How Much is the Average Settlement for a Broken Rib Injury in Pennsylvania?

Posted on April 29, 2025

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A broken rib might seem like a minor injury, but it can cause severe pain, restrict breathing, and limit daily function for weeks or months. So how much is the average settlement for a broken rib injury in Pennsylvania?

The average settlement for a broken rib injury in Pennsylvania ranges from $15,000 to $50,000. Severe cases involving multiple fractures, internal damage, or prolonged recovery can exceed $75,000. Key factors include medical treatment, recovery time, pain level, and liability proof.

At Mattiacci Law, we help clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey recover maximum compensation for rib injuries caused by car accidents, falls, or job-related incidents. We make sure your pain, medical needs, and long-term effects are fully represented.

How Much is the Average Settlement for a Broken Rib Injury in Pennsylvania?

What Is a Broken Rib Injury?

A broken rib injury involves a fracture in one or more of the bones protecting the chest cavity, often resulting in intense pain, limited mobility, and respiratory complications.

Common Symptoms of a Broken Rib:

Sharp chest or side pain
Pain when breathing, coughing, or laughing
Bruising or swelling around the rib cage
Shallow breathing or shortness of breath

Some rib fractures can also cause damage to internal organs like the lungs or liver, making prompt treatment essential.

What Causes Broken Rib Injuries in Personal Injury Cases?

Rib fractures are usually caused by blunt force trauma, which is common in accidents, falls, and workplace incidents.

Common Causes:

Car accidents and airbag deployment
Motorcycle or bicycle crashes
Falls on hard surfaces
Workplace crush injuries
Physical assaults or sports impacts

Older adults are more vulnerable due to decreased bone density, but broken ribs can happen to anyone exposed to sudden force.

Why Is a Broken Rib Injury Settlement Important in Pennsylvania?

A settlement helps cover medical bills, time away from work, and the pain and limitations caused by the injury—especially when recovery spans weeks or leads to complications.

Compensation May Cover:

Emergency room and diagnostic imaging
Pain medication and breathing therapy
Follow-up visits and treatment for complications (like pneumonia or internal bleeding)
Time off work and reduced mobility
Pain and suffering

Even if surgery isn’t required, broken ribs can have serious financial and physical impacts.

How Do You File a Broken Rib Injury Claim in Pennsylvania?

To file a broken rib injury claim, you must document your injury, prove liability, and work with an experienced personal injury attorney.

1. Get Prompt Medical Evaluation

X-rays or CT scans will confirm the fracture and document its severity.

2. Record All Symptoms and Activity Limits

Track your pain level, breathing issues, and how your daily life is affected.

3. Contact Mattiacci Law

We offer free case reviews and begin building a claim with medical and financial evidence.

4. File an Insurance Claim or Personal Injury Lawsuit

We handle communication with insurers and file suit if needed to pursue full compensation.

5. Prove Damages

This includes medical expenses, income loss, and non-economic damages like pain.

Pennsylvania’s 2-year statute of limitations applies, so timely action is critical.

What Factors Affect a Broken Rib Injury Settlement?

The value of a rib injury settlement depends on the number of ribs broken, complications, recovery time, and how much it interferes with work or daily life.

Key Influencing Factors:

Number of fractured ribs
Presence of punctured lungs (pneumothorax) or internal bleeding
Whether hospitalization was required
Pain levels and duration of recovery
Impact on mobility and employment

Pennsylvania-Specific Legal Issues:

Comparative fault may reduce recovery if you’re partially at fault
Limited tort insurance can block pain and suffering unless injury is “serious”
Lawsuits must be filed within two years of the injury

Having medical documentation and a strong legal team can significantly improve your outcome.

What Are Typical Broken Rib Injury Settlement Amounts in Pennsylvania?

Rib fracture settlements in Pennsylvania typically fall between $15,000 and $75,000, but complex or painful cases can exceed $100,000.

Rib Injury Type	Settlement Range	Notes
Single, uncomplicated fracture	$10,000 – $25,000	Painful but typically heals without surgery
Multiple rib fractures	$25,000 – $75,000	Often require extended rest and physical therapy
Fractures with complications	$75,000 – $150,000+	Punctured lung, organ damage, or chronic pain

Each case is different—settlement values reflect the full scope of your injury and losses.

How Are Broken Rib Injuries Diagnosed and Treated?

Rib fractures are diagnosed using imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans and are generally treated with rest, medication, and monitoring for complications.

Diagnostic Tools:

X-rays (standard for rib fractures)
CT scans to check for punctures or bleeding
Pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen levels

Treatment Options:

Pain medication and anti-inflammatories
Physical therapy for lung and rib function
Compression bandages or breathing exercises
Hospitalization in severe or complicated cases

Consistent treatment and follow-ups can help document the full impact of your injury.

What Are the Long-Term Effects of a Broken Rib Injury?

Most rib fractures heal within 6–8 weeks, but some cases result in chronic pain, nerve damage, or complications like pneumonia or pleural effusion.

Lasting Effects May Include:

Ongoing chest pain or sensitivity
Breathing difficulty or restricted activity
Costochondritis (inflammation near the sternum)
Anxiety related to breathing or movement

Prolonged effects increase the value of your settlement—especially when your daily function is impaired.

How Do Broken Rib Injuries Affect Work and Daily Life?

Rib injuries often prevent lifting, twisting, or prolonged activity—affecting people in physical jobs and even those who sit for long periods.

Work Limitations May Include:

Inability to lift, reach, or bend
Difficulty sitting upright or standing
Time off for rest and follow-up appointments

We document wage loss and reduced earning potential to strengthen your case.

Talk to a Pennsylvania Broken Rib Injury Lawyer Today

Don’t let insurers minimize your pain or losses. Mattiacci Law will help you pursue full and fair compensation for your broken rib injury.

Call 215-914-6919 today for a free no-obligation consultation. There’s no fee unless we win.

We serve clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey, and we’re ready to help you recover.

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FAQs About Broken Rib Injury Lawsuit Settlements

Can you sue for a broken rib in a car accident?

Yes. If someone else's negligence caused the crash, you can file a personal injury claim for your rib injury and associated damages.

How painful is a broken rib?

Extremely painful. Most patients describe sharp, stabbing pain—especially when breathing or moving. This level of pain is compensable.

How long does it take for broken ribs to heal?

6 to 8 weeks is typical, but recovery may be longer if complications like punctured lungs or multiple fractures occur.

What if I had a pre-existing condition?

You can still receive compensation if the accident aggravated your condition. Medical records help prove the worsening of symptoms.

Are broken ribs considered a serious injury under PA law?

They can be. Especially when they lead to lasting pain, restricted mobility, or internal injury.

Can broken ribs cause long-term issues?

Yes. Some victims experience nerve damage, breathing difficulties, or emotional trauma long after physical healing.

Should I hire an attorney for a broken rib injury claim?

Absolutely. Insurers may downplay soft tissue or bone injuries. A lawyer ensures you’re treated fairly and compensated fully.