According to the NHTSA, the overall number of traffic crashes and injuries decreased, but the number of fatal crashes rose by 6.8%. At 1.34, the death rate per 100 million vehicle kilometers traveled reached a record high since 2007, up 21% from 2019.

The risk of chest injuries in car accidents is very high. Chest injuries in car accidents can range from minor bruising and whiplash to severe trauma, with consequences that can be life-altering. Today, we will explore the causes of chest injuries in car accidents and their consequences.

Causes of Car Accident Chest Injuries:

Chest injuries can occur for a number of reasons in car accidents. Some of the most common include:

Seatbelt Impact: While seatbelts are designed to keep passengers safe, they can also cause chest injuries in a car accident. The impact of the seatbelt can result in bruising, broken ribs, or even sternum fractures.

Airbag Deployment: While airbags are crucial safety features, their deployment during a collision can also cause chest injuries. The force of the airbag can lead to bruises or more severe injuries like broken ribs or even a punctured lung.

Steering Wheel Impact: For drivers, the steering wheel can be a significant source of chest injuries in a car accident. The impact of colliding with the steering wheel can result in bruises, broken ribs, or sternum fractures.

Side-Impact Collisions: When vehicles are struck on the side, passengers can experience significant chest injuries due to the force of the impact.  This can include rib fractures, lung contusions, and more.

Frontal Collisions: In head-on collisions, passengers are at risk of severe chest injuries. A crash can result in broken ribs, sternum fractures, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening injuries.

Consequences of Car Accident Chest Injuries:

Depending on how serious the injury is, chest injuries from auto accidents can have minor to severe effects. Among the most frequent outcomes are:

Difficulty Breathing: It may be difficult for individuals to breathe properly, especially if there are broken ribs or a punctured lung.

Cardiac Trauma: The heart is located in the chest, and severe impact during a car accident can cause cardiac trauma.  This can result in life-threatening conditions, such as a heart attack.

Lung Injuries: The lungs are also at risk of injury during a car accident. If the ribs are broken or there is internal bleeding, it can lead to lung contusions or other respiratory issues.

Continued Pain: Even minor chest injuries can lead to prolonged pain and discomfort, making it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities.

Emotional Distress: Car accidents can also have emotional consequences, including anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The Risk of Car Accident Chest Injuries:

Not only are chest injuries common in car accidents, but they can also be life-threatening. Serious complications or even death may result from these injuries if they are not treated appropriately and quickly.

Furthermore, the risk of car accident chest injuries is heightened for certain individuals, such as children and elderly adults. These groups are more vulnerable to severe chest injuries due to their weaker bone structures and higher risk of pre-existing medical conditions.

It is also crucial to note that the impact of chest injuries can extend beyond physical consequences. An individual's mental health may also be strained and stressed by the financial burden of continuing medical care, missed income, and other medical bills.

Be Cautious!

Chest injuries in car accidents can have severe consequences for the individuals involved. It is crucial to always prioritize safety while driving and wear seatbelts to minimize the risk of chest injuries in the event of a collision.

If you or a loved one has experienced a car accident or chest injury, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Legal experts can also assist you in understanding your options and rights with regard to pursuing damages reimbursement. Drive carefully at all times, and keep yourself safe on the road.

Drive cautiously!