Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers | March 14, 2025 | Car Accidents
A fractured sternum is a serious injury that can occur during a car accident. If you or a loved one has suffered this kind of injury, you may wonder about your options for compensation. This article explains what a fractured sternum is, how it can impact your life, and the factors that affect the settlement amount in a car accident claim.
What is a Fractured Sternum?
The sternum, also known as the breastbone, is located in the center of the chest and connects the ribs. It plays a vital role in protecting the heart and lungs. A fractured sternum happens when the bone cracks or breaks, typically due to a forceful impact during a car accident.
Symptoms of a fractured sternum include:
- Pain in the chest, especially when breathing or coughing
- Bruising or swelling in the chest area
- Difficulty breathing
- Tenderness in the chest
The severity of the fracture can vary, and in some cases, additional injuries to internal organs may occur. The recovery process can be long and painful, requiring medical treatment and time off from work.
How Serious is a Fractured Sternum?
Due to its proximity to vital organs like the heart and lungs, a fractured sternum is considered a serious injury. While many fractures can heal with rest, some may require surgery, especially if there are complications. The healing time can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the fracture and the treatment needed.
During recovery, individuals may face physical limitations such as difficulty breathing, lifting, or even performing daily activities. In severe cases, a fractured sternum can cause long-term discomfort or permanent issues.
Factors That Affect the Average Settlement for a Fractured Sternum
The settlement you receive after a car accident will depend on several factors. Some of these factors include the severity of your injury, the extent of medical treatment required, and the long-term effects of the injury. Below are some of the key factors that influence the settlement amount:
Medical Expenses
The cost of medical treatment is one of the most significant factors in determining a car accident settlement. Medical expenses for a fractured sternum can include hospital stays, doctor’s visits, X-rays, surgeries, physical therapy, and pain management. The more extensive your treatment, the higher the settlement is likely to be.
Lost Wages
If your injury prevents you from working, your lost wages will also be considered in your settlement. You may be entitled to compensation for lost income if your recovery takes weeks or months.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refer to the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury. For a fractured sternum, this can include constant pain, discomfort, difficulty breathing, and the emotional toll of dealing with a serious injury. A car accident settlement will often include compensation for pain and suffering.
Long-Term Effects
Some car accident victims may experience long-term effects from a fractured sternum. For example, a person might have ongoing pain, difficulty exercising, or limited movement. If there are lasting impacts on your quality of life, this will be factored into your settlement.
Liability
Liability refers to who is at fault for the accident. If the other driver was clearly at fault, such as in negligence or reckless driving cases, then your chances of receiving a higher settlement are stronger. However, the settlement may be lower if liability is unclear or shared between multiple parties.
Average Settlement Amount for a Fractured Sternum
The average settlement for a fractured sternum can vary greatly depending on the mentioned factors. Car accident victims can expect a settlement ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 on average. However, settlements could go higher if there are severe complications or permanent disabilities. Working with an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential to get a fair settlement for your injuries.
Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer
A fractured sternum is a serious injury, and dealing with insurance companies or negotiating a settlement can be overwhelming. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, ensure you get the medical care you need, and fight for fair compensation.
Contact Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers For Help Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a fractured sternum due to a car accident, then it’s essential to have an experienced attorney who understands the law and can protect your rights. At Kibbey Wagner Injury and Car Accident Lawyers, we offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine how we can help you.
For more information, please contact the Stuart, Port St. Lucie, or Palm Beach Gardens personal injury law firm of Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers to schedule a free consultation today.
We proudly serve Martin County, St. Lucie County, Palm Beach County, and its surrounding areas in Florida:
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Stuart
73 SW Flagler Ave
Stuart, FL 34994
(772) 444-7000
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Port St. Lucie
1100 SW St. Lucie West Blvd. Ste 202
Port St Lucie, FL 34986
(772) 247-3374
Kibbey Wagner Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Palm Beach Gardens
300 Avenue of the Champions Ste 220
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418
(561) 944-4000
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