CHICAGO, IL – Neck and back injuries after a car accident can vary in severity from whiplash that heals in a few weeks to an injury more catastrophic like lifelong paralysis; however, neck and back injuries are a common occurrence in road traffic accidents, and you can claim your medical costs and the pain and suffering that resulted. A skilled personal injury attorney will present your case to the insurance company and the court. The courts look for evidence, such as medical reports, details of sessions with therapists, and your pain management plan.
Determining neck and back injuries
At the site of the accident, you should take note of any neck and back pain you feel. Some of these may present immediately while others may emerge after. It’s important you are seen by a medical practitioner directly after a car accident or as soon as symptoms begin to show. Some of these symptoms may include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches or migranes
- Not being able to turn your neck at its full range
- Bruises and other marks of injury
- Muscles that feel weak, cramp or spasm
- Clicking in your back and/or neck during movement
- Localized pain in your neck or back
- Tingling sensations or numbness
Tingling and numbness can occur elsewhere in the body and still be a sign of back or neck injury which is why it’s important to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible if you have any of these symptoms.
Expenses incurred after a car accident
While you can claim for certain expenses like medical bills that resulted from a car accident, you should be aware that you can constitute a claim for the costs you anticipate in the future. Damages in your back and neck also comprise:
- Income lost due to the accident and subsequent injuries, as well as future income if you can no longer work.
- Rehabilitation costs to restore function, even if only partial success is possible.
- At-home nursing care.
- Pain and suffering.
- Punitive damages, although it’s important to note are rarely claimed in car accidents.
Proving your case
The first step to making a claim is to find a skilled attorney in your area to take your case. Your attorney will advise you on what proof you need to collect your claim. Your attorney will likely ask you to record detailed descriptions of your daily struggles since the car wreck. You should also record the physical aspects, including pain severity and length, and activities you’ve missed out on but cannot perform since the accident. Your mental suffering should also be journaled, such as the emotions you experience and any depression you feel.
Witness statements are also crucial to be presented to the court, in addition to photos or videos of the accident scene. Reports by medical doctors, medical specialists and therapists, including physical or occupational therapists, as they help form your case that your lawyer will present to both the judge and the jury.
Receive a free case evaluation
A knowledgeable attorney will use the evidence to demonstrate the extent of your pain and suffering in addition to the medical costs, vehicle replacement amounts, and so forth that can be easily evaluated. Pain and suffering awards differ from state to state depending on the factors each will consider and any caps that have been legislated.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident and want to inquire on whether you can begin a claim for your injuries caused by the wreck.
Call our office at (312) 384-1920 for a free consultation and case evaluation today!