Some injuries in an accident can be devastating and completely change an individual’s quality of life. The potential for this with nerve damage is quite high, since nerves are responsible for carrying messages to the brain.
Additionally, nerves are also responsible for helping to control blood pressure, movements and the ability to feel sensations such as pain and temperature.
When a serious accident results in damaged nerves and it was the result of someone else’s negligence, you may be able to seek compensation for the damages you have suffered in an Illinois car accident claim.
Types of Nerve Damage
There are different types of nerve damage that can occur. It is usually a result of the nerves or the tissues that surround the nerves experiencing trauma or compression.
Trauma to the nerves can include a severed nerve. Surgery can be performed, however, there is no guarantee the nerve will be able to repair itself. This is the most serious type of nerve damage to sustain.
Compression to the nerve is generally treatable unless there was also damage to the nerve’s insulation. In most cases, treatment will require repairing a slipped or herniated disc.
Complications of Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can lead to debilitating pain or in severe cases, paralysis. In most circumstances, this type of injury is irreversible and may result in an individual being unable to function on a normal level.
Nerve damage can also lead to these types of complications:
• weakness;
• numbness;
• muscle atrophy;
• difficulty with regulating body temperature; and
• dysfunction of the bladder and/or bowel.
Depending on the extent of damage, nerve damage can diminish a person’s quality of life.
Compensation for Damaged Nerves
The cost to treat damaged nerves can be very expensive. Physical therapy or surgery may be necessary. It can also lead to an individual missing a lot of time from work. Compensation may be available for the medical expenses and lost wages associated with this type of injury.
In addition, there may be other types of compensation available depending on the severity of the nerve damage. An individual may be able to receive compensation for disability or pain and suffering.
If you have suffered nerve damage in a serious accident, you may be eligible to file an Illinois car accident claim. Consulting with a Chicago car crash lawyer is the best way to understand what legal options are available.
