Broken Nose Compensation

A broken nose injury can be extremely painful and lead to long-term complications such as deformity, loss of smell and breathing difficulties. If there is any permanent cosmetic damage, this may also cause you emotional and psychological damage like anxiety and depression.

If another person caused your injury by acting negligently, you might be able to claim broken nose compensation. Common incidents leading to a claim include road traffic accidents, violent crimes, slips, trips and falls, and accidents at work. You could recover damages for pain and suffering, long-term effects on your life and any related financial losses.

To find out if you have a valid broken nose claim, call 0800 678 1410 or request a call back for a free case assessment with an experienced solicitor. They can answer any questions you have about the claims process and offer you a No Win No Fee service if you have a valid case.

Types and symptoms of a broken nose

There are several types of broken nose injuries for which you could claim compensation. The severity will depend on the circumstances of your accident and the force of the trauma to the nose. Here are a few common types of nose fractures:

• Simple fractures are straightforward breaks in the nasal bone without any significant displacement;
• In a displaced fracture, the broken bones are shifted out of their normal position, resulting in a noticeable deformity;
• Comminuted fractures occur when the nasal bone is broken into multiple fragments;
• A Greenstick fracture is a type of fracture that involves an incomplete break in the nasal bone, typically seen in children whose bones are more flexible;
• In a depressed fracture, the broken bone is pushed inward, causing a visible indentation or depression on the nose;
• An open fracture refers to a broken nose where the skin is also lacerated, leading to an external wound along with the bone fracture.

The symptoms of a broken nose can also vary based on the severity of the injury, but common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness in the nose area, especially when touching it
• Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes
• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Nasal congestion or stuffiness
• Bleeding and discharge of mucus from the nose
• Deformity or crookedness of the nose
• Facial pain or headache

If you suspect you may have broken your nose, it is important to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A healthcare professional, such as a doctor or an ENT specialist, will typically evaluate the condition using a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests such as an X-ray.

How is a broken nose treated?

If your nose is broken, the treatment you receive may include:

Closed reduction

Your doctor may perform a closed reduction procedure if the bones are not severely displaced or causing breathing difficulties. This involves manually manipulating the bones into their correct position under local or general anaesthesia. After this, you may need a nasal splint or packing to support the nose during healing.

Nasal packing

In cases of significant bleeding, the doctor may place nasal packing or splints inside the nose to control bleeding and support the nasal structures until it heals.

Ice and elevation

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling, alleviate pain, and minimise bruising. Keeping your head elevated can also help reduce swelling and promote better blood circulation.

Pain management

Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications can help manage pain and discomfort during the healing process. Follow the recommended dosage instructions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or existing medical conditions.

Surgical procedures

Surgery may be necessary in more complex cases or when there are associated injuries. Surgical treatment may involve an open reduction, where the surgeon makes incisions to access the broken bones and realign them properly. With nasty breaks, internal fixation with plates, wires, or screws may be used to stabilise the bones during healing.

Avoiding further injury

It is essential to avoid activities that could potentially cause further damage, such as contact sports or situations that may further irritate or worsen the pain. Getting plenty of rest and avoiding any unnecessary stress or strain can help promote healing and reduce discomfort.

It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation and personalised advice on pain management. They can assess the severity of your broken nose, provide appropriate pain relief recommendations, and monitor your progress throughout the healing process.

Possible long-term consequences of a nose injury

The time it takes for a nose injury to heal can vary according to severity and type. Generally, a broken nose or other minor nose injuries may take around one to two weeks to recover. During this time, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort.

The healing process may take longer if you undergo any necessary medical procedures, such as nasal realignment or fracture reduction. In severe cases, it can take up to several months for the nose to fully heal and for any related symptoms or issues to subside.

Nonetheless, if the nose is damaged, this could potentially have several long-term or permanent consequences, such as:

• Permanent scarring and deformity if the bones or cartilage in the nose do not heal correctly;
• Damage to the nasal passages or structures can lead to chronic nasal congestion, making it difficult to breathe properly;
• Long-term breathing difficulties if the injury affects the nasal passages or septum. That may also lead to ongoing issues with eating, speaking or sleeping;
• Chronic sinus problems such as recurring sinus infections, inflammation, or sinusitis, which can cause persistent symptoms like facial pain, pressure, nasal discharge, and a reduced sense of smell;
• Partial or complete loss of smell if the injury damages the olfactory nerves responsible for the sense of smell;
• A permanent change in the appearance of the nose or ongoing functional issues can have emotional and psychological consequences. It may affect self-esteem, body image, and overall well-being.

If your injury was due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct, the broken nose compensation you receive would consider any long-term effects on your life and daily activities.

Am I eligible for broken nose compensation?

If you have suffered a nose injury in an accident that was not your fault, the quickest and easiest way to find out if you can start a broken nose claim is a free consultation with a legal adviser. You can arrange this using our online claim form or by calling 0800 678 1410. They will ask you a few simple questions about your circumstances to determine whether:

• Another party owed you a duty of care
• They breached this duty by acting negligently
• This resulted in an accident that caused your nose injury
• The accident occurred within the last three years (or two years if your injury was caused by a criminal act)

A legal duty will be established by your solicitor referring to various pieces of UK legislation, such as:

• The Road Traffic Act 1988, if you suffered a broken nose in a road accident
• The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, if you were injured in a workplace accident
• The Occupiers’ Liability Act 1957, if you had an accident in a privately-owned place such as a bar or restaurant
• The Highways Act 1980, if you’ve suffered a broken nose on premises controlled by the local council, such as a pavement or public park
• The Consumer Protection Act 1987, if your injury was due to a defective product or machinery

After assessing liability, your solicitor will help you gather evidence to show how your injury occurred, who was at fault and how it affected your life. They will also send a claim notification form to the other side to inform them of your intentions to pursue broken nose compensation.

If the other side admits liability, your solicitor will negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. If they deny it, you may have to argue your case in court before a judge. However, this is rarely the case, as more than 95% of all claims settle without going to court.

What evidence will I need to start a broken nose claim?

To claim compensation for a broken nose, you will typically need to gather and present relevant evidence to support your case. While the specific proof required may vary depending on the circumstances, here are some common types that can be helpful:

• Copies of your medical records, including any diagnoses, treatment plans, X-rays, or scans related to your broken nose. These records will provide documentation of your injury and the medical care you received;
• Photographs or videos of the accident scene. If you can take these safely, you should do it before anything is moved, repaired or replaced;
• Take clear and detailed photos of your injured nose as soon as possible after the incident and throughout the healing process. This visual evidence can demonstrate the extent of the injury and any visible changes, such as swelling, bruising, or deformity;
• If there were any witnesses present during the incident that caused your broken nose, collect their names and contact information. Their statements can help support your version of events and establish liability;
• If you were injured at work or in a public place, make sure your accident is documented in the accident report book;
• Many places have cameras for security purposes. If your accident was captured on CCTV, ask for a copy of the footage as soon as possible before it is erased;
• If you want to claim broken nose compensation following a violent crime, you must have reported the accident to the police and have a crime reference number;
• In some cases, obtaining expert opinions from medical professionals, such as plastic surgeons or otolaryngologists, may be beneficial. They can provide assessments on the impact of the broken nose, the need for any future treatments or surgeries, and any long-term consequences of the injury;
• Keep track of any financial losses related to your broken nose, such as medical bills, prescription costs, transportation expenses for medical appointments, and lost wages due to time off work.

If you want to start a broken nose claim, an experienced personal injury solicitor can guide you through the process and help you gather the necessary evidence to support your case effectively.

Common causes of nose injury compensation claims

A broken nose can be due to any circumstances that involve blunt force trauma to this area of the face. The most common causes for which you may be able to make a broken nose compensation claim include the following:

Road traffic accidents

Road traffic accidents are a common cause of broken nose injuries. When a collision occurs, the force and impact can result in facial trauma, causing fractures and damage to the nose. These accidents can happen in various scenarios, such as car, motorbike, pedestrian, or bicycle accidents. In such cases, if another party is at fault for the accident, such as a negligent driver or poor road conditions, it may be possible to claim compensation for a broken nose and any other injuries you sustained.

Slips, trips and falls

Falls caused by slips or trips can sometimes lead to a broken nose injury. Such accidents are usually due to preventable hazards, such as uneven flooring, wet or slippery surfaces, insufficient lighting or objects left in walkways. Property owners and occupiers must maintain a safe environment, promptly address hazards, and take necessary precautions to prevent injuries. A property owner or occupier could be liable for broken nose compensation if negligence contributed to a slip or trip accident.

Accidents at work

Injuries to the nose can happen in various work environments, such as construction sites, factories, or any occupation involving physical activity. These accidents may involve falls from a height, collisions with objects, or impacts from machinery or equipment. Employers must prioritise safety measures and provide a safe working environment to minimise the risk of such accidents and injuries.

Sports accidents

Many sporting activities, especially contact sports like boxing or football, can lead to a nose injury. While participants are aware of the inherent risks involved in these sports, not all injuries are unavoidable. If a coach or responsible party fails to provide proper safety equipment, such as helmets or face guards, you may have ground to make a broken nose claim for compensation.

Criminal assaults

A physical assault, particularly one involving forceful blows or strikes to the face, can cause significant damage to the nose. These incidents can occur in various contexts, such as on the street, in public places, or even within private premises. If you were the victim of an assault, it is essential to report it to the police and get a crime reference number. That will allow you to start a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA).

Medical negligence

All healthcare professionals have a legal duty to provide their patients with a certain standard of care. It is based on the principle that healthcare providers must act in a manner that is reasonable, skilful, and consistent with accepted medical practices. Failure to provide adequate care during a medical procedure, such as during surgery or treatment for a facial injury, could result in harm to the patient, including a broken nose. A doctor could also misdiagnose a fracture, resulting in delayed treatment and further damage. In such cases, you may have grounds to make a medical negligence claim.

This list does not cover all the possible scenarios, so if your accident is not listed here, it does not mean you are not entitled to compensation. To find out if you have a valid broken nose claim, speak to a trained legal adviser by calling 0800 678 1410 for a free consultation. Or you can fill in our simple online claim form to receive a call back.

Can I sue my employer for a broken nose?

Your employer is legally required to ensure your workplace is reasonably safe from the risk of injury. This duty of care is mainly set out by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, in addition to other UK laws and regulations. Based on these laws, your employer’s responsibilities include:

• Carry out regular risk assessments to identify potential hazards and evaluate the risks they pose;
• Implement appropriate control measures to mitigate these risks;
• Maintain the premises, machinery and equipment safe for use and in good working condition;
• Have explicit health and safety policies and procedures in place;
• Provide health and safety information, instructions and training on safe working practices, proper use of equipment, and awareness of potential workplace hazards;
• Consult and involve employees in health and safety measures;
• When necessary, provide employees with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, goggles or mouth shields;
• Ensure that PPE is adequately maintained, replaced when necessary and that employees are trained on its correct use.

If you have suffered a broken nose at work due to a breach of duty, you might be eligible to claim compensation from your employer. In the UK, employers must have Employer’s Liability (EL) insurance to provide financial protection if they are held legally responsible for workplace injuries suffered by employees. If you make a successful claim, their insurer will cover your nose injury compensation, so your employer will not be left out of pocket.

Nonetheless, many people worry that they might lose their job by making an accident claim against their employer. However, this isn’t something you should worry about, as unfair dismissal laws in the UK protect you from being sacked without valid reason or following a fair procedure. If you have been unfairly dismissed, you would be entitled to lodge a further claim with the Employment Tribunal.

Can I claim compensation for a broken nose on behalf of my child?

Yes, as a parent or legal guardian, you can make a personal injury claim for a broken nose on behalf of your child. Minors cannot initiate legal claims themselves, so it is the parent or guardian’s responsibility to act as their litigation friend and pursue damages on their behalf.

To become a litigation friend, you typically need to fill in and file a certificate of suitability with the court, stating that:

• You can conduct legal proceedings in a fair and competent way
• You have no conflict of interest with the child
• You agree to pay any fees requested by the court

Once appointed as the litigation friend, you will act as the child’s legal representative. That involves making decisions on their behalf, providing instructions to your solicitor, attending court hearings, and ensuring their interests are protected throughout the legal process. You may also need to help gather evidence to support the broken nose claim and consider any compensation offers from the third party responsible.

If you have secured compensation for your child, you must go through an Infant Approval Hearing before a judge. This is a simple but necessary step when a child is involved in a legal case and has received a compensation offer. The judge will review the available evidence and proposed settlement to ensure it is fair and in the child’s best interests.

After receiving compensation for your child’s broken nose, your solicitor could also help you set up a personal injury trust in their name. That will ensure their compensation is safeguarded until they reach 18 and will not affect their eligibility for means-tested state benefits.

Time limits to start a broken nose claim

In the UK, there is a three-year time limit to start a broken nose injury claim after being involved in an accident that was not your fault. The claim limitation date is set out by the Limitation Act 1980, under which a case will be statute-barred if you do not start proceedings within the allotted timeframe.

There are, however, a few exceptions to the three-year time limit, such as:

• If the victim is a child, you have until their 18th birthday to claim injury compensation for them. Afterwards, the injured child will have until their 21st birthday to start a claim themselves.
• If the claimant lacks the mental capacity to conduct legal proceedings, a litigation friend could claim on their behalf at any time. The three-year limitation period only begins to count down if they regain their capacity to claim.
• If the broken nose was due to a criminal assault, there is a two-year period to claim compensation through the CICA.
• If you were injured while serving in the military, you could claim through the AFCS within seven years after suffering a broken nose.

Regardless of your circumstances, the sooner you start legal proceedings, the better. That will make it easier to remember any important details about the accident, collect evidence for the claim and get witness statements.

Nose injury compensation awards

If you want to pursue compensation for a broken nose, you can rest assured that your solicitor will fight to secure the maximum amount possible on your behalf. Every case is unique, but the final settlement is made up of two different types of damages:

General damages are awarded for the pain and suffering caused by the physical injury and other subjective losses, such as:

• Facial scarring and disfigurement
• Mental anguish and emotional distress
• Loss of consortium
• Impact on daily activities
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Special damages are awarded for the financial losses and expenses related to the injury, which could include:

• Lost wages or income during the recovery period or future loss of earnings
• Medical expenses for consultations, diagnostic tests, treatment procedures and medication
• Future medical expenses related to the broken nose, such as follow-up appointments, surgeries, or rehabilitation
• Any transportation costs incurred for medical appointments, therapy sessions, or other related activities
• Any care and assistance needed because of the injury

It is essential to keep accurate records and documentation of all expenses related to your broken nose injury, as these will be required to support your claim for special damages. General damages are based on previous similar cases and the guidelines offered by the Judicial College, according to which you could receive:

• £1,710 to £2,520 for a simple nondisplaced broken nose with full recovery
• £2,520 to £3,150 for a displaced fracture with no need for surgery
• £3,950 to £5,100 for a broken nose needing surgery without long-term effects
• £5,100 to £15,000 for a severe fracture leading to a permanent reduction in the sense of smell and potential deformity
• £16,000 to £21,000 for a nose injury leading to total loss of sense of smell

How much will it cost to pursue broken nose compensation?

If you have a valid broken nose claim, the personal injury lawyers we work with will be able to provide a no win no fee service. That means it will not cost you a single penny to receive legal representation from an experienced solicitor.

Instead, they will assume the risk of the case and will only receive a success fee if you receive compensation for your injury. This fee cannot be more than 25% of your general damages and the past monetary losses and expenses you incurred and will be agreed upon from the beginning.

The no win no fee service allows anyone to seek damages for a personal injury, regardless of their financial situation. Furthermore, your solicitor will handle all the legal aspects of the case while you can focus on yourself and your loved ones. This arrangement offers you peace of mind and reduces the stress of making a claim.

As part of the no win no fee agreement, you will also have After the Event (ATE) insurance to protect you from legal fees. If you lose the case, the ATE insurance will cover all the costs associated with the claim, including:

• The legal fees incurred by the defendant
• Court and counsel fees
• Police and medical reports
• Travel expenses
• Expert witness fees

If your claim is successful and you receive broken nose compensation, you will only have to pay the success fee to your solicitor and the cost of the ATE premium. If your case is unsuccessful, you won’t have to pay a penny, so you will never be left out of pocket.

To find out if you can start a claim for a fractured nose on a no win no fee basis, call 0800 678 1410 or request a call back. A legal adviser will assess your case and will be able to answer any questions you might have about the claims process.