Car accidents are the leading cause of chest injuries that lead to a collapsed lung. About one out of every three collapsed lungs result in the loss of life because of damage to the lung. A penetrating injury can cause the lung to collapse.
If you have suffered a collapsed lung in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you can pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver, so you can recover compensation to cover your expenses.
A Collapsed Lung Could Have Lasting Effects
A collapsed lung is life-threatening. A chest injury, a broken rib, or other kinds of traumatic injuries can lead to collapsed lungs.
One complication that can result from a collapsed lung is called a tension pneumothorax, which causes the chest to keep filling with air that pushes on the lung with no way for the air to escape.
If the collapsed lung is caused by a penetrating injury, the hole might serve as a one-way valve, which lets air enter the chest but not escape.
When the chest fills with air that cannot escape, the air can cause a complete collapse of the lung and put pressure on the heart, keeping it from pumping as it should.
There are serious symptoms suffered because of a collapsed lung, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness.
The healthcare provider will need to do a chest x-ray, blood tests, and other scans to determine the severity of your injuries. You will miss work for an extensive timeframe and you will have mounting medical bills.
Determining The Other Driver’s Liability For The Crash That Caused A Collapsed Lung
If you have suffered a collapsed lung because of a car crash, you will need to prove the other driver is liable for the damages. You must prove who is at fault for the crash to recoup compensation for your losses.
You will need a copy of the accident report, photos of the damages, statements from witnesses, copies of medical records, medical bills, repair estimates, and other supporting documentation to prove your losses and to show the other driver’s liability.
A successful personal injury claim shows that the other party was negligent. There are four elements of negligence. If you can show all four elements of negligence apply to your accident and the other driver’s actions, you have a strong personal injury case.
You will need to provide documentation to show your losses of both the economic and non-economic nature.
Consult With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have suffered a collapsed lung because of an auto accident that was caused by someone else’s negligence, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. You don’t have anything to lose.
A personal injury attorney works on a contingency basis, so your lawyer will not be compensated until you get a judgment or settlement for your losses. There is a strict statute of limitations, so time is of the essence.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form to get your case reviewed by an attorney in your area today.
