An injury accident is sudden, painful, and often emotionally devastating. When you’re involved in a crash, the physical pain isn’t always the only concern, especially if you’re dealing with chest trauma and rib fracture in a car accident. Many Washington State drivers walk away from a collision only to develop serious injuries hours or days later. Beyond the immediate discomfort, you now face the fear of the unknown: medical bills, lost income, dealing with insurance companies, and what happens next for you and your family.
At Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner PLLC, we understand that this is one of the most stressful times of your life. You may be asking: Why does this hurt so much? When should I be worried? Can I still pursue compensation? This guide gives you straightforward, expert-backed information so you can protect both your health and your legal rights.
What Are Chest Trauma and Rib Fractures?
Chest trauma due to a car accident usually takes the form of injuries to the chest region from the force of impact. Even when airbags deploy and seatbelts hold you safely in place, the blunt force of a collision can cause significant damage to your ribs and chest wall.
Rib fractures occur when one or more ribs crack or break due to the impact. These injuries are surprisingly common in motor vehicle accidents, which account for a large number of rib fracture cases in trauma patients in emergency departments.
Symptoms of Chest Trauma and Rib Fractures in a Car Accident That May Not Appear Right Away
You might feel okay immediately after the accident, only to notice pain hours or days later. This delayed onset happens for several reasons:
- Adrenaline and shock mask pain right after the impact, even while internal tissues are injured;
- Inflammation develops over time, intensifying discomfort in the chest area; and
- Minor pain or tightness can be dismissed as “normal soreness,” even when a rib is cracked or fractured.
Because symptoms can evolve, it’s always wise to seek medical attention, even if you weren’t initially hurt.
Common Symptoms of Chest Trauma and Rib Fractures
Whether symptoms appear immediately or are delayed, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. Here are some signs you could have chest trauma or a rib fracture due to a car accident:
- Sharp, intense chest pain that worsens with deep breathing, coughing, or movement;
- Pain that spreads to the back, shoulder, or stomach;
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath;
- Tenderness, swelling, or visible bruising over the chest; and
- Delayed onset of pain days after the crash.
Any of these symptoms deserves prompt medical evaluation. Delaying care can lead to complications like pneumonia, non-healing fractures, or damage to internal organs.
Why Immediate Treatment Matters for Your Health and Your Case
Doctors use imaging tests and physical exams to detect fractures and internal injuries you can’t see. Early diagnosis of chest trauma and rib fractures in a car accident not only protects your health but also creates vital documentation for your injury claim. A missed medical record or delayed diagnosis can make it harder to prove your injury was caused by the accident and affect the compensation you receive.
The Legal Clock Is Ticking in Washington State
If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, you have the right to pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past and future),
- Lost wages and earning capacity,
- Pain and suffering, and
- Emotional distress and lifestyle changes.
However, Washington law sets strict deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Most personal injury claims, including those from car accidents, must be filed within three years from the date of the crash.
Waiting too long can mean losing the right to recovery entirely. This deadline applies even if your injuries weren’t immediately apparent, so the sooner you act, the better.
How a Washington Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Our team has six seasoned Seattle car accident lawyers with a track record of million-dollar verdicts and settlements. From your first call, we’ll:
- Explain your legal options clearly,
- Handle all communication with insurers and medical billing,
- Thoroughly document your injuries and wage losses,
- Protect your rights and meet all legal deadlines, and
- Negotiate aggressively for full and fair compensation.
You shouldn’t have to navigate this alone. With our support, you’ll have someone ensuring that those responsible are held accountable and that you receive the financial resources you need to move forward.
Don’t Wait to Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one is experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or worrying symptoms after a crash, seek medical care immediately. Then contact Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner for a free consultation. Time matters, not just for your health, but for your legal rights.
We’re here to give you clarity, support, and relentless advocacy so you can focus on healing and getting your life back.
