Broken Jaw Compensation Estimator
Estimated Claim Value
Note: This estimate includes General Damages (pain/suffering) and Special Damages (financial losses).
Understanding Broken Jaw Compensation Claims
A mandibular fracture, commonly known as a broken jaw, is a serious injury that often results from vehicular accidents, assaults, or slips and falls. Compensation for these injuries is typically categorized into two parts: General Damages and Special Damages.
Factors Influencing Your Claim
- Severity of the Fracture: A simple fracture that heals completely within a few weeks will command a lower settlement than a comminuted fracture (where the bone breaks into multiple pieces).
- Surgical Requirements: If your jaw needed to be wired shut or required the permanent insertion of metal plates and screws, the "Pain and Suffering" component of your claim increases significantly.
- Nerve Damage: Mandibular injuries often affect the inferior alveolar nerve, leading to permanent numbness in the chin, lips, or teeth. This long-term disability drastically raises the potential settlement.
- Dietary Restrictions: Being restricted to a liquid diet for several months is considered a significant loss of amenity.
Realistic Compensation Examples
While every case is unique, here are standard benchmarks for the "General Damages" (pain and suffering) portion of a broken jaw claim:
| Injury Level | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Simple Fracture (Full Recovery) | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Multiple Fractures (With Surgery) | $15,000 – $30,000 |
| Severe Fracture (Permanent Effects) | $35,000 – $60,000+ |
Calculating "Special Damages"
In addition to your physical injury, you are entitled to recover out-of-pocket expenses. This includes the cost of specialized dental work, orthodontic treatment needed after the break, lost wages during the recovery period (especially if you work in a role requiring speech), and travel costs to see maxillofacial specialists.