Neck and spinal injuries often occur in car accidents, especially when there is a significant amount of force impacting you. Speeding drivers, rear-end accidents, and t-bone accidents are some of the most common causes of these types of injuries. When this happens to you, your first step is always to get help from a medical provider. Then, turn to a car accident attorney in Nebraska to guide you in protecting your right to compensation.
Types of Neck and Spine Injuries
When a car accident happens, numerous injuries can occur to any part of the body. The neck and spine can easily be damaged even by a moderate amount of force due to the impact. The following are some of the most common resulting injuries:
- Broken bones. As one of the most common injuries, broken bones in the spinal column, neck, and shoulder area can create intense pain. They can also expose the spinal cord to damage.
- Pinched nerves. As the tissue around the nerves becomes inflamed, this can put too much pressure on the nerve endings. This causes a pinched or compressed nerve creating pain and weakness.
- Herniated discs. The discs which sit between the vertebrae of the spinal column can become extended, resulting in slipping or compression. This creates significant pain as well as numbness.
- Whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the tendons and ligaments in the neck are strained due to the back-and-forth movement of the head with significant force. It can take several days to develop. When it occurs, it can lead to significant pain as well as dizziness and limited mobility.
- Soft tissue injuries. The tissues around the neck and spinal column can become damaged and torn. This can limit mobility in the impacted area and create muscle weakness and pain.
- Spinal cord injuries. One of the most complex conditions occurs when there’s damage to the spinal cord itself. This pathway of nerves communicates messages from the brain to all areas of the body. Injuries here can create temporary or permanent damage to nerves, leading to paralysis or limited mobility.
What to Do If You Have a Neck Injury After a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident, your first step is to get care from your local emergency room or doctor. Even if you don’t feel pain, it’s best to document any existing strains or injuries with an ER visit.
Monitor your health for the next five to seven days. Some injuries can take time to become evident, especially those related to the spinal column and neck. Work closely with your doctors to ensure you get the care you need.
Potential Damages From Your Nebraska Car Accident
After a car accident like this, damages can be extensive and hard to determine. Your car accident lawyer will offer some insight into what your legal options are. Under Nebraska personal injury law, you are able to claim any losses you’ve suffered if another person caused your accident and injuries. This may include:
- Medical costs. Any medical bills for emergency room visits, specialized care, surgeries, hospitalizations, and ongoing medical rehabilitation may be included. This includes the care you’ve already had and future care you may need.
- Out-of-pocket-expenses. This may include costs such as damage to your vehicle or costs associated with childcare or transportation-related to your medical needs or because of court-related appearances.
- Lost income. Any time you’ve missed at work can qualify here. That may include bonuses and benefits you would have received.
- Pain and suffering. You’ve suffered significant pain and discomfort. You may be entitled to compensation for both physical and mental suffering related to the accident.
Protect Your Car Accident Recovery With a Personal Injury Attorney
After a car accident like this, you have the legal right to financial support when someone else has caused your losses. At the Law Office of Matthew A. Lathrop, PC, LLO, we will provide guidance and help you secure what’s owed to you. Call for a free consultation.
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