Atlanta’s busy streets and highways see their fair share of auto accidents every day, many of which result in serious injuries. One area that is particularly vulnerable to damage is the back. Whether a rear-end collision whips the spine forward and backward or a side-impact crash twists the torso, a car accident can cause immediate and lasting damage.
Common Types of Back Injuries in Atlanta Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in a wide array of back injuries, ranging from minor strains to severe, life-changing conditions. Some of the most common types include:
- Herniated Discs: The vertebrae in the spine are separated by cushioning discs. The force of a collision can cause these discs to rupture or bulge, putting pressure on surrounding nerves.
- Fractured Vertebrae: The impact of a crash can crack or break the bones of the spine. Recovery from vertebral fractures can be a long and expensive process, often requiring rehabilitation.
- Soft Tissue Damage: Sudden movements can strain or tear the muscles, ligaments, and tendons supporting the back. While some soft tissue injuries heal with time and proper care, others can lead to chronic pain and long-term complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: In severe cases, the spinal cord itself can be damaged, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care.
Filing a Claim for Back Injuries Caused by a Car Accident
In Georgia, anyone who has suffered a back injury in a car accident caused by another party’s negligence can file an insurance claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver. The purpose of filing a claim is to seek compensation for damages resulting from the crash, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
The process of filing a claim can be complex, which is why it is important to work with an experienced lawyer. A lawyer can identify the best type of claim to file, negotiate with insurance companies, and even bring your case to court. With an attorney on your side, you can focus less on legal matters and more on what matters most: your healing and recovery.
What to Do If You Hurt Your Back in an Atlanta Car Crash
If you have injured your back in a car accident, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel the injury is minor, to create a record of the damage that you sustained.
- Call 911 to report the accident to the police and ask how to obtain a copy of the report at a later time.
- Document everything related to the accident and your injury. Take photos of the accident scene and obtain contact information from witnesses.
- Exchange information with the other driver but be careful not to say anything about the accident or your injuries.
- Contact an Atlanta car accident lawyer to discuss your case and initiate your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Fight for Your Rights with Monge & Associates by Your Side
Back injuries can be painful and debilitating, and if someone else is responsible, you deserve justice. At Monge & Associates, our Atlanta car accident lawyers know the unique challenges that you face and will leverage their knowledge and experience to fight for you. Call us at (678) 535-3938 or toll-free at (888) 653-0605 to discuss how we can help you pursue the compensation you need to recover.