It is difficult to determine the average settlement for chest pain after a car accident. Each settlement for such a case depends on numerous factors, including the nature of the accident, the parties involved, and the extent of your injuries and other damages. You may experience chest pain due to a wide range of mild to severe injuries.
If you experience chest pain after a car accident, visit the ER or your doctor immediately. Any delay in treatment could make it more difficult to prove that the pain is connected to the accident. Afterward, consult a car accident lawyer in Dallas, TX. An attorney can assess your damages and estimate your case value.
Common Chest Pain Injuries Following a Car Accident
Chest injuries are common in car accidents. In many cases, your chest is forced forward into the steering wheel, airbag, or dashboard. This type of impact can lead to injuries such as:
- Broken ribs
- Punctured lung
- Bruised sternum
- Muscle strains
- Heart injuries
- Whiplash (upper chest)
Keep in mind that chest-related injuries can linger long after the accident. If you feel any severe or chronic pain after the accident, visit your doctor right away. It may not be too late to file a personal injury claim, even if you don’t feel pain or discomfort until several months after the crash.
What Determines Your Settlement Amount?
If you have never been in a car accident or do not know Texas law, you may not know what damages you can claim after the accident. Your attorney can work with you to identify and assess your damages so that you get a fair settlement. Common damages in a car accident claim include:
Medical Costs
Medical expenses may make up the bulk of your claim, as treatment can cost thousands of dollars. You may be entitled to claim up to 100 percent of your medical expenses, including:
- Emergency room visit
- Surgical procedures
- Hospital stay
- Rehabilitation
- Routine doctor visits
- Pain meds
Since your medical costs are calculable, your attorney can calculate an exact amount to add to your personal injury claim. So, make sure you keep your receipts, invoice, and a copy of your medical reports.
Lost Pay and Benefits
A chest injury can put you out of work for several weeks so that you can properly recover. As a result, you may lose thousands of dollars in total past and future income. You can claim your lost income, such as:
- Lost pay
- Insurance and benefits
- Retirement
- Lost future earning capacity
- Bonuses or tips
- Disability
Your attorney can work with your employer to determine how much total income you lost. Make sure your employer keeps accurate records.
Pain and Suffering
Any physical pain or emotional trauma you experienced after the car accident may qualify as pain and suffering. Common types of pain and suffering include:
- Chronic severe chest pain
- Mental anguish
- Loss of companionship
- Diminished lifestyle
- Loss of joy of life
Pain and suffering is a non-economic damage. Therefore, your attorney can’t assign an exact amount. They can assess the extent of your suffering and recommend an amount that the insurer should pay.
How Your Attorney Can Help You With Your Claim
When you file a car accident claim, there is no guarantee of how much compensation you will receive for your chest injury or other damages. However, you can leverage your claim with the help of a car accident lawyer in Houston, TX.
An attorney has the experience, resources, and team necessary to work on your case while recovering from your injuries. Your lawyer can help you in the following ways:
Provide Legal Counsel
Car accident victims often lose their cases due to simple errors in the claims process. An attorney can guide you through the process and help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your case. They can answer your questions and address your concerns along the way.
Investigate the Accident
The law firm will conduct a thorough investigation to uncover the facts of the accident. They can speak with witnesses, view video surveillance, pull a police report, visit the accident scene, and look at your medical records.
Negotiate a Settlement With the Insurance Company
Your lawyer can negotiate a settlement with the insurance company on your behalf. You never have to worry about speaking with the insurance adjuster on your own. If the insurance company denies your claim or offers a low settlement, your lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
Let Us Help You Get Fair Compensation for Your Damages
If you experience chest pain after a car accident, don’t delay. Get medical treatment and then call us. A car accident lawyer from Loncar Lyon Jenkins can help you get a fair settlement for your damages. Call us or contact us online to get a free case evaluation from a team member.
