An automobile accident can inflict many severe injuries on a victim. The force of a vehicle collision is too much for the human body to withstand. Depending on the mechanics of the crash, one of the injuries a victim could sustain is a collapsed lung. This is a serious injury that can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
About Collapsed Lung Injuries
A collapsed lung, or pneumothorax, describes air infiltrating the chest cavity and placing pressure against a lung, causing it to collapse in on itself. Air will escape a collapsed lung and fill the pleural space, or the space between the lung and the chest wall. This can create a buildup of pressure that does not allow the lung to re-expand.
Symptoms of a Collapsed Lung
An injured lung may collapse partially or completely. Either way, a car accident victim can experience symptoms such as sharp chest pain, trouble breathing, rapid heart rate, fatigue, chest tightening, a cough, dizziness, or bluish skin or lips (in severe cases).
Collapsed Lung Injury Treatments
Some victims notice the symptoms of a collapsed lung right away, but others may not detect signs until later. This is why it is critical to see a doctor after an auto accident in Nevada, even if you initially feel fine. Medical treatments for a collapsed lung can include emergency surgery or pleurodesis, which is a procedure that attaches the lung to the chest cavity.
How Can a Car Accident Cause a Collapsed Lung?
A collapsed lung is a fairly commonly diagnosed car accident injury. Collapsed lung injuries can be caused by sources of trauma involving the chest, ribs or lungs. Blunt force trauma against the upper body in a car accident can lead to rib fractures, which can puncture a lung and cause it to collapse. Collapsed lung injuries can also occur if there is a major blow to the chest, such as the victim’s body striking the steering wheel or a seat belt at high velocity. This can rupture the layer of tissue that surrounds the lungs, allowing air to fill the chest cavity until it causes the lung to collapse. Finally, penetrating injuries to the chest can cause pneumothorax by puncturing the lung. An automobile accident can involve various sharp objects, including broken glass and metal, that could stab the victim, pierce the chest wall and puncture a lung.
What to Do if You Have a Collapsed Lung After a Car Accident
If you get involved in a car accident in Nevada, always get prompt medical care. This is recommended even if you think you are not injured. The nature of a car accident can cause a surge of adrenaline, which can act as a temporary painkiller. Additionally, you may have suffered injuries that do not show immediate symptoms, including a punctured or collapsed lung. Immediately going to the nearest hospital for a checkup can quickly diagnose serious injuries and put you on the road to recovery. If you are diagnosed with a collapsed lung from an automobile accident, it is a good idea to reach out to a local Las Vegas personal injury lawyer to discuss a potential case. You may be eligible for financial compensation from the other driver or another party for your medical expenses and other losses.
When to Contact a Car Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas
Nevada is a fault state, not a no-fault state. As someone who has suffered a collapsed lung injury in an automobile accident in Nevada, this law means you have the right to hold the at-fault driver financially responsible for your injury. The best way to handle your collapsed lung injury claim is with assistance from an attorney. An attorney will accurately evaluate your case, including any future medical care, lost wages, or pain and suffering you will likely endure. Then, your lawyer will take steps toward seeking maximum financial compensation on your behalf. For a free review of your car accident case and more information about collapsed lung injuries, contact Koch & Brim, LLP.