Common Spinal Injuries from Car Accidents

The abrupt and violent nature of a car accident can have devastating impacts on the human body, particularly the spine. Spinal cord injuries, in particular, are among the most severe types of trauma victims can experience.  

These injuries can result from the sudden and forceful impact typically involved in car crashes, leading to permanent disabilities, chronic pain, and significant lifestyle changes. Understanding the common types of spinal injuries that occur during car accidents is vital for seeking appropriate medical care and pursuing fair and equitable compensation. 

At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I have over 35 years of experience handling car accident cases and fighting for the rights of my clients. Located in Wilmington, North Carolina, I serve clients throughout the state, including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County. 

Understanding Spinal Injuries

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are often the result of sudden trauma to the spine, which disrupts the communication between the brain and the rest of the body. The severity of a spinal cord injury is determined by the location of the injury along the spine and the extent of damage to the spinal cord.  

These injuries can be classified as either complete, where there is a total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury, or incomplete, where some degree of function remains.  

In a car accident, spinal cord injuries are often caused by the violent impact experienced during a collision, which can compress, fracture, or dislocate the vertebrae. The consequences of spinal cord injuries range from partial loss of function and sensation to complete paralysis, profoundly affecting the victim's quality of life. 

Whiplash, resulting from a sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck, can also contribute to spinal cord damage by causing the cervical vertebrae to stretch or tear. Additionally,  

Common Spinal Injuries from Car Accidents

Several types of spinal injuries are commonly seen in victims of car accidents. These injuries can vary in severity and impact and understanding them is crucial for both medical professionals and legal experts handling personal injury cases. 

Herniated Discs 

A herniated disc, also known as a slipped or ruptured disc, occurs when the soft interior of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. This can irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs. 

Car accidents can cause herniated discs due to the sudden impact on the spine. Symptoms may not appear immediately but can develop over time. If you notice persistent back pain, tingling, or muscle weakness, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. 

Fractured Vertebrae 

Fractures to the vertebrae can vary from hairline cracks to more severe crush or burst fractures. The intense forces involved in a car accident are often the cause of such injuries, and they often necessitate surgical intervention to stabilize the spine. 

Penetrating injuries 

In rare cases, car accidents can result in penetrating injuries to the spine. This occurs when fragments of bones or other objects, such as debris, pierce and damage the spinal cord.  

Symptoms of penetrating spinal injuries may include loss of sensation, muscle weakness or paralysis, and difficulty breathing. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent further damage and potential complications. 

Whiplash 

Though commonly associated with neck injuries, whiplash is one of the most common spinal injuries resulting from car accidents. This injury is caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head and neck, typical in rear-end collisions. 

Symptoms of whiplash include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. While whiplash is often considered a minor injury, it can lead to chronic pain and discomfort if not treated promptly. If you experience any of these symptoms after a car accident, seek medical attention immediately. 

Spinal Cord Contusions and Compressions 

During a car accident, the spinal cord may suffer contusions or compressions from fractured discs or bones. These injuries can cause temporary or permanent motor and sensory deficits. Contusions often result in bruises that can cause swelling, inflammation, and bleeding around the spinal cord, resulting in nerve damage and loss of sensation.  

Spinal cord compressions, on the other hand, typically occur when there is pressure on the spinal cord due to a herniated disc, bone fragment, or tumor. It can lead to significant pain, numbness, or tingling in the affected area. 

Dislocations 

Dislocations in the vertebrae can occur when the ligaments and other soft tissues that support the spine are torn or damaged during an accident. Symptoms may include severe back pain, difficulty moving or controlling limbs, and loss of sensation.  

Suffering a dislocation can lead to instability in the spinal column and may require surgical correction to prevent further damage.  

Paraplegia and Quadriplegia 

In rare cases, severe spinal cord injuries can result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body) or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs). These life-altering conditions require extensive medical care and rehabilitation, potentially disrupting the victim's livelihood and ability to work. 

Each of these injuries can have significant medical, emotional, and financial implications for the victim. Therefore, it is essential to seek immediate and thorough medical evaluation following a car accident to diagnose and treat any spinal injuries promptly.  

Types of Compensation for a Spinal Injury 

If you've sustained a spinal injury in a car accident, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation. Some common types of compensation include: 

• Medical expenses: Covering costs such as hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care required for your recovery. 

• Lost wages: If your spinal injury prevents you from working, you can seek compensation for lost wages and any future earnings you may miss due to your inability to work. 

• Pain and suffering: Spinal injuries often cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the non-economic impact of your injury. 

• Rehabilitation costs: Long-term rehabilitation is often necessary for spinal injuries. Compensation can cover the costs of specialized therapies and equipment needed for your recovery. 

At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, we are committed to helping victims of car accidents understand the complexities of spinal cord injuries and secure the compensation they deserve. Our extensive experience allows us to navigate the legal intricacies of these cases and advocate effectively on behalf of our clients. 

North Carolina Laws for Spinal Cord Injuries

North Carolina is an at-fault state, which means that the individual found to be at fault is responsible for the resulting damages and injuries. However, North Carolina also follows a contributory negligence rule, which states that even if you were found to be 1% responsible for the accident, you would be unable to recover damages.  

Additionally, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit resulting from a car accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. This means you have a three-year window to initiate legal action for any injuries or damages sustained in the accident. Failing to file within this time frame typically bars the injured party from seeking compensation through the court system. 

Seek Experienced Legal Counsel

If you suspect you've suffered a spinal injury from a car accident, seek immediate medical attention and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to explore your options for compensation. 

At Robert Louis Armstrong Personal Injury Attorney, I am committed to helping car accident victims in Wilmington, North Carolina, and throughout the state, including New Hanover County, Pender County, Brunswick County, and Onslow County. Your health and well-being are our top priorities. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.