Types Of Back Injury In A Car Accident
Back injuries in car accidents are pretty common. They occur in almost all auto
accidents especially those involving rear end collision - this happens when a
motor vehicle gets bumped by another auto or collides with a stationary object.
Here are some of the most common back injuries resulting from car accidents:
1. Whiplash
One of the most common back injuries that results from a motor vehicle accident
is whiplash. Whiplash injury, which happens when the head of the victim is hurled
violently forward and then backward (but results in an even greater problem
when the head is turned sideways), can result in an injury in the following
body parts:
- Joints
- Muscles
- Discs
- Nerves
- Neck
While whiplash is a common auto accident injury, it is not immediately diagnosed
after a car crash until such time when the victim experiences neck pain and
muscle spasms.
2. Sprain in the lower back
Just like whiplash, a lumbar sprain is also not immediately detected after a
car accident until such time when the victim experiences pain on his back, sometimes
at one side only or even both sides of the back. The pain is usually felt during
physical activity resulting to back stress.
3. Injuries in the spinal cord
Back traumas resulting from a car accident can cause injuries in the spinal
cord. This is one of the most dangerous back injuries since it can cause nerve
damage which can result in the following:
- Paralysis
- Loss of reflex function
- Autonomic disturbances
- Loss of feelings in certain body parts
- Sexual dysfunction
- Infection
- Loss of bladder control
- Increased sensitivity to pain
The fact that these back injuries are not immediately detected should encourage
all auto accident victims to undergo medical examination as soon as possible.
This can include tests like x-rays, Myelograms, MRIs, CT scans, Electromyograms
and Discograms.
A person who has suffered back injuries resulting from an auto accident may
be entitled for compensation for the personal injury he has suffered as well
as its consequences like medical bills, loss of income, therapy and maintenance
medication.
The amount one can get as compensation for a back injury depends on the individual
case plus of course the experience of the personal injury lawyer handling the
case. If you are a victim of an auto car accident resulting in a back injury,
through no fault of your own then you can expect a higher compensation. However,
even if you are partly at fault, perhaps because you failed to use your seatbelt,
you are still eligible to get compensation.
Most insurance companies and persons liable for the accident will readily negotiate
with you for a settlement. However, settling the matter by yourself and without
the advice of an experienced lawyer will get you a lesser settlement fee. While
settlement is always encouraged due to the time it would take if the case is
taken to court, it is always better to have a lawyer on your side when negotiating
compensation to make sure you are not short-changed.
Motor Vehicle Accident
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