Robins Car Accident Injury Attorneys

Sudden accidents and injuries can disrupt lives. During these difficult periods, car accident injury lawyers become essential allies. They fight for those injured due to others' carelessness, ensuring just compensation. This article underscores the crucial role these lawyers play in helping people navigate their claims and restore normalcy.

Fractured Vertebrae after Car Accident

The vertebrae are the bones in the spinal column that protect the spinal cord. An injury to the vertebrae can result in serious complications, including damage to the spinal cord. Fractured vertebrae may put pressure on the spinal cord and in some cases, fragments of bone might pierce the spinal cord.

Types of Fractured Vertebrae

The University of Iowa Department of Orthopaedics & Rehabilitation outlines five serious vertebra injuries:

- Compression Fracture: The spinal column is forced forward and down, typically resulting from being hit by a vehicle from behind.
- Burst Fracture: Part of the vertebra is shattered and may penetrate the spinal cord, leading to severe consequences.
- Subluxation: The joints in the back of the vertebrae become weak, causing abnormal movement of the bones.
- Dislocation: The vertebrae become out of alignment.
- Fracture Dislocation: The vertebrae not only dislocate but also fracture.

All spinal injuries should be taken seriously and require immediate medical attention.

Causes and Symptoms of Crushed Vertebrae

A vertebral compression fracture requires significant trauma to the back, such as in a head-on collision or when a victim is pinned inside the vehicle. Common symptoms include:

- Pain in the injured area
- Pain spreading to other parts of the back, neck, hips, stomach, and thighs
- Tingling, weakness, and numbness
- Severe cases may result in loss of feeling and paralysis

Treatment for Vertebra and Spinal Cord Injuries

Medical care is essential for any spinal injury. Treatments for a compression fracture often start with conservative measures such as:

- Rest
- Back brace
- Ice/heat therapy
- Medication (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants)

Severe injuries may require hospital admission and surgery, followed by physical therapy to strengthen muscles and prevent further injury. Recovery times vary based on the severity of the injury.

Pursuing Compensation for Fractured Vertebrae

Victims of car accidents causing vertebra injuries can pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket expenses. An attorney can help quantify noneconomic damages like pain and suffering. Claims can be filed against the other party’s liability insurance or through a lawsuit if necessary.

Cervical Fusion for Neck Injury from a Car Accident

Neck injuries from car accidents may require a cervical fusion procedure. This surgery joins bones in the neck to increase stability. It is performed by taking bone from another part of the body, using a bone graft, or using metal plates to fuse vertebrae.

When is Cervical Fusion Performed?

Cervical fusion may be recommended to prevent spinal cord damage, straighten the spine after misalignment, or treat herniated discs and fractures. If another’s negligence caused the injury, an Iowa personal injury lawyer can help recover treatment costs.

Post-Surgery Expectations and Prognosis

Post-surgery, patients may need a cane for mobility and a neck brace for several weeks. Physical therapy begins shortly after the procedure. Recovery includes avoiding driving and strenuous activity until cleared by a doctor. Short walks are beneficial but overexertion should be avoided.

Cervical fusion typically takes three hours and requires a hospital stay. Although it can relieve pain and symptoms, it is not always a permanent fix, and complications may arise, necessitating further treatment.

Risks and Complications of Cervical Fusion

Potential risks include:

- Blood clots
- Stiffness in the neck
- Pain at the donor site
- Injury to the spinal cord or nerves
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Rejection of the bone graft
- Problems at the surgical site, such as implant failure

These risks underscore the importance of thorough medical and legal guidance.

Medical Bills and Insurance Claims After a Car Accident

In Iowa, there is no threshold for medical bills before an insurance company pays. Submit all medical expenses for reimbursement. A personal injury lawyer can help navigate the claims process and ensure fair compensation.

Insurance Claim Process

An insurance adjuster may separate medical expenses into diagnostic and treatment categories. Diagnostics are as important as treatment, as proper diagnosis is necessary for effective treatment. Reducing special damages (medical expenses) can lower the total claim amount, so thorough documentation and legal representation are crucial.

Seeking Legal Assistance

Seeking legal counsel from experienced Iowa car accident attorneys such as those at Walker, Billingsley & Bair can provide invaluable support in filing insurance claims or pursuing personal injury lawsuits. With a comprehensive understanding of Iowa law, their team can help gather evidence, establish liability, and secure the compensation deserved by accident victims.

Suffering from the aftermath of a car accident shouldn't impede your pursuit of justice and fair compensation. The Iowa injury lawyers at Walker, Billingsley & Bair work hard to level the field between injured Iowans and insurance companies.

That's why we provide this FREE book; The Legal Insider's Guide to Iowa Car Accidents: 7 Secrets to Not Wreck Your Case. To learn more about what our legal team will do to help you protect your Iowa injury claim, contact Walker, Billingsley & Bair to schedule a no-cost consultation. Call 641-792-3595 to order your free accident book today.