Rear-end car accidents are common types of collisions in Texas, especially in busy metropolitan areas such as downtown Dallas. They can occur when two vehicles are too close to each other, or if a driver is not paying attention. The forces of a rear-end collision can jerk a victim’s neck and back rapidly forward and backward, causing injuries to different parts of the spinal cord. If you notice back pain after a rear-end car accident, take the correct steps to protect your legal rights.
Car Accidents and Delayed Injuries
Back pain from an injury may or may not be immediately noticeable after a rear-end car accident. Some back and spine injuries have delayed symptoms, meaning a victim may not notice related back pain for hours or even days after the rear-end collision. If the car accident caused a slipped disk, for example, but the disk doesn’t completely herniate until the victim tries to lift a heavy box a few days later, it can be difficult to connect the injury back to the rear-end car accident. This is why it is important to always go to a hospital after a rear-end collision, even if you initially feel fine.
Common Back and Spine Injuries From Rear-End Collisions
Even at a low speed, a car accident can substantially injure the back, neck or spine. The jarring impact of a crash propelling the body forward into a seat belt and then backward onto the seat can cause serious injuries, with symptoms that can persist for months or longer. Common examples of injuries associated with rear-end collisions include:
- Whiplash and other neck injuries
- Pulled or strained muscles and tendons
- Soft-tissue damage
- Slipped or herniated spinal cord disks
- Ruptured disks
- Nerve damage
- Chronic pain
- Shifted vertebrae
- Cracked or broken vertebrae
- Severe spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
If you notice any back pain, stiffness, muscle soreness, headaches, immobility, or tingling or numb sensations in any part of the body, you may have suffered a back injury in the rear-end collision. Keep in mind that these symptoms may occur after the crash due to the nature of the injury or the release of adrenaline. If you believe that you have a back injury from a collision, take immediate steps to protect yourself.
Go to a Doctor Immediately
Get professional medical care as soon as possible after a rear-end collision, even if the crash seemed minor. A doctor can run tests and x-rays to diagnose a back or spinal cord injury, whether or not you are experiencing symptoms. A doctor can tell you how long your symptoms may last, as well as prescribe treatments or medications to help you heal. Going to a hospital immediately can also strengthen your car insurance claim by showing an insurance provider that you did your best to mitigate your losses.
Collect Evidence of Your Injury
You may be eligible for financial compensation for a back injury after a car accident. The at-fault driver may be financially responsible for your related medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. To receive a monetary award, however, you must prove your claim. This includes providing evidence of your losses. If you can, collect evidence to prove your back injury, such as medical records and documents, hospital bills, an injury journal, and medical expert testimony.
Consult With a Car Accident Attorney in Dallas
Next, contact a car accident attorney in Dallas to discuss your legal options. If there is proof that the rear-end collision caused your back pain or spinal cord injury, you may have grounds to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. An attorney can help you with every stage of your injury claim, from investigating your car accident to connecting you to top doctors for your back injury. Contact The Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert, P.C. today for more information about how we can help.
