Spinal injuries can be devastating, potentially resulting in paralysis, chronic pain, and a loss of independence. The severity of these injuries often calls for significant medical expenses, time off work, and lifestyle changes. However, misconceptions about spinal injuries in personal injury claims can lead to confusion and frustration for those seeking compensation. As a law firm specializing in personal injury cases, we want to debunk a few common myths about spinal injuries.
Myth #1: You can only claim compensation for obvious spinal injuries.
Fact: Spinal injuries are often not immediately apparent, and symptoms may develop days or weeks after an incident. Additionally, some spinal injuries may not result in visible changes or restrictions in movement but can still significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Therefore, it’s important to seek medical attention and document any changes in health even if you do not initially exhibit symptoms.
Myth #2: Minor spinal injuries are inconsequential and not worth pursuing.
Fact: Minor spinal injuries can still result in chronic pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. They can also have a significant impact on your daily life, including work, hobbies, and relationships. Moreover, without proper treatment and rehabilitation, minor spinal injuries can develop into more severe health concerns.
Myth #3: Spinal injuries only occur in high-speed accidents.
Fact: Spinal injuries can occur in any type of accident, including those at low speeds or even those in non-motor vehicle-related incidents such as falls or assaults. It’s essential to seek medical attention after any accident, regardless of the severity or how the injury occurred.
Myth #4: You can’t claim compensation for pre-existing spinal injuries.
Fact: Pre-existing spinal injuries can become aggravated or worsened by accidents, which could significantly impact a person’s health and quality of life. Thus, claimants can claim compensation for exacerbations of pre-existing injuries and expenses related to such aggravations.
Myth #5: Spinal injuries claims are always straightforward.
Fact: Personal injury claims involving spinal injuries can be complex, requiring a significant amount of research, documentation, and legal expertise. Each case is unique, and the amount of compensation differs based on the severity and the effect of the spinal injury on one’s life. An attorney with extensive experience handling spinal injury cases can provide valuable guidance and help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your suffering.
Myth #6: A severe spinal injury is always evident.
Fact: It is a popular belief that spinal injuries always exhibit visible signs. However, while some injuries like fractures, dislocations, and herniated discs may be evident, others are not. Spinal cord damage, for example, is quite difficult to diagnose and may manifest in symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, and even paralysis.
Myth #7: Whiplash is not a severe injury.
Fact: Whiplash injury is a soft tissue injury commonly sustained in car collisions and is often the subject of scrutiny in spinal injury claims. However, the notion that it is not a serious injury is a gross understatement. Whiplash can cause lingering pain, headaches, and other complications. In reality, whiplash could also indicate a more significant spinal injury that requires extensive and costly medical treatment.
At the W. Winston Briggs Law Firm, we aim to provide clients with the best legal representation possible when handling spinal injury personal injury claims. By debunking these common myths about spinal injuries, we hope to help claimants better understand the process and their rights to compensation. If you’ve suffered a spinal injury, be sure to seek medical attention and consult with an experienced personal injury attorney.
Fulton County Personal Injury Lawyers
Trust the W. Winston Briggs Law Firm to provide exceptional legal representation in spinal injury personal injury claims. If you’ve suffered a spinal injury, seek medical attention and consult with our experienced personal injury attorneys to understand your rights to fair compensation. Contact us today by calling (470) 287-5869, or by filling out the secure form on our website to schedule your consultation.