When a crash victim experiences chest pain after a car accident, it can cause concern about serious injuries. While they may only be sore and stiff from the impact, it is a good idea to see a doctor to rule out any more significant injuries. There are too many vital organs and structures in the chest to ignore this discomfort.
If you are worried about the cost of seeing a doctor after your accident, you should know that victims can generally recover compensation for their medical assessment, any necessary treatment, and related expenses. You will likely be able to file an insurance claim based on your accident and injuries.
What Are the Common Causes of Chest Pain Following a Traffic Accident?
Seatbelts, airbags, and other forces exerted on your torso can cause pain and bruising after a crash. However, the possibility of an injury is too great not to see a doctor if you experience chest pain after an accident. This is true:
- If you have chest pain immediately after a crash
- If you develop chest pain and bruising hours later
- If you cannot breathe easily
- If you are struggling to take deep breaths
- If you have pain only when you cough
- If your pain is sharp or dull
Pain in your chest, especially when you struggle to take in a deep breath, could indicate trauma to your upper body, which can include:
- Injuries to internal organs
- Fractured ribs
- A punctured or lacerated lung
- Bruising of the sternum or ribs
How Will Doctors Identify and Treat My Chest Injuries?
When you see a doctor, whether in the emergency department or your local clinic, they will ask you questions about your pain, feel your chest, and examine you. They will likely also order medical imaging tests such as X-rays to see what is going on inside your chest.
The treatment they prescribe will depend on the injuries. You may need surgery, medication, or rest, and compression. They may give you pain relief medications and tell you that you cannot work until they clear you. In some cases, it could take days or weeks to heal even minor injuries. More serious injuries could take even longer.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 537-8185
Can I Recover Expenses Related to My Chest Pain and Injuries?
Accident victims almost always have financial expenses and losses they must deal with. For this reason, many states mandate that all drivers have liability insurance coverage. This type of policy pays out to cover a victim’s damages after an accident the policyholder caused.
While the recoverable expenses can vary, some of the more common costs and losses include:
- Medical treatment and related expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity for permanent injuries
- Car repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering losses
While it is possible to file your claim on your own and negotiate for a fair settlement, you may want to consider working with a car accident attorney who handles these cases regularly. They will know what it takes to prove what happened and who is responsible. They can also value your case and ensure you do not settle for less than you deserve based on your losses.
Do I Need to File a Lawsuit to Recover Compensation Following a Traffic Accident?
Most traffic accident claims settle without going to trial. Instead, the injured party or their lawyer files a claim based on the at-fault driver’s insurance and demands a just payout. This leads to negotiations, and they eventually reach an agreement on the payout amount.
A personal injury lawsuit may be necessary when the insurer will not negotiate fairly, refuses to accept responsibility, or denies the claim. Your attorney can advise you if this is a good idea in your case.
Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today
How Long do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Car Accident?
You only have a limited amount of time to file suit against the at-fault driver. Each state establishes its laws, and there may be exceptions that shorten the deadline. Some examples of deadlines in the Gulf South include:
- Up to one year in Louisiana, La. Civ. Code Art. 3492
- Up to two years in Alabama, Ala. Code § 6-2-38
- Up to three years in Arkansas, Ark. Code Ann. § 16-56-105
- Up to three years in Mississippi, Miss. Code Ann. § 15-1-49
Your attorney will be able to determine the exact filing deadline in your case during your initial consultation.
We Offer Free Case Consultations to Injured Victims of Car Accidents
At the Morris Bart law firm, we provide complimentary case reviews for victims of car accidents in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas. We have 15 locations to serve you. Our team can quickly assess your legal options and answer your questions. You may have a case for compensation.
Call (800) 537-8185 to learn how our team may be able to help with your case.
Questions?Call (800) 537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
