Chest injuries can range from mild to severe, affecting not only physical health but also emotional well-being and financial stability. Common chest injuries that frequently occur in New York include rib fractures, sternum fractures, lung injuries, and cardiac trauma. Whether caused by motor vehicle accidents, workplace incidents, falls, or other unfortunate events, these injuries demand comprehensive evaluation to determine their true worth. Understanding the specific nature and extent of these chest injuries is essential in accurately assessing their value, taking into account the physical, emotional, and financial implications they impose on the injured party. By delving into the factors that contribute to the determination of a chest injury's value, individuals in New York can gain a clearer understanding of their rights and potential compensation in the event of such an unfortunate incident. At Stephen Bilkis & Associates, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and experienced legal representation to individuals who have suffered chest injuries in New York. In other 20+ years, our attorneys and of counsel have secured over $1 billion in compensations for our clients who have suffered serious injuries. Contact a skilled New York chest injury lawyer at our office today.
Examples of Chest Injury Verdicts in New YorkThe following are two examples of verdicts related to chest injuries. The average award for these two cases is $1,250,000.
Case: Fasolas v. Bobcat of N.Y., Inc., 53 N.Y.S.3d 61 (N.Y. App. Div. 2017)
Accident Type: Defective product
Verdict: $1,000,000
Case Summary: Twenty-eight-year-old Elias Fasolas was operating a Bobcat S175 skid-steer loader with a bucket attachment when a nine-foot-tall tree entered the open operator cab, crushing him against the rear and ceiling of the cab and killing him. The administrator of the decedent’s estate sued the manufacturers of the Bobcat, arguing that it was defective because it did not incorporate a feature that would have restricted material from entering the cab opening. The plaintiff suffered several series injuries including a fractured sternum and fractured ribs.
Case: Scavuzzo v. City of New York, 2006 N.Y. Slip Op. 51323 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 2006)
Accident Type: Bicycle accident; premises liability
Verdict: $1,500,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff was hit by a car while riding his bicycle. Plaintiff argued that the reason he was hit by a car was because he ran over a pothole which caused him to lose control of his bike. His injuries included two fractured ribs and a collapsed lung
Various types of accidents can lead to chest injuries, ranging from mild to severe. Here are some types of accidents that can result in chest injuries in New York:
Motor Vehicle Accidents: Collisions involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or pedestrians can cause significant chest injuries. The impact from the forceful collision, especially if the chest area comes into contact with the steering wheel, dashboard, or seatbelt, can lead to rib fractures, sternum fractures, lung injuries, or cardiac trauma.
Falls: Slip and fall accidents can result in chest injuries, especially if the person lands on a hard surface or strikes objects during the fall. Falls from heights or down stairs can cause severe chest trauma, including rib fractures, lung injuries, or even fractures of the sternum.
Workplace Accidents: Certain work environments present risks for chest injuries. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, or transportation may involve accidents like falls from scaffolding or ladders, being struck by falling objects, or being trapped between machinery or equipment, all of which can lead to chest injuries.
Sports and Recreational Activities: High-impact sports or recreational activities can result in chest injuries. Contact sports like football or hockey, as well as activities like skiing or skateboarding, can lead to collisions, falls, or direct impacts to the chest area, causing chest contusions, fractures, or other injuries. Note that not every chest injury suffered during a sports activity is compensable. To determine whether your injury is compensable, speak with an experienced New York personal injury lawyer.
Assaults and Violence: Incidents of physical altercations, assaults, or acts of violence can result in chest injuries. Punches, kicks, or blows to the chest can cause rib fractures, sternum fractures, or internal organ injuries. Victims of assaults have the right to file civil actions regardless of whether the assailant is charged or convicted criminally.
Factors in Determining the Value of a Chest InjuryWhen determining the value of a chest injury in a personal injury case, several factors come into play. While each case is unique, three important factors significantly influence the evaluation of a chest injury's worth:
Severity of the Injury: The severity of the chest injury is a crucial factor in determining its value. This includes the type and extent of the injury, such as rib fractures, sternum fractures, lung injuries, or cardiac trauma. More severe injuries that require extensive medical intervention, surgical procedures, or result in long-term complications and disabilities tend to have higher compensation values.
Impact on Daily Life and Function: The impact of the chest injury on the individual's daily life, functionality, and overall quality of life is a key consideration. This involves assessing the extent to which the injury affects the person's ability to perform daily activities, work, engage in hobbies, or enjoy recreational pursuits. Factors such as pain, limitations in mobility, breathing difficulties, or psychological distress are taken into account when evaluating the overall impact of the injury.
Economic Damages and Future Medical Needs: Economic damages resulting from the chest injury are an important factor in determining its value. This includes medical expenses incurred for immediate treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care. Additionally, future medical needs, such as the cost of long-term therapy, medications, or assistive devices, are considered. The impact on the individual's ability to work and earn income, both presently and in the future, is also taken into account. Figuring out the complete financial impact is complicated and requires the skill of an experienced personal injury attorney in New York.
In addition to the factors mentioned earlier, several other considerations come into play when determining the value of a chest injury. These may include the individual's age and overall health before the injury, any pre-existing medical conditions that may have been aggravated by the accident, the credibility and persuasiveness of witness testimony, the strength of supporting evidence, and potential limitations on damages imposed by statutory laws or insurance policies. Each case is unique, and a thorough evaluation of all relevant factors is crucial to ensure a fair and accurate assessment of the value of the chest injury in order to pursue appropriate compensation.
Contact Stephen Bilkis & AssociatesIf you have suffered a chest injury, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and well-being. Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney serving New York who can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and advocate on your behalf to seek fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, pain, and suffering. Remember, time is of the essence, so do not delay in seeking the legal assistance you need to protect your interests and secure the best possible outcome for your chest injury case. Contact at 1-800-NY-NY-LAW (1-800-696-9529) to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the following locations: Manhattan, Nassau County, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Staten Island, Suffolk County, and Westchester County.