Car accidents can have major impacts for drivers in Hawaii. While a collision often results in damage to the vehicle, it can also cause a number of injuries to the passengers in the car. While neck injuries, such as whiplash, are well known, the chest area can also take the brunt of the force and this can lead to serious damage.
According to FindLaw, many of the chest-related injuries are considered to be severe. Broken ribs are a common type of injury, but there is more concern when the internal organs are involved. A force to the chest, whether it is caused by the steering wheel, air bag or due to being thrown out of the vehicle, can lead to major issues dealing with breathing and other life-threatening conditions.
According to WebMD, a chest trauma can lead to organ injury both in the chest and abdominal areas. A big concern is the heart, and damage to this area can lead to blood vessel damage as well as cardiac arrest. Damage to the lung area can lead to breathing difficulties and a crushed trachea. Other organs that are vulnerable include the kidney, spleen and liver. Internal bleeding is an immediate concern when there is trauma to the chest area. Some signs that indicate organ damage include:
- Shortness of breath
- Pain
- Symptoms of shock
- Difficulty breathing
If these symptoms are identified, the injured party should seek immediate medical attention. Even if signs of chest trauma are not prevalent, one should be checked by a healthcare professional, as some internal damage can take awhile to be noticed.
