A car accident resulting in neck and spine injury can make a profound impact on a person’s life.  The forces associated with a car accident are sudden and powerful, often unexpected.  The body is thrashed in multiple directions and often contorted in directions the neck and spine were not meant to bend.  The result could be damage to the spinal cord or the vertebrae and discs which protect it.

It is not unusual for a person to generally feel “ok” after an accident and think they’re fine.  “Just a couple bumps and bruises.  In many cases there is extensive damage to the soft tissue and bones beneath the surface which can take several weeks to present symptoms.

For example, accidents often cause a forces and/or compression of the spine and spinal column.  After a car accident resulting in neck and spine injury the ligaments and muscles of the back fight against one another attempting to pull the skeleton back into alignment.  The forces on the spine results in bulging or herniated discs, or annular tears. Over the next few weeks or months, the symptoms can get progressively worse because the vertebrae may rub directly against one another or against the spinal cord, and associated nerves.  This is obviously quite painful and ultimately a person who thought they were “fine” after the accident winds up immobilized on their back, unable to work or engage their life.

This is why it is important to see a doctor within 24 hours of an accident, even if you think you’re ok.  There could be micro-fractures, or compression fractures, to your vertebrae or damage to the discs in your neck or back.  If you do not see a doctor, the insurance company will reject your claim in 3 or 4 weeks and you will lose the benefits to which you are entitled.  The insurance company will say “You said you were fine after the accident.  You told family members, friends, co-workers and social media you were fine.  Now you’ve obviously injured yourself doing something else and you want to blame the accident to pay for it.”

A car accident resulting in neck and spine injury can result in medical expenses and lost wages which add up over time.  These injuries are quite painful and your recovery can be a long road.  The accident and injury attorneys at Hargadon, Lenihan & Herrington have served Louisville and all of Kentucky since 1924.  We have been recognized by the legal industry for our skill and expertise and are highly recommended by former clients.  If you have been involved in a car accident in Louisville or anywhere in Kentucky make sure you are checked out by a doctor within 24 hours just to be safe, and contact us for a free consultation at (502) 583-9701.  We will hold those responsible for your injuries financially accountable and recover your medical bills, lost wages and compensation for all that you have been forced to endure.