A car accident is an event that no one is really prepared for. One moment you are peacefully on route to your destination, and the next your whole world may be altered permanently. Auto accidents can disrupt your life in an instant, leaving you traumatized with physical, emotional, and financial burdens. Among these one of the most devastating and long lasting effects is often a spinal injury. The spine is a complex and extremely vital component of the body that helps you maintain balance, as well as move freely. It is also susceptible to sever damage when involved in a collision. Knowing this, we will be delving into the five main consequences of a spinal injury, as well as shedding light on some of the challenges you may face in your efforts to recover.
1. Physical Impairments: A spinal injury can result in a wide range of physical impairments that can often significantly impact your life. These ailments can range anywhere from soreness to pain, and even difficulty standing for long or short periods of time. While these symptoms may not sound severe the effect on your quality of life can be astounding, Daily activities such as grocery shopping can become extremely strenuous with a spinal injury. Another impairment you may face depending on the severity of the accident and the location of the damage it is possible that you could also experience either partial or complete paralysis, paraplegia, or quadriplegia. (The paralysis of the lower half of your body, or the upper half of your body.) These conditions can require short or long term medical care. This care can range from rehabilitation, spinal injection, or using adaptive equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and other assistive devices. While these impairments may be difficult it is important to not get discouraged in your efforts of treatment.
2. Emotional and Psychological Damages: A car accident can already be traumatic on its own, but dealing with the emotional toll of an injury to the spine can often be overwhelming. It is common to experience feelings of grief, anger, frustration, and depression as you deal with drastic changes in your physical capabilities and overall lifestyle. These changes can lead to feelings of a loss of independence. It may become difficult to continue with daily social interactions, and hobbies that you used to enjoy. This can lead to social isolation and a decreased quality of life. These burdens often are not only placed on the victim, these frequently fall to family, friends, and other loved once who have to adapt to these new circumstances. If you are experiencing feelings of intense depression or loneliness, please reach out to a mental health professional. It is completely normal to feel these things, and you do not have to suffer alone. Seeking therapy can greatly help you adapt to these new changes in your life.
3.Financial Burdens: A back injury can result in exorbitant medical expenses, emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication and therapy can rack up quite the financial toll. The cost of assistive devices and home modifications can also further the strain of your financial resources. In many cases a back injury may make it so you are unable to return to work, or pursue employment, this can lead to another loss of income and long term financial instability. Seeking the help of a personal injury lawyer can help you seek and secure the compensation that you deserve.
4.Rehabilitation and Adaptive Measures: To recover from a spinal injury you will often need extensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. The main role of physical therapy is to help you regain strength, mobility, and independence. Rehabilitation programs may often encompass psychological counseling to address the emotional trauma that may have occurred. IT may be important to seek legal assistance from a personal injury lawyer to ensure that you will be able to have the necessary resources and support you throughout your recovery.
5.Legal Recourse and Compensation: When the negligence of others causes you bodily harm you have the right to seek compensation for your pain and suffering. Seeking the help of a personal injury lawyer is essential to help you navigate the complex legal processes and ensure the compensation that you deserve. This compensation may cover the medical expenses and treatment, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long term care needs. A car accident lawyer can provide you with guidance, collect evidence, and will fight with insurance companies on your behalf to maximize the chances of a fair settlement.
A spinal injury sustained in a car accident can have profound and long lasting effects on your life. From physical impairments to psychological consequences, the challenges are numerous and far reaching. It is vital to understand that you do not have to suffer for the injuries that someone else has caused you. The spinal injury experts at LifeLaw personal injury are here to help you through this complex process. Please contact us for a free consultation today.