While some automotive accidents only result in minor injuries, some result in very serious injuries such as nerve damage. Such injuries can result in serious consequences to the victim. Filing a personal injury claim can help traffic accident victims to recover the expenses associated with their injuries including payment for medical expenses and lost wages.
The Function of Nerves
Nerve damage is considered a serious injury because nerves serve important roles in the human body. They also allow humans to live normal and healthy lives. When nerves are damaged, the consequences can be quite severe. Sometimes, nerve damage causes victims to suffer debilitating consequences. Damage may be permanent and may prevent victims from being able to work.
Nerve damage is a serious injury and should be treated as such. If you have suffered this type of injury after a car crash, you might be able to file a traffic accident compensation claim. A personal injury lawyer can walk you through what happens in an average settlement for a car accident.
Types of Nerve Damage
There are variety of types of nerve damage that can emerge after being involved in an automotive accident. Each type of nerve damage carries with it a unique series of symptoms and potential treatment options. Nerve damage is often caused because the nerve feels pressure, stretches or is cut.
One of the most common types of nerve damage occurs because of whiplash. This common automotive accident injury is caused by the momentum of the head and neck as it jerks during an accident. The nerves may stretch or be pinched.
Another common type of nerve damage occurs because of lacerations. Lacerations are deep cuts in the skin. These injuries can sometimes cut deep enough to reach the nerves and sever them in the affected area in the body. Blunt-force trauma can also cause nerve damage. If an automotive accident victim hits his or her head, arms, legs or other body parts on a hard surface, the victim can compress his or her nerves.
Nerve Damage Treatment
The type of treatment that is necessary depends on the cause of the damage and the severity of the injury. Some injuries can be treated with physical therapy and mediation while others require intensive surgery. A trained medical professional is necessary to diagnose the type of nerve damage and to provide an opinion about the treatment option that is recommended.
Signs of Nerve Damage
Individuals who suffer from nerve damage often suffer from some or all of the following symptoms:
• a prickling sensation
• skin or limbs that feel like they are numb or tingling
• weakness or pain in their muscles
• full or partial paralysis of arms, legs, fingers or toes
• twitching or other uncontrolled muscle movements
• greater sensitivity of the skin when in contact with colder or warmer temperature
Individuals who have any of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention and ask a medical professional about the possibility of nerve damage. Medical professionals can properly diagnose and treat nerve damage.
Damages Associated with Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can often result in substantial medical bills. Additionally, nerve damage can impact a person’s ability to earn a living. Victims may take years to fully recover from their injuries through treatment and rehabilitation, if at all. Many times, victims are unable to fully recover to their former level.
Legal Assistance
Individuals who have sustained nerve damage due to an automotive accident may wish to consult with a personal injury lawyer regarding the possibility of filing a personal injury lawsuit and pursuing compensation for the injuries that they have suffered. A personal injury lawyer can help estimate damages related to medical expenses by consulting with the victim’s treating physician to determine current and future medical needs. A treating physician can also provide guidance on how a patient’s nerve damage may impact their ability to work or complete other life activities.
A personal injury lawyer can also discuss the applicable statute of limitations in the state where the lawsuit is being filed. Many personal injury claims are resolved without filing a lawsuit or prior to trial through settlement negotiations or mediation.
