A spinal cord injury is one of the most debilitating possible traumas. Motor vehicle collisions are one of the top causes of spinal cord injuries in the United States. A variety of different types of crashes, ranging from T-bone collisions to a car striking a pedestrian, could potentially cause spinal cord injuries.
Some spinal cord injuries are complete injuries. The person hurt experiences an immediate and complete loss of function below the injury site. They likely cannot exit the vehicle safely and may go to the hospital for immediate trauma care after they get hurt. Incomplete spinal cord injuries are also a possibility after a crash. Someone may have damage to their spinal cord that does not eliminate basic functions. People need immediate care for incomplete injuries as well, as they could get worse after the initial crash.
Secondary trauma can cause severe consequences
The force of the initial collision could be enough to cause damage to someone’s spinal cord, but the wreck may not have been powerful enough to actually sever their spinal cord. People may feel as though they got lucky if they incur an incomplete injury, as they retain sensation and some motor function despite the possibility of impairment.
However, if someone gets in a motor vehicle or goes back to work with an incomplete injury, they could very soon lose the function the initial injury preserved. All it takes is an abrupt motion or strain on the spine for a previously incomplete spinal cord injury to worsen.
Those who have signs of a spinal cord injury typically require emergency care. Paramedics may stabilize them by securing them for transportation to the hospital. Afterward, they may need to undergo a thorough medical evaluation. Someone may require extensive trauma support and rehabilitative care before they can perform tasks of daily life without the risk of worsening their injury.
Incomplete injuries are still expensive
Even if someone follows proper medical instructions and avoids worsening an incomplete spinal cord injury, they probably have major expenses. The cost of treating an incomplete injury can easily add up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Additional medical support is likely necessary for the rest of someone’s life. An incomplete spinal cord injury could also affect their work, as some lingering functional limitations are likely with incomplete injuries. Those dealing with catastrophic injuries caused by a car crash may need assistance as they pursue compensation.
Negotiating with insurance providers or preparing to go to civil court for a personal injury lawsuit can be very difficult in the wake of an injurious collision. Having the right assistance can take much of the pressure off of someone injured in a car crash. Those who understand the long-term impact of their injuries can better utilize the rules in place for the protection of those harmed by others.