Motor vehicle crashes can lead to a host of injuries, some of which have to do with the spinal cord. When the spinal cord is damaged, the victim can suffer significant effects that range from temporary to permanent.
For most people, spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are noticeable at the scene of the wreck. They may have intense back pain or be unable to move certain parts of the body. It’s critical that they receive proper medical care, which starts with immediate immobilization of the spinal cord.
1: Classifications of SCIs
SCIs are classified based on the nerve damage in the area and the location of the injury. When nerves are fully severed, the injury is complete. When there are still nerves connected, the injury is incomplete.
The spinal cord is divided into four sections. The cervical spine is the highest, and the thoracic, lumbar and sacral spine are below that. The areas of the body that are affected by an SCI are always lower than the location of the injury.
2: Recovery can vary greatly
Typically, incomplete injuries have a better chance of recovery than complete injuries. This is because there are still nerve pathways for signals to travel through the location of the damage. The time between the injury and the quality of medical care can also directly impact the recovery.
The cost of a SCI extends beyond the exorbitant medical bills. People who have this type of injury may also have home and vehicle modifications, and they may not be able to work because of the injury. Seeking compensation can help them to hold the negligent driver accountable for the financial damages. Time is limited to get the case file, so working with someone familiar with these matters may make it easier to meet those deadlines.
