Injuries to the sternum, which is the breastbone located in the center of the chest, can occur in various personal injury cases in California. Here are important considerations regarding sternum injuries in such cases:
- Causes of Sternum Injuries: Sternum injuries can result from trauma to the chest area, such as in motor vehicle accidents (especially frontal collisions), falls, physical assaults, workplace incidents (such as accidents involving heavy machinery or objects), or sports injuries (like impacts in contact sports).
- Legal Liability: To pursue a personal injury claim in California for sternum injuries, the injured party (plaintiff) must establish that another party (defendant) was negligent or intentionally caused harm. This involves proving that the defendant had a duty of care (e.g., to drive safely, maintain a safe premises, provide adequate workplace safety measures), breached that duty (e.g., through negligent actions or failure to act), and that breach directly caused the sternum injury.
- Damages: Damages in personal injury cases involving sternum injuries may include medical expenses (such as emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation), pain and suffering, lost wages or income (due to temporary or permanent disability), and potentially punitive damages if the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or intentional.
- Role of Insurance and Legal Representation: Dealing with insurance companies and proving the extent of injuries like those to the sternum can be complex. Having a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who understands both the medical aspects of chest injuries and the legal requirements of personal injury claims can help protect your rights, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and advocate for fair compensation through settlement negotiations or litigation.
If you or someone you know has suffered sternum injuries due to someone else’s negligence or intentional actions in California, seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney is crucial. They can assess the specifics of your case, explain your legal options, and work diligently to ensure you receive appropriate compensation for your injuries and losses under California law.