Advantages of Hiring a Back Injury Attorney

The Rising Concern of Automobile Accidents and Back Injuries

With the increasing number of vehicles on the road, automobile accidents have become a significant concern. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were approximately 6.7 million police-reported motor vehicle crashes in the United States in 2019 alone. These accidents often result in various injuries, with back injuries being among the most common and severe.

Understanding Back Injuries

Back injuries can range from minor sprains to severe spinal cord damage. The spine, upper back, and lower back are susceptible to injuries that can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and even permanent paralysis. The severity of these injuries often necessitates extensive medical treatment, which can be financially draining.

Types of Back Injuries

1. Minor Injuries: These include sprains, strains, and minor tissue damage. While they may heal over time, they can still cause significant discomfort and temporary disability.
2. Moderate Injuries: These involve more severe muscle or ligament damage, often requiring physical therapy and extended recovery periods.
3. Severe Injuries: These include spinal cord injuries, herniated discs, and fractures. Such injuries can lead to long-term disability, paralysis, or even death.

The Role of a Back Injury Attorney

A back injury attorney specializes in personal injury law and can provide invaluable assistance in several ways:

Securing Medical Expense Compensation

The cost of treating back injuries can be exorbitant. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), the average annual medical expenses for a person with a severe spinal cord injury can range from $347,484 to $1,064,716 in the first year alone. A back injury attorney can help you claim compensation for these medical expenses, ensuring you receive the necessary treatment without financial strain.

Compensation for Lost Wages

Back injuries can render you unable to work for extended periods. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the median number of days away from work due to back injuries is 12 days. However, severe injuries can result in much longer absences. An attorney can help you claim compensation for lost wages, ensuring you are financially supported during your recovery.

Long-Term Disability and Permanent Damage

In cases where back injuries result in permanent disability, such as paralysis, the financial implications can be overwhelming. The NSCISC estimates that the lifetime costs for a person with high tetraplegia (a severe form of paralysis) can exceed $5 million. A back injury attorney can help you secure compensation for long-term care, rehabilitation, and other associated costs.

Factors Influencing Compensation

The compensation you can claim depends on several factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on your ability to work, and the extent of medical expenses. An experienced back injury attorney will assess your case and determine the appropriate compensation to seek.

Severity of Injury

• Minor Injuries: Compensation may cover medical expenses and a short period of lost wages.
• Moderate Injuries: Compensation may include extended medical treatment, physical therapy, and longer periods of lost wages.
• Severe Injuries: Compensation may cover long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant loss of income.

Impact on Work

• Temporary Disability: Compensation for the period you are unable to work.
• Permanent Disability: Compensation for long-term loss of income and potential career changes.

Medical Expenses

• Immediate Treatment: Costs for emergency care, surgeries, and initial recovery.
• Ongoing Care: Costs for physical therapy, medications, and follow-up treatments.

Conclusion

Hiring a back injury attorney can significantly ease the financial and emotional burden of dealing with a back injury from an automobile accident. By securing the compensation you deserve, an attorney ensures you can focus on your recovery without worrying about financial strain. If you or a loved one has suffered a back injury in a car accident, consider consulting a back injury attorney to explore your legal options.

For more information on the impact of automobile accidents and back injuries, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.

Sources:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC)
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)