Spinal Cord & Neck Injuries After a Car Accident in Texas

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality of life in Texas, and they can cause a wide range of injuries. Spinal cord and neck injuries are two of the most common types of trauma sustained in car accidents. These types of injuries can be severe with long-lasting effects on a person’s life.

Spinal Cord Injuries from Car Accidents

The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs down the back and is protected by the vertebrae of the spine. An injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, and symptoms can vary depending on its location and severity. Some common symptoms include:

• Loss of sensation or movement in the limbs or torso
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Pain or pressure in the neck, back, or head
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms, legs, or torso
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Spasms or exaggerated reflexes
• Paralysis, either partial or complete

The force or impact of a collision can cause a variety of spinal cord injuries (SCIs), such as herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, contusions to the spinal cord, or complete or incomplete SCIs that sever or partially damage the spinal cord. All of which can result in long-term disability. If you suspect you have suffered one after a car accident, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately.

Neck Injuries from Car Accidents

The neck is another area of the body that is often injured in car accidents. Whiplash is the most common neck injury that occurs and happens when the head is violently jerked forward and then backward suddenly. This motion can cause damage to the muscles, ligaments, and nerves. Symptoms of whiplash can include:

• Neck pain and stiffness
• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of range of motion in the neck
• Tenderness or pain in the shoulders, upper back, or arms
• Tingling or numbness in the arms
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things

While whiplash is not usually a serious injury, symptoms can last anywhere from several weeks to months or even years. Other common neck injuries from collisions include herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, cervical dislocation, which occurs when the bones in the neck are pushed out of their normal position, or neck sprain or strain. 

Types of Damages Available for Neck or Back Injury After a Car Accident

If you suffer a neck or back injury from a car accident in Texas, you may be entitled to seek compensation for damages caused by the accident. The types of damages available may include:

• Medical expenses: This can include current and future costs of doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and other medical treatments related to your injury.
• Lost wages: If your injury causes you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost income and benefits.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by your injury.
• Property damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover compensation for repair or replacement costs.
• Punitive damages: In some cases, a Texas court will award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for their reckless or negligent behavior, but it is rare.

The amount of compensation you may be entitled to will depend on the specific circumstances of your case, such as the severity of your injuries, their impact on your life, and whether you contributed to the collision. Contact an experienced Houston car accident lawyer to learn more about your options.