What Arizona Car Accident Victims Should Know About Spinal Cord Injury

What You May Not Know About Your Spinal Cord Injury Case

Becoming paralyzed is probably one of your worst nightmares. If you have been injured in a serious Arizona car accident, this nightmare may have become a reality.

Car and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injury in the United States, accounting for more than 40 percent of new cases each year. A spinal cord injury frequently results in permanent disability or loss of movement and sensation. What is frightening about this type of injury is that it is not always immediately obvious.

Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury
If you have recently been in an auto accident, it is imperative that you familiarize yourself with the common symptoms of a spinal cord injury. According to MayoClinic.com, some of these symptoms include the following:

• Loss of movement (a.k.a. paralysis)
• Loss of sensation
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
• Exaggerated spasms or reflexes
• Difficulty walking
• Numbness
• Significant back pain
• Stinging sensation
• Breathing problems

These symptoms may not surface right away. However, if bleeding or swelling occurs in or around the spinal cord, you may notice some of these warning signs. Medical advice should be pursued immediately.

Treatment of a Spinal Cord Injury
Your doctor will most likely perform tests, such as an x-ray, CT scan or MRI, to determine the extent of the damage. Once your condition is diagnosed, your doctor will move forward with prescribing treatment.

Spinal cord damage cannot be reversed, but doctors can take action to reduce complications. Some of the treatment options include medication, immobilization, and surgery. Rehabilitation is also frequently recommended for people suffering from the impact of a spinal cord injury.

When to Call a Phoenix Car Accident Attorney
If a negligent driver caused your spinal cord injury, you may be able to hold that person accountable and obtain compensation. An experienced Mesa car accident lawyer will be able to review your case and explain your options.

For a free case evaluation, contact AZ Car Accident Attorney at 480-999-0646.

We represent auto accident cases throughout Maricopa County, including Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Avondale, Peoria, Goodyear and Buckeye.