In an instant, a life can be forever altered in a motor vehicle crash. Serious injuries, such as those to the neck, are, unfortunately, a common occurrence after a car accident. If you suffer from one after being involved in a collision, your pain and suffering can be long-lasting, because the neck is a fragile system composed of muscles, ligaments, nerves, and soft tissues. After seeking medical treatment, it’s a good idea to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
Injuries may not always be apparent in the immediate aftermath of an accident. If you are involved in a crash and experience neck (or back) problems, you should consider hiring a lawyer to help safeguard your future. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent. You may start to experience problems days, weeks, or even months after the accident. Your lawyer will help make sure you get the medical care that you need, that your rights are protected, and that those who caused your injury are held responsible.
The experienced attorneys at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law will file a claim for your neck (& other) injuries. They’ll work to ensure that your family has the means to pay for your medical bills, treatments, lost wages, and other financial problems and losses you face as a result of the accident.
Common Types of Neck Injuries
Even a minor car crash can cause severe injuries, it’s important to always seek medical treatment as soon as possible after being involved in a car accident. Some injuries result in acute or chronic pain, weakness, and even disability. Common types of neck injuries you might experience include:
As soon as possible after the accident, you should visit your healthcare provider to be examined. In many instances, your doctor will use imaging, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to get a better look at your neck. You may be referred to an orthopedic specialist for further evaluation, especially for soft tissue injuries. The notes and diagnostic tests your doctor performs will be important documentation in case your injuries turn out to be more severe than you originally thought.
Symptoms of a Neck Injury
Neck injuries suffered after a motor vehicle collision can make your neck hurt, but also potentially affects other parts of your body, making it difficult to know that the root of your pain is the neck injury. You might experience a range of symptoms and immediate pain. You also may not experience obvious pain in the aftermath of the accident because signs of an injury may not surface until later. Signs to watch for in the immediate aftermath and subsequent time after the accident include:
- Throbbing or shooting pain
- Limited range of motion/neck stiffness
- Pain when turning the head
- Muscle spasms and/or tightness
- Jaw pain
- Pain between shoulders
- Pain radiating to arms and hands
- Chronic headaches
- Excess fatigue
- Nausea
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Blurred vision
- Memory issues
- Mood changes (e.g., anxiety, depression, or irritability)
- Sleep difficulties
- Numbness in arms
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Swelling in neck or throat
- Ringing of ears
If you suffer any of the above or even any other minor symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Some pain will worsen with activity and over time. When neck injuries are left untreated, they can result in permanent injury, which also includes chronic pain. This can significantly decrease your quality of life or affect your ability to do the daily activities you need to perform or simply enjoy doing. Document any symptoms you experience on a daily basis and provide this information to your doctor and attorney.
Will a Car Accident Lawsuit Be Necessary to Get Justice?
Texas is an “at fault” state, which means that the insurance company of the driver at fault will be the responsible party for paying out any claims associated with an automobile collision. However, sometimes insurance coverage isn’t enough to cover medical, personal property, and other expenses associated with an accident. The State of Texas permits injured persons to file lawsuits against at-fault drivers.
If you or a loved one has been injured, it’s important to call a car accident neck injury attorney as soon as possible. The neck is a very vulnerable part of your body, and any injury it suffers could lead to a debilitating condition, especially if left untreated. In some circumstances, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve enduring symptoms. Pursuing medical treatment is costly, both in the aftermath of an accident and in subsequent years if a condition turns out to be chronic. If pre-lit negotiations are not effective, your attorney can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf to ensure that you have the financial resources you need to take care of yourself and your family. A neck injury in a car accident lawsuit will also ensure that the person or party responsible for your accident is held accountable.
Texas is also what’s called a “modified comparative fault” state, which means you might be assigned a percentage of blame. An attorney by your side can help determine the best course of action.
Call a Car Accident Neck Injury Lawyer Today
Life after a car accident can be difficult, especially when a serious injury, such as one to the neck, occurs. If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motor vehicle crash, it’s a good idea to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. In most instances, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing. Your attorney can advise you if your case might qualify for special circumstances.
The neck injury accident lawyer at Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law is here to help you and your family get justice. Terry Bryant Accident & Injury Law has been helping Texas injury victims since 1985. Contact our Houston law office today at 713-973-8888 or toll-free 1-800-444-5000 for your free consultation.
Attorney Terry Bryant
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]
