Jason Stephens | August 29, 2023 | Car Accidents
Car accidents can turn life upside down in an instant. The screeching tires, the sudden impact, and the jarring force happen so quickly. Amid such chaos, our bodies often bear the brunt of the collision’s energy. The hard hits lead to various injuries.
Among the most common and debilitating are back injuries. This guide emphasizes the significance of receiving appropriate medical care and legal aid.
The Impact of Car Accidents on Back Injuries
The fifth-largest city in Texas is Fort Worth. As a bustling hub, it hosts a population exceeding 935,000 residents. The convergence of a dense population and the intricate road network sets the stage for a significant frequency of car accidents.
In 2022, Fort Worth bore witness to the following car accident statistics:
- A staggering 13,401 total motor vehicle collisions.
- Out of this group, 516 people suffered from serious injuries.
- The heartbreaking loss of 120 lives further underscored the toll of these accidents. It is a stark reminder of the potential gravity of some of these incidents.
Car accidents in Fort Worth have been on the rise since 2019. These statistics show the real lives of residents, families, and friends. Highlighted here is the pressing need for awareness and precaution.
Common Back Injuries Resulting From Car Accidents
Here are some common types of back injuries that can occur:
- As a result of sudden head movement during a car accident, whiplash strains the neck and upper back muscles. Victims with whiplash endure pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
- When the cushions between the bones in your back, called vertebrae, move or break because of a crash, it can lead to a problem called herniated discs. This can result in extreme back pain, numbing, tingling sensations, and weakness in your arms or legs.
- Fractures in vertebrae due to high-impact collisions risk severe spinal cord injuries, causing pain, limited mobility, and paralysis.
- Accidents can cause the spine to compress, resulting in compression injuries that can cause pain, limit the range of motion, and damage nerves.
Injury severity can vary, ranging from minor discomfort to life-altering conditions.
Seeking Medical Attention: A Priority
After a car accident, seeking immediate medical attention is crucial, even if you don’t initially feel pain. Back injuries might not manifest symptoms immediately and can worsen over time if left untreated.
A medical evaluation can ensure appropriate care and identify potential injuries. It can also help to establish a link between the accident and your injuries, which may prove critical in terms of any legal claims you may make.
Legal Implications: Protecting Your Rights
It’s important to consider the legal aspects if your car accident resulted in a back injury. Stephens Law specializes in personal injury cases and can help you navigate the legal complexities.
If another party’s negligence or wrongdoing caused the accident, you could receive compensation for medical bills, missed work income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Steps To Take After a Car Accident
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident can be a disorienting experience. Certain steps can safeguard your well-being and potential legal rights amid the chaos.
- Document the accident scene if you’re physically able. Take photos of the cars involved, the area surrounding the accident, and any visible or suspected injuries.
- Get the contact and insurance information of any other drivers or potential witnesses involved in the accident.
- Focus on seeking medical attention. This applies even if you feel fine immediately after the accident.
- Keep track of medical records, bills, and any other paperwork related to your injuries. These documents can be crucial for your legal case.
- Contact a legal professional like Stephens Law to discuss your case. They can provide valuable guidance on how to proceed and protect your rights.
In the wake of a car accident, these steps collectively form a comprehensive approach to safeguarding your immediate well-being and future legal interests.
Safety Measures for Preventing Back Injuries
While accidents can happen suddenly, these are actions you can take to limit the threat of back injuries:
- Adjust your seat and headrest to ensure your body is supported and aligned while driving.
- Always wear your seatbelt, which can reduce the impact force during a collision.
- Keeping a safe distance from the car in front of you can give you more time to react and avoid accidents.
- Following traffic rules and speed limits can improve driving conditions.
Car accidents and back injuries can long-term affect your health and well-being. Seeking medical attention and consulting a legal professional can impact your recovery. Both are crucial to pursuing fair and merited compensation.
Stephens Law in Fort Worth, Texas, is here to provide expert legal guidance tailored to your unique situation. Your health and rights matter; taking the right steps can make all the difference.
Contact Our Car Accident Law Firm in Fort Worth, TX
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Fort Worth and need legal help, contact our Fort Worth car accident lawyers at Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents to schedule a free consultation.
Stephens Law Personal Injury | Wrongful Death | Truck Accidents
1300 S University Dr # 300
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 420-7000