From whiplash and herniated discs to more severe spinal injuries, the back is vulnerable to the sudden force of a crash. These injuries aren’t always obvious right away, and many people don’t realize how badly they’re hurt until days after the collision.
If you’ve been involved in a South Carolina car accident, getting prompt medical care not only helps with your recovery but also protects your legal rights if someone else was at fault.
At Savage, Royall & Sheheen, LLP, we understand the immense difficulties you are facing. Our Camden personal injury lawyers team has decades of experience helping clients navigate the complexities of personal injury claims in South Carolina.
Understanding Back Injuries After a South Carolina Car Accident
A back injury after a car accident can range from mild discomfort to serious, life-altering conditions. The human spine is made up of bones, muscles, nerves, and discs, all of which are vulnerable during the violent impact of a collision. Even low-speed accidents can cause the body to jerk or twist in unnatural ways, leading to serious strain or trauma in the back.
Common back injuries following a car accident include:
- Herniated disc
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Spinal fractures
- Whiplash
Back injuries can also lead to long-term complications. Chronic pain, reduced range of motion, and permanent disability are unfortunately common for those who don’t receive early diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms to Watch for After a South Carolina Car Accident
One of the most common early signs of a back injury from a car accident is pain in the neck, upper back, or lower back. This pain may be dull and persistent or sharp and sudden. It might also worsen with movement or while sitting for long periods. Some people experience pain that radiates down into the legs or arms, which could be a sign of nerve compression or a herniated disc.
Other symptoms to watch for include:
- Muscle stiffness or spasms
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the limbs
- Trouble walking or standing for long periods
- Limited range of motion
- Balance issues or coordination problems
In more serious cases, a back injury may cause difficulty controlling bowel or bladder functions. This could be a sign of spinal cord damage.
Medical Treatment for a Back Injury After a Car Accident
Immediately following a car accident, a medical professional will conduct a physical examination and may use diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI, to identify the source of your pain.
For common soft tissue injuries like strains or sprains, initial treatment often involves rest, ice, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, and muscle relaxers. These steps help to manage pain and reduce swelling.
Following this initial phase, physical therapy is a common and crucial component of a treatment plan. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises to strengthen your muscles, restore flexibility, and improve your range of motion. Chiropractic care can also be a beneficial non-surgical option, as it aims to restore proper spinal alignment.
With serious injuries, more aggressive interventions are often needed. Your doctor might recommend pain management injections, such as epidural steroid injections, to provide targeted relief. In some instances, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage and stabilize the spine.
Regardless of the treatment, it is vital to follow all of your doctor’s recommendations to ensure a successful recovery.
Compensation for a Back Injury After a Car Accident in SC
Those who have experienced a back injury car accident in South Carolina may be able to pursue compensation for a wide range of losses. These include:
Medical expenses, such as ER visits, imaging tests, physical therapy, surgery, and medications
- Future medical care, especially if ongoing treatment is needed
- Lost wages, if you’ve missed work due to your injury
- Loss of earning capacity, if your injury impacts your ability to work long-term
- Pain and suffering, including chronic pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life
- Property damage, like the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle
How a South Carolina Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you’ve suffered a back injury after a car accident, physical recovery is only one part of the struggle – understanding the legal process can be overwhelming. That’s where having an experienced South Carolina car accident lawyer makes all the difference.
An attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and determine who was at fault
- Gather critical evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and accident reports
- Connect you with doctors who specialize in treating back injury and car accident victims
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies that often try to downplay injuries or delay claims
- File a personal injury lawsuit if a fair settlement can’t be reached
In cases involving a back injury car accident, proving the full extent of your injuries is key. We work with medical professionals and financial experts to document how the injury has affected your life, now and in the future. This helps ensure you receive the compensation you truly deserve, not just what the insurance company wants to offer.
Contact Our Car Accident Lawyers
Contacting our car accident lawyers immediately is the best step you can take to protect your rights. Our attorneys act as a buffer between you and the insurance companies, who are often looking for ways to minimize your payout.
Savage, Royall, & Sheheen LLC understands the tactics adjusters use and will handle all communication and negotiations on your behalf. This allows you to focus on healing without the pressure of having to make critical legal and financial decisions while you’re vulnerable.
If you have suffered a back injury from a car accident, contact us at 803-432-4391 or visit our office right here in Camden, SC 29020. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and explain how we can help you recover compensation.