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Car accidents have devastating consequences; even minor collisions result in significant injuries. The standard type of injuries sustained in car accidents is back injuries, which range from relatively mild strains to severe and life-altering spinal damage. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it is crucial to be vigilant for any signs or symptoms indicating a back injury. Seeking prompt medical attention is essential for your health and well-being, and it also plays a crucial role in any potential legal proceedings. Some of the most common symptoms indicating a back injury include:
- Pain or tenderness in the back, ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the back or neck
- Numbness, tingling, or a “pins and needles” sensation in the back, arms, or legs
- Weakness or difficulty moving the arms or legs, indicating potential nerve damage
- Headaches, particularly at the base of the skull, which could indicate a neck or upper back injury
Potential causes of back injuries in car accidents
- Whiplash – This is a well-known car accident injury caused by the sudden back-and-forth movement of the neck and head during a collision. Whiplash leads to soft tissue damage, muscle strains, and ligament tears in the neck and upper back.
- Impact with Steering Wheel or Dashboard – In a front-end collision, the impact force causes the driver or front-seat passenger to jerk forward, often impacting the steering wheel or dashboard. This leads to compression fractures in the spine, as well as soft tissue injuries.
- Seatbelt Syndrome – Seatbelts save lives, but they also cause injuries in a collision. The force exerted by the seatbelt during a crash can result in bruising and soft tissue injuries to the chest and abdomen, as well as potential spinal fractures or disc injuries.
- Airbag Deployment – While airbags are designed to protect us, the force of their deployment also causes injuries. Airbags lead to chest and abdominal injuries, as well as neck and back strains from the sudden impact and movement.
- Vehicle Damage – The force required to damage a vehicle during a collision is significant, and this force can also result in back injuries. Spinal compression, fractures, and soft tissue damage occur, even in relatively low-speed accidents. If you have suffered a back injury from a car accident, it is essential to know that you may be entitled to compensation.
Types of back injuries sustained in car accidents
- Soft tissue injuries include damage to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the back and neck. Strains, sprains, and tears cause pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- Herniated discs – The impact of a car accident causes the discs between the spinal bones to rupture or move out of place, leading to intense pain and nerve compression.
- Spinal fractures – Also known as compression fractures, these injuries involve breaks in the spinal bones (vertebrae). This causes severe pain, numbness, and loss of function.
- Spinal cord injuries -Damage to the spinal cord itself is severe and results in paralysis, loss of sensation, and permanent disability.
Consulting with an experienced Oklahoma City Car Accident Lawyer helps you understand your legal options and protect your rights. They guide you through the complex process of filing a claim or pursuing legal action.
