Every car accident is stressful, but the experience can be particularly traumatic if it causes injuries. Although whiplash and other conditions may resolve within a few days, a high-speed collision can cause bone fractures, abdominal complications and – perhaps worst of all – spinal injuries.
According to MayoClinic, car and motorcycle accidents are the leading causes of spinal injuries in the United Sates. They account for more than 35 percent of new spinal cord injuries.
Victims not only face steep medical bills, but they may also have to cope with a limited lifestyle. Some spinal injuries cause permanent paralysis, which can affect the person’s relationships, career and quality of life.
If you suffered a spinal injury due to another person’s negligence, contact a Cedar Rapids accident attorney from Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. You may be entitled to compensation for health-care bills, lost income and noneconomic damages.
Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit http://accident.usattorneys.com/iowa/ to learn more about accident claims in Iowa.
Here is a brief overview of three common spinal cord injuries in car accidents:
1. Spondylolisthesis
According to WebMD, spondylolisthesis is a condition in which one of the victim’s vertebra slides over the bone below it. Spondylolisthesis usually affects the lower spine.
The vertebra squeezes the nerve roots or spinal cord. This results in back pain and weakness in one or both legs.
Spondylolisthesis may also have an impact on the victim’s bowel and bladder control. There are several causes of spondylolisthesis, but it is common in people who damage a joint in a car accident.
2. Fractures
Spinal fractures usually occur in the lower and middle areas of the back during a car crash. People who only wear lap belts to secure their lower bodies are particularly susceptible to spinal fractures. This is because the upper body launches forward on impact, but the lower body remains stationary. As a result, the vertebrae separate, and the spinal cord may sever.
There are several common symptoms of a spinal fracture; these include tingling, numbness, and loss of bladder and bowel control. If you notice any of these symptoms after an accident, remain still and call for emergency medical assistance.
3. Whiplash
Many people underestimate the pain and discomfort that whiplash can cause. This injury occurs frequently in rear-end crashes when the force of the impact throws the head forward and then backward abruptly.
The vehicle’s headrest should reduce the distance that your head travels, but it is still common to suffer painful whiplash symptoms after an accident. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches;
- Blurry vision;
- Dizziness;
- Memory loss;
- Stiffness and pain in the neck;
- Ringing ears;
- Insomnia;
- And exhaustion.
It is important to seek medical attention after any crash. These signs may indicate a serious injury.
If you were injured by a negligent driver in Iowa, contact Eells & Tronvold Law Offices, PLC. A Cedar Rapids injury lawyer can assess your case to determine if you may have a legitimate claim. Call 319-393-1020 to schedule a consultation.