Respiratory Issues After a Manhattan Car Accident

Respiratory issues can be life-changing, and various auto injuries may lead to these types of health concerns. If you are having trouble breathing, you have every right to consider potential compensation for effective treatment. You may also be eligible to receive additional compensation for lost wages. Contact an experienced Manhattan auto accident lawyer for further guidance.

What Kind of Auto Injuries Can Lead to Respiratory Problems?

Various auto injuries can lead to respiratory issues, from smoke inhalation to blunt force trauma and certain fractures. Perhaps the most obvious cause is an impact to the chest or torso that puts pressure on the lungs or chest cavity. These types of injuries may be caused by impacts with steering wheels, dashboards, and other solid objects. When the lung suffers sufficient trauma, it may become punctured or bruised. These injuries can cause serious respiratory issues, and they can be fatal if not treated promptly and effectively by doctors.

Another potential issue is smoke inhalation. After a fiery crash, a vehicle might burst into flames. Often, vehicle occupants are entrapped while these infernos rage around them. Even if first responders arrive quickly and extricate the victims, they may inhale dangerous fumes beforehand. These fumes can lead to not only persistent respiratory problems, but also brain damage and other injuries. Note that electric vehicles can also burst into flames after crashes, and the fumes from flaming batteries can be incredibly toxic.

Certain types of fractures can also cause respiratory problems. As anyone who has suffered a broken rib can tell you, this type of broken bone can certainly make it difficult to breathe. Sternum fractures can cause similar respiratory issues. Severe rib fractures can also lead to a condition called “flail chest,” which makes it very difficult to breathe normally. The spine is responsible for various bodily functions, including breathing. Therefore, certain types of spinal fractures and injuries can also lead to respiratory problems.

Will I Have Difficulty Breathing Forever After a Car Accident?

Only a trained doctor can answer this question, and you should seek treatment as soon as possible after your crash. Even if you have slight respiratory issues, it’s still worth getting yourself checked out. Certain injuries, including fractures and spinal cord issues, may be much worse than they initially appear. Certain types of respiratory injuries could lead to permanent breathing problems, including severe damage to the chest wall or lung tissue.

Key Takeaways

• Various auto injuries could lead to respiratory issues
• Potential causes include smoke inhalation and blunt force trauma to the torso
• Respiratory issues have the potential to be fatal if not treated promptly and effectively

Can a Manhattan Auto Accident Lawyer Help Me?

A Manhattan car accident lawyer may be able to assist if you have developed respiratory issues as a result of your car crash. These injuries can prevent you from working, living a normal life, and enjoying your favorite pastimes. Learn more about the next legal steps by contacting Cohan Law, PLLC today.

Sources: 

my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/pulmonary-contusion

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534090/