A chest injury can affect far more than just the area where pain is felt. Because the chest protects vital organs like the heart and lungs, injuries in this region can interfere with breathing, circulation, and overall mobility.
People in Savannah often suffer chest injuries in car accidents, falls, and other sudden trauma. When these injuries are caused by someone else’s carelessness, you may be entitled to compensation.
Overview of Chest Injuries
Chest injuries involve damage to the bones, muscles, or organs within the thoracic cavity. These injuries can range from mild bruising to severe internal trauma that requires emergency care. Even injuries that initially seem manageable may worsen over time, especially if internal organs are involved.
Because the chest plays a critical role in breathing and heart function, a medical evaluation is essential after any significant impact. Early diagnosis often improves outcomes and helps prevent complications.
Types of Chest Injuries
Chest injuries vary based on the force and location of impact. Some affect bones, while others involve internal organs or soft tissues.
Common examples are:
Rib and Sternum Injuries
Fractured or cracked ribs are common after vehicle collisions or falls. A fractured sternum may occur when the chest strikes a steering wheel or seat belt. These injuries can be extremely painful and may make breathing difficult.
Lung Injuries
Trauma to the chest can damage the lungs, resulting in bruising, punctures, or collapsed lungs. These injuries may not always be obvious right away, but can become life-threatening if untreated.
Soft Tissue and Muscle Injuries
Damage to chest muscles, ligaments, or connective tissue can cause persistent soreness, stiffness, and limited range of motion. While less visible, these injuries can still interfere with daily activities and work.
Cardiac-Related Injuries
Severe trauma can injure the heart itself, leading to cardiac contusions or rhythm disturbances. These injuries often require close monitoring, as symptoms may develop hours or days after the accident.
How Common Are Chest Injuries?
Chest injuries are frequently associated with high-impact accidents, especially motor vehicle crashes. Sudden deceleration, airbag deployment, and seat belt restraint can all place intense force on the chest area.
Falls from heights, workplace accidents, and pedestrian collisions also account for a significant number of chest injuries each year. The frequency and severity of these injuries underscore the importance of prompt medical care and follow-up.
Signs and Symptoms of a Chest Injury
Symptoms of a chest injury may appear immediately or develop gradually. Common signs include chest pain, tenderness, bruising, swelling, and difficulty breathing. Pain may worsen when coughing, laughing, or moving.
More concerning symptoms can include shortness of breath, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, or coughing up blood. These signs require immediate medical attention, as they may indicate internal damage.
What Causes Chest Injuries?
Chest injuries are most often the result of a sudden blow or compression to the upper body.
In Savannah, these injuries commonly occur due to:
- Car and truck accidents
- Motorcycle crashes
- Bicycle collisions
- Slip-and-fall incidents
While safety features like seat belts and airbags significantly reduce the risk of fatal harm, they can still contribute to chest injuries during high-impact collisions. Even when these systems work as intended, the force involved in an accident can still cause serious trauma to the chest.
What Is My Chest Injury Claim Worth?
The value of a chest injury claim depends on how the injury affects both your health and your daily life. Factors include the severity of the injury, the length of recovery, and whether ongoing treatment or surgery is required.
Lost income, future medical needs, and long-term pain or limitations also play a role. A Savannah personal injury lawyer can help evaluate these factors and determine what compensation may be appropriate.
What Compensation May Be Available for a Chest Injury in Savannah, GA?
Compensation for a chest injury may include payment for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, prescription medications, and lost wages. If the injury affects your ability to work in the future, diminished earning capacity may also be considered.
Non-economic damages may address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Each case is unique, and compensation should reflect the full scope of the injury’s impact.
How Chest Injuries Can Affect Daily Life During Recovery
One issue that is often overlooked is how a chest injury disrupts everyday routines. Simple actions such as sleeping, lifting objects, driving, or even taking deep breaths can become painful or difficult.
Recovery may require activity restrictions, time away from work, and assistance with household tasks. Understanding these practical challenges helps ensure that a claim accounts for more than just medical bills and recognizes the real-world impact of the injury.
How Long Do I Have to File a Chest Injury Lawsuit in Georgia?
Georgia law generally gives injured individuals two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can permanently bar recovery, regardless of the seriousness of the injury.
Because evidence can fade and exceptions may apply in limited situations, speaking with a Savannah personal injury attorney early can help protect your claim.
Contact a Savannah Personal Injury Lawyer from Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers for Help With a Chest Injury Today
A chest injury can have lasting physical and emotional consequences, especially when it interferes with breathing or movement. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
Bowen Painter Injury Lawyers represents injured individuals throughout Savannah, Georgia. Contact our office at (912) 335-1909 to speak with an experienced Savannah personal injury lawyer about your chest injury. The consultation is free, and there is no obligation to move forward.
