If you’ve recently been in a car accident and are noticing pain in your neck or back, you may be dealing with a spinal injury.
Spine injuries from car accidents can vary in severity and the form they take, so familiarity with the various forms can guide you in knowing what to look for and how to get the care you need.
At Bensinger Legal Services, we know how difficult it is to face an injury that impacts your daily life. Whether your spinal injury is mild or severe, we aim to make things easier by helping you understand your rights and what steps you can take.
To arrange a free consultation, call us at (419) 455-1410 or contact us online. We’re happy to help you.
Common Spinal Injuries from Car Accidents
Here are some of the most common spinal injuries from car accidents, along with what you should know about each.
1. Whiplash
Whiplash happens when your head and neck are suddenly jerked back and forth, often in rear-end collisions. It can cause pain, stiffness, and headaches, and if left untreated, may turn into chronic pain. Getting checked by a doctor as soon as possible can help address issues early on.
2. Herniated Disc
When a spinal disc ruptures, it’s called a herniated disc. This injury can lead to pain, numbness, or tingling in your arms or legs. Treatments can range from physical therapy to surgery, depending on the extent of the injury.
3. Fractured Vertebrae
High-impact accidents may cause fractures in the vertebrae—the bones in your spine. Fractures can disrupt the spine’s stability and potentially cause nerve damage. Quick medical attention is essential to prevent further issues.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI)
Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe types of spinal damage, potentially affecting movement or sensation below the injury site. These injuries often require specialized care, rehabilitation, and long-term support.
5. Spondylolisthesis
When a vertebra slips out of place due to the force of a collision, it’s known as spondylolisthesis. This can cause pain, weakness, or numbness, especially in the lower back. A healthcare provider can evaluate the injury and discuss physical therapy or surgery options.
6. Facet Joint Injuries
Facet joints provide stability and allow movement in your spine. Car accidents can damage these joints, resulting in pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Physical therapy, injections, and ongoing care are common treatments for these injuries.
Recognizing the Symptoms of a Spinal Injury
Sometimes, symptoms of spinal injuries don’t show up immediately after an accident. Even if you initially feel fine, paying attention to any discomfort in the following days or weeks is a good idea. Common symptoms include:
- Neck pain or stiffness;
- Headaches;
- Fatigue or dizziness;
- Tingling or numbness in arms, hands, legs, or feet; or
- Pain radiating down your back or legs.
Some symptoms are more urgent than others. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical care right away:
- Intense pressure in your head, neck, or back;
- Difficulty standing or walking;
- Weakness, paralysis, or numbness; or
- Loss of bladder or bowel control.
Getting a medical check-up as soon as possible after an accident can make a big difference. Sometimes, a spinal cord injury from a car accident may not seem serious at first but can lead to long-term issues if untreated. Early medical care ensures you get the treatment you need and provides a medical record that may be useful if you pursue a legal claim later on.
How a Lawyer Can Help After a Spinal Injury
Car accidents are a leading cause of spinal injuries in the United States, accounting for approximately 39.3% of such cases. These injuries can affect your life in many ways, from physical health to your ability to work, enjoy activities, and handle daily tasks. Recovery costs add up fast, with medical bills, lost income, and the potential need for long-term care.
Working with a personal injury lawyer can help you recover these costs, even if you share some responsibility for the accident under Ohio’s modified comparative negligence law. This law allows you to seek compensation if you were less than 50% responsible for the accident.
If you’re pursuing a claim for a car accident spinal cord injury, you may be eligible for compensation covering:
- Medical expenses,
- Lost income,
- Pain and suffering, and
- Future care needs.
Aaron and the Bensinger Legal Services team are here to help you receive compensation for everything you’re going through now and in the future.
We’re Here for You at Bensinger Legal Services
Spine injuries from car accidents can change your life, affecting not only your health but also your day-to-day activities and plans for the future.
Attorney Aaron Bensinger brings years of experience serving people in Northwest Ohio injured in car accidents, standing up to the insurance companies, and fighting to get you the full and fair compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury in a car accident, reach out to us for a free consultation. You can call us at (419) 455-1410 or contact us online. Let us handle the legal details so you can focus on healing.
Aaron L. Bensinger is an Ohio attorney serving personal injury and civil litigation clients. He has extensive trial experience and makes client service is his primary focus. As a partner at Balyeat, Leahy, Daley, Miller & Bensinger, LLC, Aaron happily works in Lima, OH, and serves the entire Northwest region of the state and beyond.
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