Nerve Damage Car Accident Claims

Experiencing a car accident can be a traumatic and life-altering event. Among the array of potential injuries, nerve damage can be particularly devastating, leading to chronic pain, impaired mobility, and a decreased quality of life. For those living with the aftermath of nerve damage post-accident, our hearts go out to you. We understand how challenging and overwhelming these circumstances can be.

Fortunately, if you suffered nerve damage as a result of another party’s negligence, there may be legal avenues available to you. Compensation for nerve damage received in a car accident claim can help cover medical expenses and lost wages and also account for emotional distress and reduced quality of life. Everyone deserves justice, especially when their lives have been upturned through no fault of their own.

Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. Fights For You

At Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C., we fight fiercely for your rights, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. With our deep expertise in nerve damage claims, we navigate the legal system, investigating your case and building a strong claim to prove negligence. We understand the burden of nerve damage injury can cause and provide compassionate representation, supporting you every step of the way. Reach out for a free consultation to discuss your case, and let us fight for justice.

The Nerves in the Human Body

The human body contains an intricate network of nerves, each playing a unique role in transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. They can be broadly categorized into three types: Autonomic, motor, and sensory nerves.

Autonomic nerves regulate the activities that your body performs unconsciously, such as heart rate, digestion, and temperature regulation.

Motor nerves control your muscles and actions by passing information from the brain and spinal cord to your muscles, enabling you to move and perform physical activities.

Sensory nerves relay information from your skin and muscles back to your spinal cord and brain, where the information is processed to produce sensations such as pain and pleasure.

If these nerves get damaged in a car accident, it can have profound implications on an individual’s health and quality of life.

What is Nerve Damage?

Nerve damage, also known as neuropathy, is a broad term that refers to a variety of conditions that occur when nerves in the body are damaged or injured. This damage can disrupt the normal functioning of these nerves, leading to a range of symptoms based on the type and location of the nerves affected. Symptoms can include:

• Numbness or tingling sensation
• Muscle weakness or paralysis
• Pain or burning sensation
• Sensitivity to touch
• Loss of coordination
• Muscle atrophy
• Changes in skin, hair, or nail growth
• Digestive issues
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

In severe cases, nerve damage can cause paralysis and even organ dysfunction. Nerve damage can be a result of numerous causes, including illnesses, physical trauma like car accidents, and even certain medications. The treatment and prognosis of nerve damage largely depend on the cause, the specific nerves involved, and the extent of the damage.

How Can Car Accidents Cause Nerve Damage?

Car accidents can result in nerve injuries in a variety of ways, depending on the severity and nature of the collision. Here are some common scenarios in which nerve damage can occur:

Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents where the sudden forward and backward motion of the head and neck can stretch or tear nerves.

Trauma to the Spinal Cord: The impact from a car accident can cause fractures or dislocations in the spine that may damage the spinal cord and the nerves within it.

Lacerations: Sharp objects during an accident can cut or damage the peripheral nerves.

Crush Injuries: These occur when a part of the body, such as an arm or leg, is trapped and compressed during a crash, causing damage to nerves.

Seat Belt Injuries: While seat belts are life-saving, in a high-impact collision, they can cause nerve damage due to the concentrated force on the body at the point of contact.

Herniated Disc: This condition occurs when a disc in the spine becomes damaged or displaced and puts pressure on nearby nerves, causing pain and other symptoms.

Airbag Injuries: The force of an airbag can cause burns and injuries to nerves, especially in the facial area.

Nerve Stretching: During the accident, nerves can be stretched beyond their limit, causing damage.

Blunt Force Trauma: This can occur when a part of the body hits a part of the car during the crash, causing damage to the nerves.

Each of these scenarios can cause varying degrees of nerve damage, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe and debilitating pain or loss of function. It’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a car accident to diagnose and begin treatment for any potential nerve damage.

How Can You Diagnose a Nerve Injury?

Diagnosing a nerve injury typically involves a thorough physical examination and various tests to identify the type and extent of the nerve damage. In the case of car accidents, three types of nerve injuries are commonly observed:

Neurapraxia: This is characterized by the compression and interruption of the blood supply to nerves, often resulting from a pinched nerve or whiplash. The disruption in nerve function is typically temporary, with a full recovery usually taking place within about 6 to 8 weeks.

Axonotmesis: This involves a more severe injury where nerves are crushed, typically resulting from an impact that is more violent than one causing neurapraxia. The damage could be permanent, causing partial or full paralysis, although a full recovery might still be possible in some cases.

Neurotmesis: This is the most serious nerve condition, characterized by severe crushing or laceration of the nerves. In such cases, a patient may regain partial feeling and mobility of the affected area, but full recovery is nearly always impossible.

Each of these conditions requires a different treatment approach, underlining the importance of a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis. Therefore, if you suspect you sustained car accident nerve damage, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.

What is the Treatment For Nerve Damage Injuries?

Treatment for nerve damage injuries often involves a multi-pronged approach, depending on the severity and type of nerve injury. Here are some common treatment methods:

Medication: Pain relievers, anti-seizure drugs, topical creams, and antidepressants can help manage symptoms of nerve damage. In some cases, injections for pain relief might be used.

Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can improve muscle strength, prevent joint stiffness, and help regain motor function and balance.

Occupational Therapy: This helps individuals regain the day-to-day skills necessary for their personal and professional lives.

Surgery: In cases of severe nerve damage, surgery might be required to repair the damaged nerves or to alleviate the conditions causing nerve compression.

Assistive Devices: Braces, orthopedic shoes, or other devices can improve mobility and reduce pain.

Counseling: Psychological therapy can help individuals cope with chronic pain and the changes in lifestyle that result from nerve damage.

Remember, the best treatment strategy will depend on your specific situation and should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

Can You Claim Compensation For Nerve Damage In a Car Accident?

Yes, you can claim compensation for nerve damage in a car accident. If you’ve suffered nerve damage as a result of a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

This can include:

• payments for medical expenses
• loss of earnings
• therapy and rehabilitation costs
• pain and suffering

It’s crucial to document all your expenses and medical treatments related to the nerve injury, as these will form the basis of your compensation claim. Consulting with a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury claims can be beneficial in navigating the legal complexities surrounding car accident injury claims. Our expert legal team can help you understand your rights, gather necessary evidence, and advocate for you to get the compensation you deserve. Remember, every case is unique, so the amount of compensation you may receive depends on the specifics of your situation.

Contact Us Today For a Free Consultation.

If you or a loved one has suffered nerve damage from a car accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Our experienced legal team can help evaluate your case and determine the best course of action to get the compensation you deserve. Don’t suffer in silence – let Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel P.C. fight for your rights and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. Contact us now to schedule your free consultation.