Most people don’t associate damage to the heart with a car crash. However, whether you were in another car, riding a bike or walking, being struck by a vehicle can bruise the heart muscle if someone suffers a blow to the chest. The bruise is called a myocardial contusion.
In addition to that, a blow to the chest can damage the heart valves, potentially resulting in a rupture or even heart failure. Symptoms aren’t always obvious right away – especially if someone is dealing with a head injury, broken bones, lacerations and other common and painful injuries. That’s just one reason why it’s crucial to get medical care, or at least evaluation, right away if you’ve been involved in a crash. That includes having your heart checked out and possibly having scans.
How serious is a myocardial contusion?
This injury can be relatively mild. If it is, it will likely heal on its own without extensive medical intervention. However, if its serious, it might require surgery to repair.
A myocardial contusion and other injuries to the heart can cause permanent damage that requires regular care. It is likely to limit a person’s ability to be active and potentially even to continue in their profession.
That’s why if you or a loved one has suffered heart damage because of the actions of a reckless or negligent driver, it’s crucial not to settle with the at-fault driver or their insurer until you know the economic and non-economic effects of your injuries. Having experienced legal guidance can help you protect your right to a fair settlement.
