Back injuries are one of the most common types of injuries that can result from a car accident. They can range from minor to severe and can cause significant pain, discomfort, and disability. Back injuries can result from the sudden impact of a car crash, which can cause the spine to move in unnatural ways, leading to sprains, strains, fractures, and even spinal cord injuries.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort. This is because back injuries may not always present symptoms immediately after the accident, but they can worsen over time if left untreated. Seeking medical attention as soon as possible will ensure that your injuries are properly diagnosed and treated.
Common Types of Back Injuries in Car Accidents
- Whiplash: Whiplash is a very common injury that occurs when the head and neck suddenly move back and forth, causing strain and sprain in the neck muscles and ligaments. This type of injury can occur during a car accident when the impact causes the body to move rapidly in one direction and then quickly in the opposite direction. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, and lower back pain. Treatment for whiplash may involve physical therapy, pain medication, and wearing a neck brace for support.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can be one of the most severe types of back injuries and can result in partial or complete paralysis. They are often caused by a fracture or dislocation of the vertebrae, which can damage the spinal cord. Symptoms of spinal cord injuries can include loss of sensation or movement, loss of bladder or bowel control, and even difficulty breathing. Treatment for spinal cord injuries can be complex and may involve surgery, medication, and rehabilitation.
- Herniated Discs: A herniated disc occurs when the soft material inside a spinal disc pushes through a crack or tear in the outer layer of the disc. This can cause nerve damage and significant pain. Symptoms of a herniated disc can include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. Treatment may include physical therapy, medication, and in severe cases, surgery.
- Fractured Vertebrae: Fractured vertebrae are breaks in the bones that make up the spine. This type of injury can be caused by the sudden impact of a car accident and can lead to significant pain, difficulty moving, and even paralysis in severe cases. Treatment for a fractured vertebra may involve immobilizing the affected area with a brace or cast, pain medication, and in severe cases, surgery. Recovery can be a long process and may involve physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
If you have suffered a back injury in a car accident, it’s essential to seek legal representation from experienced personal injury attorneys, such as those at the Portner Bond, PLLC. Our attorneys have extensive experience representing clients who have suffered back injuries as a result of car accidents and are dedicated to helping you seek the compensation you deserve.
Compensation for Back Injuries
- Medical Expenses: Back injuries can be expensive to treat, especially if they require hospitalization, surgeries, and ongoing medical care. Compensation for medical expenses can include:
- Emergency room visits
- Hospital stays
- Diagnostic tests (such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans)
- Surgeries
- Medications
- Physical therapy
- Rehabilitation services
In addition to compensating for past medical expenses, you may also be entitled to compensation for future medical expenses. For example, if your back injury requires ongoing medical care or physical therapy, you may be entitled to compensation for those costs as well.
- Lost Wages: Back injuries can make it difficult or impossible to work, which can result in lost income. Compensation for lost wages can include:
- Past lost income (including wages, bonuses, and other compensation you would have received if you hadn’t been injured)
- Future lost income (if your injury prevents you from returning to work or limits your earning capacity)
- Loss of earning capacity (if your injury prevents you from working in your chosen field or limits your career opportunities)
To calculate the value of your lost wages, your attorney may work with financial experts to estimate your future earnings potential and the impact of your injury on your ability to earn income.
- Pain and Suffering: Back injuries can cause significant physical pain and emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Compensation for pain and suffering can include:
- Physical pain and discomfort resulting from the injury
- Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD
- Loss of enjoyment of life (if your injury limits your ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed)
- Loss of consortium (if your injury impacts your relationship with your spouse or family members)
Because pain and suffering damages are subjective, it can be challenging to calculate their value. Your attorney may consult with medical experts and mental health professionals to document the impact of your injury on your physical and emotional well-being and to calculate the appropriate amount of compensation.
- Disability: Back injuries can sometimes result in long-term or permanent disability, which can significantly impact your ability to work and enjoy life. Compensation for disability can include:
- Compensation for your reduced earning capacity (if your injury prevents you from working or limits your career opportunities)
- Compensation for long-term care or assisted living expenses
- Compensation for medical equipment or home modifications (such as a wheelchair ramp or accessible bathroom)
Calculating the value of a disability claim can be complex, as it requires estimating the impact of your injury on your future earning potential and quality of life. Your attorney may work with medical and financial experts to calculate the appropriate amount of compensation.
Contact the Portner Bond, PLLC Today
At the Portner Bond, PLLC, we understand the impact that a back injury can have on your life. We will work tirelessly to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries. We will investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and consult with medical experts to build a strong case on your behalf. Our Beaumont personal injury attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, pursue your case in court. Call us today at (409) 838-4444.