Herniated Disk From Car Accident
You got rear-ended at a stoplight and felt a pop in your back. You're in constant pain, and your doctor says you have a herniated disc. Sound familiar? A herniated disc from a car accident can disrupt your whole life, making everyday activities excruciating. But you have rights.
If you’ve suffered a herniated disc due to another driver’s negligence, the experienced Maryland car accident lawyers at Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum can help protect your rights. Here's what you need to know about your case and how to get the compensation you deserve.
What Is a Herniated Disc and How Do Car Accidents Cause Them?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft, jelly-like center (nucleus) of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the disc's tough, rubbery exterior (annulus). Car accidents are a leading cause of this painful injury, especially rear-end collisions. Here's why:
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Sudden impact. The extreme force of a crash can compress your spine, making discs bulge or rupture.
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Twisting motion. A wreck can violently jolt your body into unnatural positions, tearing fragile disc tissue.
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Preexisting conditions. Even relatively minor accidents can worsen underlying spinal degeneration.
Some herniated disc symptoms show up right away, like shooting pain, numbness, or weakness in your legs. Others emerge more slowly in the days after a crash. Always consult a doctor after an accident, and report any back pain or other concerning symptoms.
Can I Get Compensation for a Herniated Disc After an Accident?
Yes. If another driver's negligence caused your crash and injury, you have the right to seek payment for all the ways your herniated disc has impacted your life, including:
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Medical bills, including surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and future care needs
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Lost income from missing work during your recovery and any lasting disability
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Pain, suffering, and loss of quality of life from no longer being able to do activities you once enjoyed
However, getting fair compensation for a herniated disc isn't automatic. Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of these injuries to avoid paying out the full amount victims deserve. That's why it's crucial to have an experienced and aggressive lawyer in your corner, fighting to protect your rights.
What Should I Do to Protect My Rights After an Accident?
Taking smart steps after a crash can strengthen your herniated disc personal injury claim and help you get the maximum compensation possible:
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See a doctor ASAP. Prompt medical care documents the link between the crash and your injury and rules out other potential causes.
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Follow your treatment plan. Skipping doctor appointments, physical therapy sessions, or medication doses can harm your case.
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Gather strong evidence. Photos of vehicle damage and your injuries, police reports, and witness names all support your claim.
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Track your pain and limitations. Keep a journal detailing your crash experience, pain levels, and how your herniated disc impacts your daily abilities and quality of life.
Most importantly, consult with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer before providing any statements to insurance adjusters. An experienced attorney will protect your interests and fight for what you deserve while you focus on healing.
How Does a Herniated Disc Accident Claim Work?
When you're living with a herniated disc from an accident that wasn't your fault, a skilled lawyer will guide you through the legal process by:
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Thoroughly investigating the crash to identify all potentially liable parties
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Calculating the total value of your damages, including projected future medical expenses
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Gathering compelling evidence to build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation
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Handling all communication and negotiation with insurance companies on your behalf
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Taking your case to trial, if necessary, to pursue full and fair payment for all you've endured
While most herniated disc personal injury claims can be resolved favorably through out-of-court settlements, your attorney will be fully prepared to present a persuasive case before a judge and jury if necessary to achieve the best outcome.
Get Help from an Experienced Maryland Car Accident Lawyer
Living with the pain and limitations of a herniated disc after a crash is frustrating, stressful, and overwhelming. But you don't have to go through the legal process of pursuing compensation on your own. A skilled car accident lawyer can alleviate that burden, giving you peace of mind and fighting to secure every dollar you deserve.
At Meyers, Rodbell & Rosenbaum, we've helped countless Marylanders rebuild their lives after serious car accident injuries like herniated discs. We'll listen to your story, thoroughly review your case, clearly explain your legal options, and fight relentlessly to protect your rights. Let us handle the legal battle while you focus on your recovery.