April 12, 2024 | Accidents

Car accidents are devastating and traumatic events. While these accidents can occur in a split second, the devastation can last many years thereafter. This is especially true when the accident results in a back injury. Back injuries are often catastrophic injuries that have life-altering consequences on the victim. Below, we take a look at the different types of back injuries that can occur in a car accident. We also look at what you should do when injured in a car accident by a negligent driver.

Common Types of Crash Related Back Injuries

1. Whiplash – Whiplash is one of the most common back injuries that can occur as a result of a car accident. It is an injury that occurs in the neck and the upper region of the spine. This type of injury is as a result of the strain placed on the spine when the body is forcefully and suddenly jerked back and forth during impact in a car accident. Soft tissues, muscles and ligaments in the neck and upper back region are torn and damaged as a result.
2. Herniated disc – this is a type of injury that occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column rupture or bulge. The injury can occur as a result of the force of impact in a car accident. Herniated discs put pressure on the nerves leaving the spine. This causes pain, numbness and even weakness in the back and limbs depending on the location of the herniated disc.
3. Spinal fractures – This catastrophic injury can occur as a result of the forces in a high-impact collision. When the vertebrae of the spinal column fracture it can result in pain and loss of sensation in the limbs. If there is damage to the spinal cord, the victim may suffer paralysis as well as loss of function in the limbs and organs below the site of injury.
4. Sprains and strains – aside from whiplash, car accident victims can also suffer sprains and strains in other parts of the back. The muscles and ligaments in the back can become strained or sprained due to sudden and forceful impact of the collision leading to pain, stiffness and limited mobility.
5. Compression fractures – compression fractures are injuries that occur when the vertebrae collapse and fracture. This can occur as a result of extreme forces in a high speed collision. These fractures can result in severe pain and even loss in sensation in the limbs.
6. Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spinal cord is the most serious type of back injury. It can result in permanent loss of sensation in the limbs. It can also result in permanent loss of function of the limbs as well as organs below the injury site. Spinal cord injuries can also result in complications such as infections and blood clots.

Common Symptoms of Back Injury after a Car Accident

While some back injuries are obvious following a car accident, the symptoms of other back injuries may not be apparent until much later. It is important to be aware of the symptoms of back injury to ensure you get the treatment you need as soon as possible. This will help to manage the injury and prevent further complications. The following are some warning signs that you may have a back injury:

• Pain along the spine – this can range from mild to severe
• Pain radiating from the buttocks and legs
• Stiffness in the back
• Muscle spasms
• Tingling or numbness in the arms, hands, legs or feet
• Difficulty walking, standing or moving the arms

What To Do If You are Injured by A Negligent Driver

If you have been injured in a car accident caused by a negligent driver, it is essential that you take the steps below to protect your health and protect your legal rights:

1. Seek medical attention immediately – even if the pain is mild or you only feel a tingling in your arms, you should seek medical evaluation immediately. Have your injuries assessed including the back and spine to ensure that there are no hidden injuries.
2. Document the scene of the accident – if you are able to, take photographs and videos of the scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions and any visible injuries.
3. Report the accident – contact law enforcement to report the accident and obtain an official police report.
4. Exchange information – get the contacts and insurance information of the other drive. You should also obtain contact information of any witness that may have seen the collision.
5. Consult an attorney – Contact a personal injury attorney that specializes in car accident cases. An experienced attorney such as those at High & Youness Attorneys in Omaha will help to protect your rights.

Contact High & Younes Attorneys for free consultation with an experienced car accident attorney and learn about your rights and how we can help secure your future.

Back Injury from Omaha Car Accident