Neck injuries are common in car accidents, often resulting from sudden impact and rapid head movement. These injuries can range from mild to severe and may have long-lasting effects on the victim’s health and well-being. Treating a neck injury after a car accident alleviates pain, promotes healing, and prevents further complications.
The attorneys with Sand Law are ready to help if you’ve suffered a neck injury in a car crash that wasn’t your fault. If you would like to learn more about how we can work to get you the money you have coming, call 701-609-1510 or use our online contact form for a free case review.
How Car Accidents Cause Neck Injuries
Car accidents can cause neck injuries due to sudden and forceful movements during impact. These movements can strain or damage the delicate structures in the neck, including muscles, ligaments, tendons, discs, and nerves. You’ll learn more about some of the specific types of neck injuries in the next section.
Common Types of Neck Injuries After a Car Accident
Any neck injury can lead to intense pain and debilitation. While some might be considered “minor,” others can make it impossible for victims to enjoy the quality of life they’re used to. These are just a few neck injuries resulting from a crash.
- Whiplash: Whiplash is the most common type of neck injury in car accidents. It involves the rapid and forceful movement of the head, leading to strain or sprain in the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and restricted range of motion.
- Herniated disc: A car accident can also cause a herniated disc in the neck. This occurs when the soft cushioning discs between the vertebrae rupture or bulge, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves. Symptoms may include neck pain, radiating arm pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness.
- Cervical fractures: Severe car accidents can result in cervical spine (neck) fractures. These fractures can vary in severity, from hairline fractures to complete breaks. Neck fractures often require immediate medical attention and may lead to instability, nerve damage, or paralysis.
Treatment for Neck Injuries
The treatment for neck injuries after a car accident depends on the type and severity of the injury. Here are some standard treatment options:
Rest and Activity Modification
Mild neck injuries may require rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain. Temporary modifications to daily activities may be necessary to allow the neck to heal.
Pain Management
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger medications.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help strengthen the neck muscles, improve the range of motion, and alleviate pain. Therapists may use manual therapy, exercises, stretching, and heat or cold therapy.
Immobilization
In more severe cases, immobilization may be necessary to stabilize the neck. This can involve wearing a neck brace or collar to restrict movement and allow the injured structures to heal.
Injections
Doctors may also recommend administering injections of corticosteroids or numbing medications to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and promote healing. These injections can provide significant relief.
Surgery
Surgery may be required in rare cases where conservative treatments are ineffective or the injury is severe. This can involve spinal fusion, disc replacement, or decompression to alleviate nerve compression and stabilize the neck.
How Much Does it Cost to Treat a Neck Injury?
The cost of treating a neck injury after a car accident can vary significantly depending on the severity of the injury, the type of treatment required, the duration of treatment, and other factors. Expenses may include medical consultations, diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRI scans), medications, physical therapy sessions, immobilization devices, injections, and surgical procedures if necessary.
Medical costs can accumulate quickly, especially if ongoing treatment or surgical interventions are required. The cost of treating a neck injury can include immediate medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, and potential future medical needs. You’ll need to hire a lawyer as soon as possible to have the best chance of obtaining compensation for these and other accident-related expenses.
The Mental Cost of a Neck Injury
In addition to the physical pain and financial burden, neck injuries can significantly impact a person’s mental well-being. Chronic pain, reduced mobility, and limitations in daily activities can lead to emotional distress, anxiety, depression, and a decreased quality of life.
The mental toll of a neck injury shouldn’t be underestimated. Victims must seek emotional support and counseling if needed.
Receiving Compensation for Your Neck Injury
If you’ve suffered a neck injury in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. Seeking legal assistance from a car accident attorney is crucial in this process. An experienced attorney can assess the value of your claim and negotiate with insurance companies. They can also take your case to trial if the insurer refuses to make a fair settlement offer.
Compensation for a neck injury may include the following:
- Medical expenses: These include compensation for past and future medical expenses related to your neck injury, including hospital bills, consultations, tests, medications, physical therapy, and surgical procedures.
- Lost wages: If your neck injury has resulted in time away from work or a reduced ability to earn income, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: You could receive money for your physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and the overall impact of the neck injury on your quality of life.
- Rehabilitation costs: The ongoing rehabilitation and therapy required for your neck injury could be extensive, resulting in significant costs.
- Property damage: If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, you may be eligible for compensation to repair or replace them.
Contact Sand Law to Speak to a Car Accident Attorney
Consulting with a skilled car accident attorney will maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your neck injury. An experienced lawyer, such as those at Sand Law, can provide personalized guidance, protect your rights, and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal proceedings.
By seeking legal assistance, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that a seasoned professional is working to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your neck injury. Schedule a free consultation by contacting us online or calling 701-609-1510.
