What to Do if Your Chest Hurts After a Car Accident

A car accident can leave you shaken, disoriented, and in pain, and one of the most alarming symptoms you might experience after a crash is chest pain. 

While some cases of chest pain might be minor, others could indicate serious or even life-threatening injuries. 

The most important thing to do if your chest hurts after a car accident is to not take it lightly—seek immediate medical attention to rule out any larger health issue.

If the chest pain is found to be more than minor and you are suffering serious injuries due to an accident someone else caused, you may have legal options. Car accident injuries can result in hefty medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and other expenses—and you shouldn’t have to bear the burden of someone else’s mistake. You may be entitled to compensation.

If you were hurt and have questions, contact Morgan & Morgan for a free case evaluation to learn more about your legal options.

Steps to Take After Experiencing Chest Pain Following a Car Accident

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if your chest pain seems minor, it’s always best to get checked by a doctor. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or cardiac contusions, may not present symptoms immediately but can worsen over time if left untreated.

2. Follow Your Doctor’s Recommendations

After a medical evaluation, follow your doctor’s instructions for treatment and recovery. This may include:

• Rest and pain management
• Physical therapy
• Imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs) to assess injuries

3. Document Your Symptoms and Medical Treatment

Keep detailed records of your symptoms, medical visits, treatments, and any pain medications prescribed. This documentation will be useful if you need to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with your medical records and any documentation related to the accident. Most importantly—stick to the facts. Don’t say anything that could be used to undervalue your claim.

5. Contact Morgan & Morgan

If your injuries were caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A car accident personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you need and deserve.

Common Causes of Chest Pain After a Car Accident

Chest pain after a car accident can stem from various injuries, some more severe than others. Below are the most common causes:

Seat Belt and Airbag Impact

Seat belts and airbags save lives, but the force of a collision can cause bruising or even fractures in the chest area. The sudden restraint from a seat belt can lead to contusions, soreness, or even rib fractures.

Rib Fractures and Bruising

A direct blow to the chest can break or bruise ribs. While rib bruising can be painful but manageable, a fractured rib can pose a serious risk, particularly if the broken bone punctures a lung.

Sternum Fractures

The sternum, or breastbone, can fracture due to the impact of the steering wheel or seatbelt. A sternum fracture can be very painful and may indicate underlying injuries, such as damage to the heart or lungs.

Internal Organ Injuries

Chest pain can signal damage to vital organs, including the heart, lungs, or liver. Some of the most serious injuries include:

• Cardiac Contusion: A bruised heart, often resulting from a high-impact crash.
• Pneumothorax: A collapsed lung due to puncture or blunt force trauma.
• Pulmonary Contusion: Bruising of lung tissue, making breathing difficult.

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash, often associated with neck injuries, can also affect the chest and upper back. Strained muscles and ligaments in the chest can cause persistent pain, especially with movement or deep breathing.

Anxiety and Stress Responses

A car accident is a traumatic event that can trigger an intense stress response. Anxiety and panic attacks can cause chest pain that mimics heart issues. Hyperventilation and muscle tension can also contribute to discomfort.

Symptoms That Indicate a Medical Emergency

Not all chest pain after a car accident is cause for immediate alarm, but certain symptoms warrant emergency medical attention. Seek immediate help if you experience:

• Severe, sharp, or crushing chest pain
• Pain radiating to the arm, neck, jaw, or back
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood
• Loss of consciousness or dizziness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

These symptoms could indicate serious conditions like a heart attack, internal bleeding, or a punctured lung.

Potential Compensation for Chest Injuries After a Car Accident

If you’re involved in a car accident, legal representation can be invaluable to you. Law enforcement and the insurance companies will determine whether you were at fault for the accident or not. Regardless of their decision, contact a car accident attorney. 

If you’re found to be at fault for your car accident, an experienced car accident attorney can help you negotiate with your insurance company and the insurance provider of other drivers involved. You may be able to receive compensation to cover your medical and other expenses. Speak with your lawyer to determine whether you have a case. 

If you’re not at fault for the car accident, your attorney will assist you in reaching a settlement that will cover your:

• Medical expenses
• Damages to personal property
• At-home care, if necessary
• Lost wages due to your accident
• Rehabilitation expenses
• Counseling or therapy
• Emergency transportation (ambulance, medevac)

Keep in mind that your attorney cannot guarantee the outcome of your case. However, an experienced attorney will know the ropes, so to speak, and will be able to assist you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. 

Do I Need an Attorney for Chest Pain After an Accident?

At Morgan & Morgan, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a car accident can take on victims. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Investigate Your Case: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with medical professionals to build a strong case.
• Negotiate With Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court.

Your health should be your top priority after a car accident. If you experience chest pain, seek medical attention immediately and follow up with appropriate care. Then, contact a personal injury lawyer who can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you need and deserve to move forward with your life.

Chest pain after a car accident should never be ignored. Even minor discomfort could indicate a serious injury that requires medical attention. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a car accident, Morgan & Morgan is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.