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Sternum and rib fractures are common injuries in car accidents due to the forceful impact and the position of the seatbelt and steering wheel . These fractures occur when the bones crack or break under extreme pressure, often during a sudden stop or collision.
Most Common Fractures After Car Accidents
A fractured rib or sternum involves a partial or complete break in the bone . The ribs and sternum protect vital organs in the body, so injuries to these bones can cause significant pain and complications . Seatbelts, while lifesaving, can apply intense pressure across the chest during a crash, leading to fractures. Similarly, hitting the steering wheel can directly injure the sternum .
After an accident, individuals should watch for symptoms such as sharp chest pain, tenderness, swelling, bruising, difficulty breathing, and trouble moving the upper body . Because these fractures affect breathing and vital organs, prompt medical evaluation is crucial. Untreated sternum or rib fractures can lead to complications like pneumonia or prolonged pain. Anyone involved in a car accident who experiences chest pain or difficulty breathing should seek immediate medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment not only reduce pain but also help prevent potentially serious complications.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one suffered a fracture to the sternum or ribs after a motor vehicle accident, it’s important to understand your rights. At the Michael Brady Lynch Firm, we know how challenging and painful these injuries can be, and we are here to help you. Contact us at 888-585-5970 today.
Date: July 31, 2025
Attorney and Editor-In-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editor: Madison Hurley
Citations:
https://law.usnews.com/law-firms/advice/articles/common-car-accident-injuries-overview
https://www.healthline.com/health/broken-sternum
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-ribs/symptoms-causes/syc-20350763
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-ribs/symptoms-causes/syc-20350763
https://www.healthline.com/health/broken-sternum