Can You Have Delayed Chest Pain After a Car Accident?

Of course, you can have delayed chest pain following a car accident. Sometimes, the symptoms do not appear right away but show up hours or even days later. This sometimes results from the adrenaline response of the body to the incident, which masks the pain for a while. The causes of chest pain after an accident range from minor muscle strain and bruising to serious rib fractures and internal trauma. Sometimes, blunt force impact can also cause cardiac complications. This is why a medical checkup is necessary to rule out the suspicion of any kind of life-threatening condition.

Ignoring chest pain will lead to the worsening of the condition and may even affect your legal claim. In case it is due to another driver’s negligence, then the victim may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, as well as other damages. It is at Parnall Law that car accident victims are assisted with their legal options by fighting for the justice they deserve.

Is it Common to Have Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident?

Yes, it is quite common. Following a car accident, for example, your body’s adrenaline can mask pain, and symptoms may be delayed. You could feel okay and, later on, start developing discomfort. This is often due to inflammation or an internal injury that you hadn’t noticed previously.

A car accident can result in numerous kinds of injuries that may not be overt. The National Center for Biotechnology Information says, “Chest pain can be caused by a number of conditions, including musculoskeletal strain and cardiac complications.” This is the reason it is very important to seek medical help as soon as possible; even acute chest pains could mean a serious underlying condition.

Besides, the psychological and emotional trauma from an accident is sometimes manifested through physical symptoms. PTSD or anxiety may result in tightness in the chest, shortness of breath, and discomfort. Many victims of accidents do not realize how seriously mental trauma from a traumatic experience might aggravate current injuries and make recovery even more difficult. A professional medical consultation will help to ascertain whether the pain is totally physical or part of stress and emotional trauma.

Causes of Delayed Chest Pain After a Car Accident

The following are some types of injury that can result in delayed chest pain:

• Muscle Strain: Whiplash from the impact can overstretch chest muscles and cause pain that may appear much later.
• Rib Fractures: Small cracks in ribs may not be painful immediately yet may become increasingly painful as swelling develops.
• Internal Injuries: The heart and lungs can be injured without immediate pain. The American College of Surgeons reports that motor vehicle collisions are the most common cause of blunt chest trauma, and the resultant cardiac injuries can range from minor to life-threatening injuries that, if left untreated, could be extremely critical.
• Seatbelt Injuries: These save lives yet can also cause contusions or internal injuries due to the pressure on the body during the time of a collision. A tightly secured seatbelt can compress the chest, leading to pain that may not appear immediately.
• Whiplash: While this usually relates to neck injuries, whiplash can also affect the chest. The sudden jerking motion from an accident can strain chest muscles, leading to discomfort hours or days later.

The second potential cause for developing pain includes inflammation of the cartilage that links the ribs with the breastbone, known as costochondritis. It results from blunt injuries, sudden impacts, or strong pressure on the chest. This type of condition is characterized by sharp pains, easily aggravated by movement or deep breaths, and may well mimic a heart attack, although it is not life-threatening. Without due treatment, it may result in severe discomfort, which could persist over a long time.

What to Do After Experiencing Chest Pain?

If you develop chest pain after an accident, seek medical attention immediately. Even minor pain could signal a more severe underlying injury, so visiting a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation is crucial. Follow your doctor’s recommendations, including any prescribed treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or additional tests. Keep detailed records of your symptoms, medical visits, and any treatments received, as documentation can be critical if you decide to pursue a legal claim. Monitor your condition closely, as delayed pain can escalate over time. Any worsening symptoms should be reported to a medical professional promptly.

If your injuries resulted from another driver’s negligence, consulting a personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options. Compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering may be available.

Can I Sue for Chest Pain After a Car Accident?

Yes, you can. If another party’s negligence caused the accident, leading to your chest pain, you have the right to seek compensation. In New Mexico, personal injury law allows accident victims to file a lawsuit for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

To establish a successful claim, you must prove the following elements:

• Duty of Care: The at-fault driver had a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely.
• Breach of Duty: They acted negligently, such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or running a red light.
• Causation: Their negligence directly caused your injuries.
• Damages: You suffered losses due to the accident, such as medical expenses or lost income.

New Mexico follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you could still recover compensation. However, your settlement may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

If you’re experiencing chest pain after a car accident, legal action may be necessary to recover compensation for your medical bills and suffering. A skilled personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.

Talk to a New Mexico Car Accident Lawyer Today

At Parnall Law, we help New Mexicans after car accidents. If you’re dealing with delayed chest pain after a car accident, call us at (505) 268-6500 for a free consultation.