Chest injuries are relatively common following automobile accidents. In severe cases, chest injuries can lead to dangerous health complications such as broken bones and organ damage. Learning how to recognize chest injuries can help you seek the medical care and financial compensation that you need following a car crash in San Antonio.
Types of Chest Injuries Commonly Caused by Car Accidents
The chest can get injured in a car accident due to the force of the body’s impact against a seat belt if the victim is buckled in, or an impact with the steering column or dashboard if unbuckled. The force of the chest colliding with a deployed airbag could also cause various injuries to this area of the body.
Common chest injuries include:
- Soft-tissue damage
- Bruising and contusions
- Myocardial contusion (bruising of the heart)
- Muscle sprains and strains
- Broken ribs
- Fractured sternums
- Lung damage
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
- Internal organ injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Pulmonary contusions
- Heart attacks
Chest injuries from an auto accident can range from mild bruising to life-threatening medical conditions. This is why it is important for crash victims to seek medical care immediately; prompt diagnosis of a chest injury can lead to life-saving medical intervention.
Signs of a Chest Injury After a Car Accident in San AntonioÂ
If a car accident victim sustains a chest injury of any kind, he or she may notice symptoms such as:Â
- Pain in the chest
- Pain when breathing or coughing
- Sore ribs
- Moderate to severe discomfort
- Tenderness when pressure is applied
- Trouble breathing
- Coughing up blood
- Irregular heartbeat
These symptoms may be present immediately for some victims but could be delayed or hidden in other cases.Â
What to Do After Suffering a Chest Injury in a San Antonio Car AccidentÂ
If you experience any potential symptoms of a chest injury after being involved in a car accident in San Antonio, seek medical attention right away. A doctor can diagnose an injury and start treatments immediately. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan while you are in recovery. Keep copies of your medical records and hospital bills for insurance purposes.
In Texas, the person or party at fault for an automobile accident can be held responsible financially under the state’s fault law. All drivers must carry certain amounts of bodily injury and property damage insurance for this reason. If you sustain a chest injury in a preventable car accident, the at-fault driver can be held liable for your related medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
When you are ready to file an insurance claim for a car accident chest injury, report the crash to your own insurance provider. Then, submit a claim against the at-fault driver, along with evidence supporting your case (including your medical records). Before you accept a fast settlement offered by an insurance company, however, discuss your case with a San Antonio car accident lawyer to protect your rights.Â
How Can a Lawyer Help?Â
A specialized personal injury attorney in San Antonio will make sure you do not settle for less than you deserve for a serious chest injury. For example, your lawyer can take over communications and negotiations with an insurance claims adjuster to fight for a fair settlement. While most car accident cases in Texas reach settlements, a lawyer will also have the ability to represent you in court, if necessary.
Arrange a free consultation with a knowledgeable car accident attorney in San Antonio for more information about a specific case. Contact Hill Law Firm Accident and Injury Lawyers.