My Ribs Were Fractured in a Car Accident. Now What?

Riding a motorcycle is fun, but it can also be risky because of the actions of others on the road. Unlike other vehicles, you don't have much protection if you crash. Additionally, riding a motorcycle can be dangerous on roads with a lot of potholes or if you're riding in unsafe weather conditions. Below are some tips for staying safe while riding.

Staying Safe on a Motorcycle in Wisconsin

Take a Safety Course: Riding a motorcycle requires good judgment and skill, and a safety course will help you achieve that. A motorcycle safety course will teach you the rules of the road and what to do in unpredictable riding situations.

Wear Appropriate Gear: The right gear will protect you from debris, road rash, and the elements. Your gear should feature a helmet, leather jacket, eye protection, leather pants, over the ankle boots, and non-slip gloves. Appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities.

Keep Your Bike Maintained: Replace the air filter, change the oil regularly, and maintain your bike's tire pressure. Inspecting your motorcycle before you hit the road is also a good idea. Check your turn signals, headlights, taillights, fuel, brakes, handlebars, and mirrors.

Stay Alert: Being aware of your surroundings and riding defensively can prevent motorcycle accidents that could be caused by dangerous driving.

Maintain a Safe Distance: Riding too closely behind another vehicle is unsafe. It is advisable to stay a few seconds away from the car or motorcycle in front of you. This allows you enough space to stop during an emergency. Additionally, you should always have an escape route in mind if you cannot stop in time.

Be Visible: One of the most significant mistakes riders make is assuming they are visible to other motorists. Most motorcycle accidents are a result of drivers not seeing the motorcycle. You can stay visible by avoiding other motorists' blind spots, driving with a headlight, and wearing reflective clothing. Using your hand and turn signals can also help ensure you are visible.

Common Motorcycle Road Hazards

Distracted or Drunk Drivers: Although it may not be easy to identify if someone is drunk driving, it is wise to be attentive to your surroundings and take appropriate measures.

Rain or Snow: The hazardous weather can create slippery and unsafe road conditions. Avoid riding while it is raining or snowing.

Tar or Debris: Since tar has a different texture from asphalt, it can compromise traction. Additionally, parts of tire treads and other debris on the road can be hazardous to motorcycles.

Contact a Milwaukee Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or your loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Wisconsin, working with a Milwaukee motorcycle accident attorney is in your best interest.

At Natasha Misra Law, we are equipped to offer the guidance you need to know whether you are entitled to compensation. We will provide the representation you need to pursue compensation if you qualify. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Chest injuries, particularly bruised or fractured ribs, are common in car accidents. While ribs usually heal without medical intervention, rib injuries can be painful and make breathing or coughing uncomfortable. If you suffered fractured ribs after a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain, as well as your accident-related medical expenses. Here is a quick overview of what you can expect with rib injuries from a car accident.

What are the symptoms of broken ribs?

Without an evaluation or diagnosis from a medical professional, it can be difficult to determine whether your ribs are fractured or simply bruised. Chest pain, difficulty breathing, visible bruising, and painful coughing or sneezing can indicate both fractures and contusions. However, when ribs are broken, the pain is often much sharper and may worsen when you bend or twist your upper body.

In some circumstances, rib injuries can be life-threatening. If you experience any of these symptoms following a car accident, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis to ensure appropriate treatment and to avoid further injury or subsequent illness.

How are broken ribs treated?

While many rib injuries heal on their own, they can be quite painful in the meantime and may yield long-term consequences. Rib fractures can lead to collapsed lungs, a serious medical condition that can make breathing difficult. Because they can cause further internal injury, broken ribs often require surgical intervention, particularly if more than one rib is broken or other internal organs have been damaged.

For less severe injuries, like bruising, you will likely be treated with OTC pain medication, ice, rest, and a period of restricted activity.

How do car accidents cause broken ribs?

The force of a car colliding with another vehicle or stationary object can result in blunt trauma to the chest, resulting in broken ribs and other injuries. Whether from the impact of the steering wheel, dash, or just the force of the seatbelt securing the rider safely in the seat, car accidents cause broken ribs through impact, force, or other collision.

Can I recover compensation for rib injuries?

Yes, if you are injured in a car accident, you may file a lawsuit against the responsible party to recover accident-related medical expenses, lost wages, and even compensation for pain and suffering. The circumstances surrounding the accident, nature of your injuries, treatment, and what kind of insurance you carry will factor into the outcome of your case.

If you were injured in a car accident, there are certain time limitations to file a case. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately to discuss your options. With an attorney to advocate for your interests, you can focus on healing while your attorney fights to recover the compensation you deserve.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.