A car crash can cause many types of injuries, and a fractured sternum is among the most painful. This injury often occurs when the chest slams against the steering wheel or when a seatbelt compresses the chest too forcefully.
The break itself and the damage it causes to surrounding tissue leads to intense discomfort. Symptoms of a fractured sternum can include sharp chest pain, difficulty breathing, and swelling.
These symptoms can severely impact daily life. In the aftermath of a car accident, many people find themselves facing unexpected medical bills and lost income. Therefore, it's essential to understand that compensation may be available to help cover these losses.
After a sternum fracture, immediate medical expenses can quickly add up. Emergency room visits, hospitalization, and diagnostic imaging (like X-rays and CT scans) are often necessary to assess the severity of the injury. If surgery is required to stabilize the sternum, this will add additional costs.
Long-term medical needs may include physical therapy to regain mobility and manage pain, follow-up appointments to monitor healing, and possible pain management treatments.
Some patients may even face complications like breathing difficulties or infections requiring ongoing medical intervention. These expenses can place a heavy financial burden on victims, especially if recovery takes months. Understanding these costs is critical when pursuing compensation to alleviate the financial strain.
A sternum fracture often forces victims to take significant time off work due to pain and limited mobility. The initial recovery period may involve days or weeks in which they cannot perform their duties, leading to lost wages.
In severe cases, the injury could cause long-term limitations, particularly for individuals with physically demanding jobs. As a result, victims may face permanent changes in their earning capacity.
If the fracture leads to permanent disability or a reduced ability to work, the financial impact can be long-lasting. Including these losses in a compensation claim is essential, as they can represent a substantial part of the total recovery needed to make victims whole.
Pain and suffering are considered non-economic damages and are often compensable in personal injury claims. The physical pain associated with a sternum fracture can be severe, making it difficult to breathe, move, or sleep. The emotional distress can also be overwhelming, particularly when it hinders everyday activities and enjoyment of life.
The suffering caused by the injury is more than just physical; it can affect a person's emotional well-being and sense of security. The long-lasting discomfort and stress of recovery can significantly lower a victim's quality of life, making these damages a key element in a compensation claim.
A fractured sternum can severely impact a victim's ability to engage in daily activities and hobbies, reducing their overall quality of life. Simple tasks like lifting, driving, or playing with children can become painful or even impossible. Participation in physical activities, such as exercise or sports, may be limited for months or longer.
The injury may also hinder social interactions and the ability to travel. This loss of enjoyment of life is an important factor when considering compensation, as it reflects the personal non-financial toll the injury takes on the victim's life.
To secure financial recovery, it's essential to document all medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses related to the injury. This includes keeping records of doctor visits, bills, and pay stubs to support your claim.
Legal counsel is critical in ensuring that all relevant details are considered and your rights are protected. Acting promptly is key to ensuring you don't miss any important deadlines or opportunities to recover compensation for your losses.
