A rear-end collision is a common type of accident. Many of them occur at lower speeds, leading victims to just accept whatever payout they get from an insurance company. Unfortunately, this can leave them high and dry when they realize that their injuries are more serious than initially thought. This is why you may want to consult a car accident lawyer in Queens before you decide to settle.
Can a Low-Speed Rear-End Collision Hurt My Spine?
Even at low speeds, a rear-end collision can damage your spine and leave you with lasting health problems. The most common issue is whiplash. This is caused by your neck and head snapping back and forth during the accident like a whip.
Most people with whiplash suffer from neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. They might also feel fatigued. This symptoms can last a short amount of time, but some people end up with long-term issues due to whiplash.
What Are The Potential Injuries From a Rear-End Collision?
Whiplash is not the only injury you could suffer from after a rear-end collision. Other injuries to the back, spine, and neck are also common. Many accident victims end up with:
Spinal stenosis: A dislocation or fracture of the spine can cause the bone that protects the spinal cord to become more narrow. This can cause nerve damage, neck pain, and weakness, numbness, or tingling in the extremities.
Spinal fractures: These are almost always a serious injury. How serious it is usually depends on how the severe the fracture is and where on the spine it occurs. Chronic pain, muscle spasms, and paralysis are all potential outcomes.
Nerve injuries: Getting rear-ended can also cause nerve injuries. Sciatica, which can manifest as pain in the lower back and numbness or weakness in one side of the lower body, is one common outcome.
Should I Sue for Damages After a Rear-End Collision?
Yes, you should probably sue for damages after a rear-end collision. Medical issues from a crash could affect you for the rest of your life. You should fight for a fair compensation offer that can make up for the costs of the accident and the pain and suffering you have experienced.
How Long to I Have to Take Legal Action?
You also should not rush into any kind of settlement because you do have time to evaluate your options. New York gives people three years to sue after getting into an accident. This means that you have time to talk to medical professionals about your prognosis. You also have time to talk to a personal injury lawyer.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Legal Team
If you have been injured in a rear-end collision, make sure that you have a complete understanding of your injuries and how they will affect you before you settle. You can also call the Law Offices of George Poulos to learn more about what our firm can do for you. Schedule your consultation today.
