Radiograph of lumbar spine Chance fracture

This lateral plain radiograph of the lumbar spine shows a transverse fracture of the third lumbar (L3) vertebral body (arrows). This flexion-distraction injury is commonly referred to as a Chance fracture and typically occurs in passengers wearing only a lap seatbelt. Associated fractures of the lamina, pedicles, and interspinous ligament have splayed the posterior elements (double arrow).