Why Do People Experience Chest Pain After A Car Accident?

There are a few reasons people may experience chest pain after a car crash. One reason is because of the seat belt. The seat belt helps to keep you in your seat and prevents you from being ejected from the vehicle. However, the seat belt can also cause chest pain. This is because the seat belt may put pressure on your chest and can cause bruising or rib fractures.

 

Another reason people may experience chest pain after a car accident is because of the airbag. The airbag can cause bruising and swelling in the chest.

 

Finally, car accidents can also cause tears in the muscles or ligaments around the chest. This can also lead to chest pain.

 

Common Car Accident Injuries that Can Cause Chest Pain

Whiplash is perhaps the most common car injury that can cause chest pain. Whiplash is caused by the sudden jerking of the head and neck, which can damage the muscles and ligaments in the neck.

 

Other common car injuries that can cause chest pain include:

  • Muscle strains

  • Bruised ribs

  • Punctured lungs

  • Broken bones

  • Heart attacks

 

What Symptoms Should I Look Out For?

The symptoms of chest pain after a car accident vary depending on the severity of the injury. However, some common symptoms include:

  • Pain in the chest that gets worse with deep breaths

  • Soreness or stiffness in the chest

  • Tenderness when touching the chest

  • Shortness of breath

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea

 

What Should I Do if I Experience Chest Pain After a Car Accident?

 

There are a few things you should do if you experience chest pain after a car accident.

 

Seek Medical Attention Right Away. Don't try to tough it out. Chest pain can signify a serious injury, and you should have it checked out by a doctor.

Rest. Try to rest as much as possible until the pain subsides.

Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out any toxins that may have built up in your body due to the car accident.

Avoid Strenuous Activity. Until you know what is causing your chest pain, avoid activities that stress your chest muscles. This includes exercises like weightlifting and cardio workouts.

Stay Positive. Recovery from a car accident can be slow and frustrating, but it’s important to stay positive and keep your spirits up.

 

In addition to the advice above, it would help to document everything related to the accident. This includes taking pictures of the accident scene, getting the contact information of any witnesses, and keeping a journal of your symptoms. This will be helpful if you decide to file an injury claim.

 

Most importantly, after seeking medical attention, speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

 

St. Louis Car Accident Lawyers

Have you been injured in a car accident and are experiencing chest pain? Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Call us 24/7 at (314) 361-4242.