Car Accident Spinal Cord Injuries

Car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. There are approximately 17,730 new spinal cord injury cases each year, and car accidents are responsible for 39.3 percent of these injuries. Spinal cord injuries are often severe and may result in varying degrees of paralysis.

Incomplete and Complete Injuries

A spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord or surrounding nerves are damaged, often resulting in a loss of motor control, strength, sensation, and control of other bodily functions. There are two main types of spinal cord injuries, incomplete and complete.

An incomplete spinal cord injury is when a person’s spinal cord is only partially damaged and they retain some sensation and motor control. A complete spinal cord injury is when the spinal cord is completely damaged, resulting in total loss of all motor and sensory function below the site of injury.

Spinal Cord Injuries from Car Accidents

Spinal cord injuries from car accidents vary in type and severity. The following spinal injuries can occur during a car accident:

• Cervical spinal cord injuries tend to be the most severe because they are the closest to the brain and typically result in sensory function.
• Thoracic Injuries to the upper-middle part of the back, known as the thoracic spine, typically affect the abdominal and lower back muscles, and the legs.
• Lumbar injuries, or lower back injuries, may result in loss of function in the hips and legs, as well as loss of bowel or bladder control.
• Sacral spine injuries typically occur from direct trauma and can affect the hips, legs, and pelvic organs. The sacral spine is located below the lumbar spine.

Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms

Depending on the location of the spinal cord injury, a person may experience various symptoms, including:

• Difficulty breathing and other lung problems
• Extreme pain or weakness
• Lack of coordination
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Loss of libido
• Loss of sensation
• Numbness or tingling sensation
• Pain caused by nerve damage
• Paralysis

Treatments for Injuries

Drivers who have suffered a spinal cord injury may need rehabilitation, physical therapy, medication, and counseling. Spinal cord injuries can be costly, especially when they result in paralysis or other severe life-altering injuries. Treatments for injuries can be extensive, so it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible to help pay for pricey treatments.

Edwardsville Car Accident Lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC Obtain Compensation for Car Accident Victims with Spinal Cord Injuries

If you sustained an injury from a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced Edwardsville car accident lawyers at The Cates Law Firm, LLC will fight for you to obtain the maximum compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call us at 618-277-3644 for a free consultation regarding your case. Located in Swansea, Illinois, we also serve clients in Belleville, Carbondale, East St. Louis, Granite City, Chester, Waterloo, St. Louis, Madison County, St. Clair County, Monroe County, and Randolph County.