Spinal injuries are one of the most common types of injuries caused by car accidents. They often require long-term, expensive medical treatments and leave victims suffering from chronic pain and limitations in the activities that they can enjoy. In Virginia, negligent drivers are responsible for compensating other motorists and passengers for their spinal injuries caused in the crash.
Four Leading Spinal Injuries From Car Accidents
The spine is a bundle of nerves, tissue, and vertebrae that run along a person’s back and connects their brain and central nervous system to the rest of their body. When the spine is injured, an individual can experience pain and damage to many parts of their body. Here are four common spinal injuries that car accident victims suffer:
- Spinal fractures. A spinal fracture can pinch or compress the spinal cord. It can cause symptoms, such as numbness or pain in certain areas of the body or loss of bladder control.
- Herniated disk. A herniated disc, also called a slipped or herniated disc, occurs when the cushions between the vertebrae in the spine are injured and the jelly-like substance in the cushion leaks out due to a tear. It can cause pain, numbness, and weakness and limit an accident victim’s ability to stand and walk.
- Spinal stenosis. Spinal stenosis is caused by the narrowing of the spaces in the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal column and nerves. It can be caused by wear and tear on the spine or severe trauma to the spine in a car accident.
- Paralysis. When the spinal cord is injured, a person can suffer partial or complete paralysis. Victims can become permanently disabled, suffer other life-threatening complications, and need round-the-clock assistance with their personal needs.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to If You Suffered a Spinal Injury
If you suffer a spinal injury in a car accident, it is important to know both your past and future medical expenses and wage losses before settling your claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company. This will ensure that you can afford the medical treatments for your injuries and have the income you need to live throughout your life. Types of compensation you can recover under Virginia law include:
- Medical expenses
- Wage losses and lost earning capacity
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Pain and suffering
You cannot afford to go it alone when negotiating with the insurance company for the damages you deserve. You need the help of an experienced car accident attorney to accurately value your claim and fight with the insurance company so that you receive all that you should in your settlement. To find out about our track record of success in auto collision cases and how we can assist you, call our Norfolk office to schedule your free consultation today.
|
Related Links: |