Ross F. Mann | May 5, 2025 | Car Accidents
Broken ribs usually heal without extensive treatment, but life-threatening complications are possible when you fracture any bone. Broken ribs are among the most common auto accident-related injuries. If you’ve been diagnosed with fractured ribs after a car accident, taking the right steps will help your physical and financial recovery.
Types of Car Wrecks That May Cause Fractured Ribs
Any type of high-impact accident can result in broken bones, including truck and motorcycle accidents. The strong forward momentum experienced in a head-on collision can lead to compression against the seat belt or steering wheel that’s strong enough to break a rib.
Other common accidents that lead to rib injury include:
- T-bone (side impact) collision
- Rear-end collision
- Rollover collision
- High-speed collision
Being thrown out of the vehicle or being hit by a vehicle in a pedestrian accident could also cause broken ribs.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Experiencing any kind of pain after a collision, fall, or other accident is an indication that you need medical attention. Even if the pain seems like something you can manage at home, broken ribs could lead to internal bleeding, punctured lungs, and respiratory problems.
Delaying medical treatment could increase your risk for complications. The failure to seek medical care could also weaken a personal injury compensation case if you decide to file a claim.
Your healthcare provider may order X-rays, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or a CT scan to diagnose your condition. Treatment typically includes rest, pain management, and practicing specific breathing exercises to prevent pneumonia.
Though rare, surgery could be required to repair internal injuries. Very serious fractures could require a surgery called “internal fixation.” In this procedure, a surgeon inserts metal reinforcements to hold the rib bones in place while they heal.
Document Your Medical Treatment
Keeping a record of your injuries and treatment is helpful for your recovery, and it will provide documentation for a future legal claim. Record all of your medical appointments, treatments, and any expenses related to your care.
Other helpful documentation to collect includes:
- Photos of the injury
- Notes on how your rib fracture has affected your ability to work or perform daily tasks
- Any physical limitations, pain, or movement restrictions you’re experiencing
- Contact information for all the medical providers involved in your care
Medical records may be considered evidence in a personal injury claim. Thorough documentation could help you receive higher compensation.
Avoid Negotiating With Insurance Representatives On Your Own
Agreeing to a settlement without seeking legal advice is not recommended. The job of an insurance adjuster is to settle the case for the least possible amount of money, not the fairest amount. Once you have signed a settlement agreement, you will be unable to negotiate a new amount of compensation.
Reach Out To a Personal Injury Attorney
Even if you’re not certain you have a case, scheduling a free consultation with an experienced attorney is worth the effort. An attorney can evaluate your information and determine whether you have a legitimate claim.
Accident victims with broken ribs may be entitled to several types of damages, such as:
- Lost wages, including future lost wages
- Property damage
- Medical expenses, including emergency treatment, medications, hospital fees, and follow-up treatments
- Pain and suffering
A Kentucky personal injury attorney can estimate the potential amount of your compensation to help you make an informed decision.
Take Your Rib Injury Seriously
Broken ribs may heal on their own, but they can also cause life-threatening complications. Get medical help if you suspect your ribs have been injured in an auto accident. Follow all medical recommendations to improve your chances for a full recovery.
Even minor accident injuries can become a financial burden. Consult with a personal injury attorney to find out whether you’re entitled to monetary compensation.
Contact the Lexington Car Accident Lawyers of Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you were injured in an accident in Lexington, and need legal help, contact our car accident attorneys at Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers, to schedule a free case review today.
We proudly serve Fayette County and the surrounding areas.
Ross Mann Personal Injury Lawyers – Lexington
501 Darby Creek Rd UNIT 48
Lexington, KY 40509
(859) 413-3900
