Back injuries, including fractured spine, are a common occurrence in car accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. According to the NHTSA, they account for approximately 42% of all non-fatal injuries sustained in car accidents.
Back injuries can range in severity from mild strains to more serious injuries, such as spinal fractures and herniated discs, which can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s quality of life. It is vital to seek medical attention promptly after a car accident to ensure that any back injuries are identified and treated appropriately. Getting just compensation through the right lawyer is also important.
5 Types of Back Injuries Commonly Sustained in Car Accidents
1. Herniated Discs
Disc herniation, also known as herniated discs, slipped or ruptured discs, occur when the soft inner layer of a spinal disc protrudes through the tougher outer layer. This can lead to nerve compression and result in pain, numbness, and weakness. Symptoms of disc herniation may include sharp or shooting pain in the back, legs, or arms, tingling or numbness in the affected area, and muscle weakness. Treatment options for disc herniation may include rest, physical therapy, pain medication, and in some cases, surgery to remove the protruding disc material.
2. Spinal Fractures
Spinal fractures, including fractured spine, occur when one or more of the bones in the spine break or crack. This can cause severe pain and may lead to nerve damage or paralysis if the spinal cord is affected. Symptoms of a spinal fracture may include back pain that worsens with movement, numbness or tingling in the limbs, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Treatment options for spinal fractures, including fractured spine, may include rest, pain medication, bracing, and in some cases, surgery to stabilize the spine and prevent further damage.
3. Whiplash
Whiplash is a common injury if the neck is jerked back and forth forcefully, such as in a rear-end car accident. This can result in damage to the soft tissues in the neck, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. Treatment options for whiplash may include rest, ice or heat therapy, pain medication, and physical therapy to help restore mobility and strength in the affected area.
4. Sprains and Strains
Sprains and strains are injuries to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles in the back that can occur as a result of sudden movements or impact. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the affected area. Treatment options for sprains and strains may include rest, ice or heat therapy, pain medication, and physical therapy to help improve mobility and strength in the affected area. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair torn or damaged tissues.
5. Disc Bulges
Car crashes can cause a disc bulge, which is a common type of back injury that occurs when a spinal disc protrudes outside of its normal position. The impact of a car accident can cause the spine to bend or twist unnaturally, putting pressure on the discs in the back. The force of the impact can cause the outer layer of the disc to weaken or tear, allowing the soft inner layer to protrude out of place.
This can lead to nerve compression and subsequent pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Symptoms of a disc bulge may include back pain that worsens with movement, tingling or numbness in the legs or arms, and muscle weakness.
Treatment options for a disc bulge can include but are not limited to, rest, physical therapy, and pain medication. In some cases, surgery is needed to remove the protruding disc material.
Causes of Back Injuries in Car Accidents
Back injuries in car accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including the impact of the accident, seat belt injuries, airbag injuries, epidural injections, and ejection from the vehicle. The force of an auto accident can cause the spine to bend or twist in unnatural ways, leading to strains, sprains, or more severe injuries such as herniated discs or spinal fractures.
Seat belt injuries can also contribute to back injuries, particularly if the belt is improperly positioned or if the accident occurs at a high speed. Airbag injuries can also cause back injuries, particularly if the airbag deploys with excessive force or if the driver or passenger is in an awkward position at the time of deployment.
Ejection from the vehicle is another common cause of back injuries, particularly if the person is thrown from the vehicle or strikes a stationary object upon ejection.
Back Injury Lawyers in Elizabeth, New Jersey
Fractured spine lawyers can assist in investigating the circumstances of the accident, gathering evidence to support your case, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and representing you in court if necessary.
Afonso & Afonso have expert attorneys with experience in helping clients who have suffered a fractured spine in a car injury. Call the firm for a free consultation at (908) 354-9094.
Lawyers can assist in investigating the circumstances of the accident, gathering evidence to support your case, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and representing you in court if necessary.
Afonso & Afonso have expert attorneys with experience in helping clients who have been in a car injury. Call the firm for a free consultation at (908) 354-9094.
