Philadelphia Chest Injury Lawyer

The force of impact in a car accident, seat belt restraints, airbag deployment, and collisions with the steering wheel or dashboard can cause significant trauma to the chest. While some chest injuries are minor, others can lead to long-term health complications or life-threatening conditions.

Common Types of Chest Injuries in Car Accidents

Chest injuries can vary in severity and commonly include:

Rib Fractures

The force of impact can break or crack ribs, leading to sharp pain and difficulty breathing. Broken ribs can also puncture the lungs or other internal organs.

Bruising and Contusions

Blunt force trauma often causes deep bruising and contusions on the chest. While these injuries may not be life-threatening, they can cause significant pain and limit mobility.

Internal Organ Damage

Chest trauma can injure vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels.

Sternum Fractures

A direct blow to the chest can fracture the sternum (breastbone), which can be extremely painful and lead to complications such as difficulty breathing or damage to the heart.

Pulmonary Injuries

Impact forces can lead to collapsed lungs (pneumothorax) or lung contusions, both of which can cause breathing difficulties.

Pennsylvania Car Accident Laws

In Pennsylvania, several laws govern the procedures and responsibilities following a car accident.

Choice No-Fault Insurance System

Pennsylvania operates under a “choice” no-fault car insurance system as stated in Pennsylvania Statutes Title 75, Section 1705. Drivers can select between limited tort and full tort coverage when purchasing auto insurance.

• Limited Tort Coverage: This option restricts the policyholder’s ability to seek compensation for pain and suffering unless the injuries meet a specific severity threshold.
• Full Tort Coverage: This option allows the policyholder to retain unrestricted rights to pursue compensation for all damages, including pain and suffering, regardless of injury severity.

The choice between these options impacts the legal avenues available after an accident.

Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations in Pennsylvania for filing a personal injury lawsuit resulting from a car accident is two years from the date of the accident under Pennsylvania General Assembly Title 42 § 5524. Failing to file within this timeframe may bar the injured party from seeking compensation.

Comparative Negligence Rule

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Pennsylvania General Assembly Title 42 § 7102 states that an injured party can recover damages only if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. If the injured party is found to be 51% or more responsible, they are prohibited from recovering any damages.

How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Chest Injury

If you suffered a chest injury in a car accident, a Philadelphia Car Accident Attorney can help you seek compensation in the following ways:

Investigating the Accident

A Philadelphia chest injury attorney will gather evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, to establish how the crash occurred and who was at fault.

Proving Liability

Whether the accident resulted from another driver’s negligence, a vehicle defect, or hazardous road conditions, a Philadelphia chest injury lawyer will work to prove who is responsible for your injuries.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

A Philadelphia chest injury attorney will handle negotiations on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation that reflects the true impact of your chest injury.

Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary

If an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit and represent you in court to pursue the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered a chest injury in a traffic accident, contact Rosenbaum & Associates today. We offer free consultations, call (215) 569-0200 or message us online today.