Many of the more than 2 million Americans injured in car accidents each year1 suffer neck or back injuries. When an individual in a car accident is injured by the negligence of another driver, he or she is entitled to bring a cause of action to recover for his or her losses.
Common neck injury
Whiplash is one of the most common neck injuries caused by a car accident. Whiplash occurs whenever the neck moves rapidly and forcefully in a back-and-forth motion, much like the motion of a whip. As a result of whiplash, victims often experience pain in the muscles, ligaments, and discs in the neck, dizziness; muscle stiffness, limited mobility of the neck, and, in potential lasting complications, especially among the elderly.2 Whiplash can cause victims to suffer temporary to permanent discomfort. Sometimes, it can even cause depression. Because of the whiplash, victims may require medical attention or physical therapy in order to make a full recovery. The effects of whiplash and other injuries to the neck may limit an individual’s ability to work and perform everyday tasks without discomfort. This can cause a victim to be unable to work for an extended period of time.
Complications of back injuries
Back injuries are injuries also commonly suffered in car accidents. The extent of back injuries can range from minor discomfort to lifelong complications. The size and importance of the back, especially the spine, can cause problems not only with the back but also to other areas of the body such as extremities. Back injuries may require extensive hospitalization, specialized medical care, and lengthy rehabilitation. This can result in expensive medical bills. If the injury is more serious, such as with cases of temporary or permanent paralysis, victims tend to suffer greater losses. Permanent disabilities such as paralysis can have effects beyond sharp increases in medical bills; it can cause loss of income due to an inability to continue performing those tasks the victim’s employment requires; it can lead to necessary and expensive accommodations of one’s living situation; and can lead to emotional and psychological trauma as a result.
An individual suffering neck and back injuries may, depending on the type and extent of the injury, recover losses related to medical expenses, lost and future income, and pain and suffering. A victim must successfully establish that he or she is entitled to damages in order to recover for his or her losses. This can be evidenced by documentation including medical bills, pay stubs showing a loss of income, any necessary modifications to a home or vehicle, and more.
Contact a Michigan Auto Accident Lawyer Today
If you were the victim of a car accident caused by another’s negligence, you are entitled to recover for losses related to those injuries suffered as a result of an accident. Your priority should always be to receive the necessary medical attention. After your recovery, you always want to seek the assistance of a lawyer who understands this particular type of automobile injury case. At the office of the Michigan Injury Lawyers, our team of car accident attorneys understand the legal issues that may arise in an automobile injury case and will always strive to ensure you recover all of the losses to which you are entitled. If you would like to discuss your situation for free, please call our office today at 313-438-4357.
References:
1http://www.rmiia.org/auto/traffic_safety/Cost_of_crashes.asp
2http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/whiplash/basics/symptoms/con-20033090
Thomas L. Stroble
FOUNDER
Mr. Stroble is a highly accomplished graduate of Michigan State University, with degrees in both science and law. He specializes in commercial lawsuits and personal injury cases. Licensed to practice law in Michigan and even the U.S. Supreme Court, he’s a well-qualified legal expert. Besides his career in law, he loves outdoor activities and volunteers as a part-time police officer in Birmingham.
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