Car accidents regularly lead to nerve damage, though this is a type of injury most people don’t talk about or consider when working to recover compensation for their overall losses. Vehicle accidents can lead to a range of types of trauma, all of which can cause nerve damage. Here, we not only want to review the signs and symptoms of nerve damage, but we also want to examine how this type of injury can affect car accident victims and whether or not they can recover compensation for this type of injury.
What is Nerve Damage and How Does it Occur in a Car Accident?
Nerve damage, also known as neuropathy, happens when nerves become injured or impaired, often preventing normal signal transmission between the brain and the rest of the body. In car accidents, this damage can happen due to direct trauma, inflammation, or pressure on the nerves caused by impact. Even seemingly mild accidents can lead to nerve damage when parts of the body are jolted suddenly or compressed.
Some common causes of nerve damage after a car accident include:
- Whiplash. This is one of the most frequent car accident injuries. When the head snaps forward and backward quickly and suddenly, the neck and upper spine are forced out of their normal range, causing strain, inflammation, or pinching of the nerves around the neck.
- Herniated Discs. The spinal column is cushioned by soft discs that sit between the vertebrae, absorbing shocks to the body. In a car accident, these discs can slip or rupture, placing pressure on nearby nerves. This type of injury often leads to chronic pain and can cause numbness and weakness.
- Pinched Nerves. Car accident trauma can compress nerves in multiple areas, including the neck, shoulders, and back, leading to nerve entrapment or pinched nerves.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Car Collision Nerve Damage
Recognizing nerve damage symptoms is critical for anyone who has been in a recent accident, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly affect recovery. Nerve damage symptoms may vary, but they often include:
- Numbness and tingling. Often felt in the hands, arms, feet, or legs, tingling can range from mild to severe, affecting the ability to perform everyday tasks.
- Muscle weakness. When nerves are damaged, muscles may weaken, causing difficulty lifting or carrying items or a sensation of instability.
- Sharp, shooting pain. Nerve damage often causes severe, stabbing pain in the arms, legs, or back that can interfere with work and daily routines.
- Electric shock sensation. Some people report feeling small electric jolts or buzzing in the affected areas, which can disrupt sleep and make it difficult to find relief.
These symptoms are not always constant; some people experience episodes of relief before symptoms return. However, for others, nerve damage symptoms are persistent and can worsen over time.
How Nerve Damage Affects Daily Life and Long-Term Health
Nerve damage from a car accident can have far-reaching effects beyond pain and discomfort. Those with nerve damage may struggle with mobility, coordination, and the strength to perform simple tasks. Activities that were once effortless, such as holding a cup of coffee or typing on a keyboard, may suddenly become challenging. Over time, untreated nerve damage can lead to permanent disability, psychological distress, and an overall decrease in quality of life.
Beyond physical symptoms, nerve damage can lead to mental and emotional stress. Many accident victims report feeling overwhelmed and anxious about their future. Without adequate support and treatment, these challenges can make it difficult for individuals to maintain their independence and confidence.
How an Attorney Can Help with Your Car Accident Nerve Damage Case
Navigating a car accident claim involving nerve damage can be complex. Insurance companies may downplay the severity of nerve injuries, and medical evidence can be difficult to interpret without professional assistance. A Phoenix attorney experienced in car accident and nerve damage claims can help by:
- Collecting comprehensive medical records and expert opinions to demonstrate the full impact of the nerve damage on your life.
- Negotiating fair compensation with insurance providers who may initially offer less than what is needed to cover your ongoing medical needs.
- Representing you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Working with a skilled attorney ensures that you have an advocate who understands the unique challenges associated with nerve damage claims, increasing your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered nerve damage due to a car accident, know that you do not have to face this journey alone. Our experienced Phoenix personal injury team is here to support you and fight for the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.