Car accidents and spinal cord injuries

Motor vehicle accidents are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries. It doesn’t take much of an impact to cause trauma to the spine. In some cases, you may not even be immediately aware of a spinal cord injury. You should always seek medical treatment following an accident and get legal counsel before agreeing to any type of settlement or liability waiver.

A single fracture can cause significant problems

The spine is made up of several bones called vertebrae. Even a small vertebrae fracture can sever spinal nerve endings, resulting in severe injury and possibly permanent paralysis.

Spinal injuries can be life-altering, and the cost of medical care can be astronomical. It’s essential to protect your interests and to discuss your options with a skilled professional.

When is it important to see a doctor?

You should always see a doctor after being involved in a car accident. Even if the accident occurred at a low rate of speed and you feel fine at the moment, some injuries may not make themselves known until days or weeks after a crash. It’s especially important to get medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms of a spine injury:

• Extreme back or neck pain
• Weakness or paralysis
• Problems with balance or movement
• Impaired breathing
• Loss of bladder control

If you are with someone in a car accident and it appears that they have suffered a spinal injury, you should refrain from moving the person and do your best to keep them still until emergency medical help has arrived.

You shouldn’t be responsible for someone else’s negligence

The true cost of an injury to the spinal cord goes beyond medical treatment. You should pursue the compensation you deserve when a negligent driver has caused a serious injury.