Even a Minor Collision Can Cause Serious Spinal Cord Injury

Minor vehicle accidents happen every day across the U.S. Perhaps you have had one, or you may find yourself involved in one in the near future.

Victims often walk away from minor accidents, such as a rear-end collision. Others face serious consequences, an example of which is SCI.

Understanding spinal cord injury

It is not uncommon for victims of minor collisions to sustain damage to the spinal cord. SCI, or spinal cord injury, usually results from a traumatic blow that causes a vertebrae fracture or dislocation. The spinal cord, which transmits impulses from the brain to other areas of the body, is very vulnerable to this kind of injury. If damaged, this part of the body cannot repair itself.

Knowing the symptoms

Some signs of SCI are obvious, but symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of an injury. Loss of mobility could signal SCI, for example. If the injury to the spinal cord is close to the neck, paralysis of both arms and legs could result. If the lower back is the site of the injury, paralysis may only affect the legs. Symptoms of SCI that are not immediately recognizable include digestive issues, difficulty breathing and an intense stinging sensation.

Hoping for a cure

It is always advisable to seek medical attention after a car crash, even a minor one. If the spinal cord has sustained an injury, CT scans, as well as other kinds of X-rays and testing, will confirm the location of the injury as well as the extent of damage. Doctors are not yet able to reverse this kind of damage, but medications, prosthetic devices and rehabilitation programs can help patients.

Seeking compensation

If diagnosed with a spinal cord injury, you may face a long hospitalization. The accompanying treatment may take months; in fact, you may require lifelong care. You may find the associated medical expenses overwhelming. However, if a negligent driver caused your injury, you are legally entitled to financial consideration to cover your medical expenses and more, even if that means going to court to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation that you deserve.