Being involved in a motor vehicle accident (MVA) can cause serious and life-changing injuries. One of the most serious injuries you can suffer is to the spinal cord.
While some spinal cord injuries are minor and will heal over time, others are more serious and have the potential to cause paralysis. Some of the most common MVA-caused spine injuries are found here.
Whiplash
This is an extremely common injury in MVAs, especially in rear-end accidents. Whiplash impacts the cervical spine (neck) and occurs when the neck moves forward and back rapidly. When this happens, it causes trauma to the tissues in the neck.
Herniated disc
The discs in your spine serve as a cushion to the vertebrae. Essentially, they are your spine’s shock absorbers. The discs have a tough exterior and a softer center. Herniated discs occur when the soft center begins to leak through a crack and put pressure on the nerves around it. This is another common spine injury after MVAs.
Vertebral fractures
The vertebrae in your spine can be fractured during an accident. While small fractures will heal as time passes, more serious trauma can result in things like:
- Vertebral compression fractures
- Flexion or distraction fracture
- Burst fractures
These injuries can cause pain, tingling and numbness in the affected area. In some cases, depending on the severity, paralysis can occur.
Your rights after a spinal cord injury from an MVA
You have rights if you experience a spinal cord injury due to an MVA caused by another party. One right is to recover compensation for your injuries and damages. Make sure you protect your rights by documenting your injuries and keeping records of your medical treatment and costs.