your recovery. While every case is unique, the claims process follows a structured and logical approach. Before we can consider compensation, we first need to establish that someone else was legally responsible for your injury. By approaching your claim step by step, we handle it properly from the beginning. Your claim is usually considered in two main stages:
  1. Establishing who was at fault: this is the foundation of your claim. We gather evidence to show that another party owed you a duty of care. Such a party may be an employer, a road user, or a medical professional. If they failed to meet that duty and their actions led to your injury or amputation, we can support you in your claim.
  2. Assessing the full impact of your injury. Once we establish liability, we evaluate how your injury affects your daily life. This includes compensation for the pain and suffering you have experienced, as well as the financial impact. We assess losses such as reduced or lost earnings, the cost of specialist treatment or prosthetics, rehabilitation, and any home or lifestyle adaptations you may need.

How much does it cost to make a claim for complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
It’s natural to have concerns about the cost of making a claim. particularly if you’re already dealing with pain, recovery or time off work. No two claims are the same, and we will make sure you are kept up to date on compensation throughout.

What proof is necessary to bring a complex orthopaedic injury claim? toggle accordion
First, we need to prove liability. This isn’t about placing blame, but about showing that someone was legally negligent. To do this, we need to prove that another party owed you a duty of care. We also need to show they failed in that duty, and that their failure directly caused your injury. Evidence may include accident reports, photographs, witness statements, or safety and maintenance records. Securing this information as early as possible can make a real difference to your claim. Once liability has been established, the focus shifts to the impact of your injury and what you will need going forward. This includes compensation for specialist treatment, physio, rehabilitation, pain management, future care, and any loss of earnings. We work with independent medical experts to understand your long-term needs. We also work with them to produce detailed reports outlining the support you may require for the future.

What happens if the injured person lacks capacity? toggle accordion
If the injured person lacks the mental capacity to manage their own affairs, a claim can still be made on their behalf. In these situations, the court can appoint a litigation friend, often a family member or close friend, to act in the injured person’s best interests throughout the claim. The litigation friend makes decisions on the claim, gives instructions to solicitors and ensures the injured person is properly supported. Where capacity is unlikely to return, additional protections can be put in place, including court approval of any settlement. This ensures compensation is managed appropriately to meet the injured person’s long‑term care, treatment and support needs.

Can I make a claim if my child has suffered a complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
If your child has suffered a complex orthopaedic injury, you may be able to bring a claim on their behalf. Because a child cannot bring a claim themselves, a parent or trusted adult acts on their behalf as a litigation friend. The aim is to secure the resources your child may need, both now and in the future, so they can move forward with confidence.

What time limits apply to a complex orthopaedic injury claim? toggle accordion
Most complex orthopaedic injury claims must be started within three years. This is known as the limitation period and usually begins on the date the injury occurred. In some cases, the time limit may start later. If you were not immediately aware that your injury was linked to someone else’s actions, for example in cases of delayed diagnosis or treatment, the three‑year period may begin from the date of knowledge instead. Different rules apply for children and vulnerable adults. For anyone under 18, the time limit does not begin until their 18th birthday. For people who lack mental capacity, the time limit does not run while they remain without capacity. Because these rules can be complex, early legal advice can help ensure your right to claim is protected. Subject to liability being established, we make sure you have rehabilitation and interim payments to help you make the best possible recovery.

What evidence is required for a complex orthopaedic injury claim? toggle accordion
If you’ve suffered a complex orthopaedic injury, collecting the right evidence as early as possible can make a real difference to your claim. If you are able, take photographs or videos of the accident scene, the cause of the injury, and the injuries themselves. Visual evidence provides a clear and reliable record of what happened and can be invaluable when establishing how the injury occurred. If there were any witnesses, try to note their names and contact details. It’s also important that the incident is formally reported. Road traffic accidents should be reported to the police, while injuries at work should be recorded in the employer’s accident book. This creates an official record and a clear timeline, which form an important part of building a strong complex orthopaedic injury claim.

Can family members claim compensation for the support they provide after a complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
When someone suffers a complex orthopaedic injury, the support they receive from family and friends can be vital to their recovery. The law recognises this contribution, and the care you provide can be reflected within their compensation claim through what is known as a gratuitous care claim. This type of claim acknowledges the unpaid care and assistance given by loved ones, often over long periods of time. It can cover a wide range of support, including help with personal care, dressing, preparing meals, household tasks, attending medical appointments, or providing assistance during rehabilitation and recovery. Including gratuitous care in a complex orthopaedic injury claim helps ensure that the full impact of the injury is reflected, not just on the injured person, but on those supporting them every day.

Can I bring a personal injury claim for a complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
If you are considering a personal injury claim following a complex orthopaedic injury, we will be able to advise you when we take details from you.

What compensation could I receive for a complex orthopaedic injury? toggle accordion
The amount of compensation you may receive will depend entirely on your individual circumstances. Every complex orthopaedic injury claim is different, and many factors will be considered when calculating compensation. These can include the severity of your injury, the time needed for rehabilitation, any loss of income, and whether adaptations to your home or ongoing support are required as a result of the injury. Once your case has been fully assessed, including a review of your medical records and expert evidence, your solicitor will be able to give clearer guidance on the level of compensation you may be entitled to claim.

Why choose Lime for my complex orthopaedic injury claim? toggle accordion
Our specialist personal injury team has extensive experience supporting individuals and families affected by life‑changing complex orthopaedic injuries caused by accidents or negligence. We understand how overwhelming this time can be, which is why we take a sensitive, practical approach to every claim. Our solicitors are experienced in handling complex cases and are committed to securing the compensation needed to support your recovery, rehabilitation and future. We’ll take the time to understand how your injury has affected your life. Then, we tailor our approach to suit your individual circumstances. Whether you’re seeking guidance for yourself or on behalf of a loved one, our team is here to offer clear advice and dedicated support every step of the way. If you’d like to find out how we can help, you can call us free on 0808 164 0808 or request a call back, and a member of our team will be in touch at a time that works for you.

Will I need to go to court? toggle accordion
Most complex orthopaedic injury claims are resolved without the need to attend court. However, if court proceedings do become necessary, you will be fully supported throughout. Our legal team will guide you through each stage of the process, explain what to expect, and ensure your case is presented clearly and professionally.

What is the complex orthopaedic injury claims process? toggle accordion
We guide you through each stage, handling the legal work so you can focus on your recovery. The process begins by assessing whether another party may be responsible for your injury. If so, we gather evidence to establish liability, such as accident reports, witness statements or expert input. Once responsibility is established, we focus on the full impact of your injury. This includes your medical needs, rehabilitation, care requirements, and any effect on your ability to work. By taking a thorough, step‑by‑step approach, we ensure your claim reflects both your current situation and your future needs.

How long does a complex orthopaedic injury claim take? toggle accordion
There is no fixed timeframe for a complex orthopaedic injury claim. It all depends on the circumstances of the case and the severity of your injury. Where responsibility is admitted early and the full impact of the injury is clear, a claim may progress more quickly. However, in serious orthopaedic injury cases, it’s often important to fully understand your long‑term needs before the claim is concluded. This can involve ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation and expert assessments, which naturally takes time. We aim to process your claim quickly and secure compensation that covers both your current and future needs. We will keep you informed throughout the process. We'll explain what to expect, and ensure the claim progresses at a pace that supports the best possible outcome for you.

What if the accident was partially my fault? toggle accordion
Accidents are not always caused by just one factor, and responsibility can be shared. Your claim may be assessed under what is known as contributory negligence. Your compensation may be reduced to reflect your share of the blame for the accident. For example, if an employer failed to maintain a safe working environment, but you were not wearing provided safety equipment, the court may decide that responsibility is shared. Any compensation awarded would then be adjusted accordingly. Importantly, partial responsibility does not automatically prevent you from bringing a claim. We'll look at the evidence and honestly explain if your share of the blame could affect your compensation. We'll make sure your current and future needs are fully covered. This ensures your claim progresses in a way that supports the best possible outcome for your future.

Why should I contact a complex orthopaedic injury lawyer? toggle accordion
Complex orthopaedic injuries can have a profound and lasting impact on your health, independence and future. Contacting a specialist complex orthopaedic injury lawyer ensures you have someone on your side who understands the legal process. That specialist will also understand the medical and practical challenges you may face. These cases are often more detailed than standard personal injury claims. They require evidence gathering, an understanding of medical needs, and input from experts to make sure your compensation reflects the impact of your injury. We will guide you through each stage of the process. We also handle communication with the other side, and secure funding for rehabilitation, care, treatment, and any adaptations you may need. Just as importantly, we can deal with the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery. Speak to one of our specialist orthopaedic injury solicitors early to get the best possible support.

Can I claim for multiple complex orthopaedic injuries at once? toggle accordion
Yes. If you are hurt multiple times in one accident, you can usually file them as a single claim. Your case looks at the full extent of your injuries and their combined impact on your mobility, independence, ability to work, and future care or rehabilitation needs. This ensures your compensation reflects the overall effect on your life, rather than treating each injury separately.

Can I make a no win no fee complex orthopaedic injury claim? toggle accordion
Yes – most of our orthopaedic negligence claims are handled on a no win, no fee basis, meaning there’s no financial risk to you.

I already have a solicitor, but they are not listening to me about my complex orthopaedic injury claim. Can I change? toggle accordion
Yes – you are free to change solicitors at any point during your claim. You may feel unheard, especially when dealing with complex bone injuries that disrupt your life. In many situations, this can be down to a lack of specialist experience. Complex orthopaedic injury and negligence claims require a solicitor with the right expertise to fully understand your condition, treatment needs, and long‑term prognosis.
Complex Orthopaedic Injury legal services

Providing support for people and families affected by complex orthopaedic injuries

  • Being there for you after your injury, helping you get the ongoing support you need
  • Handling your legal case for you to ease the burden
  • Doing everything we can to achieve the best possible outcome

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No win, no fee personal injury legal advice

We are usually able to offer no win, no fee agreements (also known as Conditional Fee Arrangements (CFAs)) to our personal injury clients. In ‘no win, no fee’ agreements there are no up-front costs for you and if you don’t win, we don’t get paid.

To learn more about funding your personal injury claim click here >

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Meet our serious injury lawyers

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Tony Hannington

Head of Lime Solicitors & Personal Injury

Personal Injury

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Martin Usher

Head of Serious Injury

Personal Injury

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Vicky Blodwell

Partner

Personal Injury

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Rose Gibson

Partner

Personal Injury

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Peter Jones

Partner

Personal Injury

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Kent Pattinson

Legal Director

Personal Injury

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Simon Pimlott

Legal Director

Personal Injury

Meet the rest of the team

Get in touch with our no win, no fee complex orthopaedic injury solicitors today

If you need to talk to someone straight away you can call us for free on 0808 164 0808

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Other serious injury claims we can help with

Amputation & limb loss → Brain and head injury → Spinal injury → Serious injury →
Disclaimer

In general you have three years from the date of injury or reasonable knowledge of injury to bring a compensation claim. There are some exceptions to this rule for instance where the matter involves a child in which case the child has three years from the date of their 18th birthday to bring a claim, therefore expiring on the individual’s 21st birthday.

It is important to speak to a legal team as early as possible to avoid any issues with limitation dates.