If you are experiencing chest pain after a car accident, you may have a case against: (1) the driver who caused the crash if you can show that he or she was negligent and that you suffered a serious impairment of body function; and (2) your no-fault auto insurance provider if it refuses to pay your medical bills and lost wages or cuts off your benefits
You can sue your no-fault insurance provider for unpaid medical bills, lost wages, attendant care, medical mileage, and replacement services, and you can sue the at-fault driver for your pain and suffering and any excess economic damages you incur. An experienced personal injury lawyer who specializes exclusively in motor vehicle accident cases can help you get the no-fault benefits you’re entitled to, and also file your lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
The lawyer you choose to handle your case is often the most significant factor in determining the size and speed of your settlement. The insurance industry’s own research has shown that car accident victims who hire experienced lawyers who specialize in auto law recover up to four times more than those who hire inexperienced attorneys. If you want to maximize your settlement, you need a lawyer who specializes in this area of law and has a history of winning big verdicts and settlements.
What to do for chest pain after a car accident
● Seek immediate medical attention – Getting checked out by a doctor right away ensures that serious conditions are diagnosed and treated early
● Undergo diagnostic testing – Tests like CT scans help doctors determine the best course of treatment and appropriate referrals
● Document your symptoms and treatment – Early medical records establish that the accident caused your injuries, which helps with both insurance and legal claims
● Don’t ignore or downplay your symptoms – Chest pain might seem minor but could signal serious internal injuries that worsen without prompt care
● Notify your auto insurance company of your injury – Be sure to include chest pain in your written notice of injury within one year of the crash to qualify for benefits
● Avoid signing any legal documents or settlements without legal advice – Do not agree to any settlements or waivers until you’ve spoken with an attorney who is protecting your interests.
● Consult an experienced personal injury attorney – A lawyer can explain your rights, help manage medical bills, and estimate the value of your case if another driver was at fault
Can I sue for chest pain after a car accident?
If you’re experiencing chest pain after a car crash you may be able to sue:
● Your auto insurance company – If your no-fault insurer refuses to pay or cuts off your benefits, you can sue for unpaid, overdue medical bills, attendant care, medical mileage, replacement services and lost wages if your injuries have prevented you from returningto work
● The at-fault driver – You can sue the at-fault driver for your pain and suffering, as well as any excess and future medical bills and lost wages, if you can show that: (1) He or she was negligent, i.e., violating traffic safety laws or failing to drive with the degree of care that a reasonably careful driver would exercise under similar circumstances, and (2) You suffered a “serious impairment of body function,” i.e., an injury that affects your ability to lead your “normal” life (the life you enjoyed before the crash)
Symptoms of a chest injury
Chest pain after a crash can be a symptom of a more serious injury such as a punctured or bruised lung, damage to internal organs, a fractured sternum, fractured ribs, or a cardiac contusion.
Symptoms of a chest injury often include:
● Pain or discomfort in the chest even without moving
● Pain or discomfort in the chest when moving even slightly
● Pain or discomfort in the chest even when just a small amount of pressure is applied
● Pain or discomfort in the chest when coughing, sneezing, or laughing
Types of injuries that can cause chest pain after a car accident
Several injuries can lead to chest pain, including:
● Heart attack
● Cardiac contusion
● Punctured lung
● Bruised lung
● Organ damage
● Fractured ribs
● Bruised ribs
● Fractured sternum
● Bruised sternum
● Muscle strain
● General soreness
Do seat belts cause chest injuries?
While seat belts save lives, they can also cause significant chest pain in the process. The force exerted by a seat belt that’s doing its job to restrain a driver or passenger during a crash often causes abrasions and bruising to the individual’s chest and sometimes even fractures the sternum or ribs or damages internal organs.
How long does a settlement take?
Most settlements take between several months and a couple of years. Where your case lands on this spectrum depends on several key factors, including:
● The severity of your injuries
● Your medical needs (now and in the future)
● Your medical expenses (now and in the future)
● Any current or future lost wages caused by your inability to return to work
● Discovery
● Your lawyer’s experience level, specialization, track record of success, and reputation
How can a lawyer help me with my case?
An experienced and skilled auto lawyer will:
● Conduct a comprehensive investigation of the crash and your case
● Gather and preserve crucial evidence
● Determine liability
● Assess damages
● Verify insurance coverage and financial assets
● Negotiate on your behalf
● Get you the best possible settlement in the least amount of time!
How to find the best lawyer to handle my case?
The lawyer you choose for your case is arguably the most important decision you will make when it comes to recovering the compensation you deserve after a car accident.
To find the right lawyer for your case, ask these five questions:
● How many car accident cases has the lawyer handled?
● Does he or she specialize exclusively in auto law?
● How many million-dollar settlements and verdicts has the lawyer won?
● Is he or she known for going to trial if the insurance company doesn’t make a full and fair settlement offer?
● How many 5-star reviews does the lawyer have?
If you can answer each of these questions to your satisfaction, you have found the right lawyer
for your case.