Many car crashes lead to very serious injuries. One that is possible is a spinal cord injury. This type of injury can lead to serious long-term changes. Some people who have this type of injury end up paralyzed, which may mean they’re unable to work or live life in the manner in which they’re accustomed.
A person who has back pain, an inability to move, or other symptoms of a spinal cord injury should get medical care. It’s sometimes possible to counteract some of the damage with prompt care. Understanding a few points about these injuries is imperative for individuals who have damage to the spinal cord.
Location of the injury matters
Spinal cord injuries affect the area of the body below the level of the damage. This means that injuries that are higher on the spinal cord will affect a larger area of the body. An upper neck injury can lead to paralysis of both arms and legs, as well as the trunk.
Complete versus incomplete injuries
All spinal cord injuries are classified as either complete or incomplete. A complete injury means that there’s not any feeling or movement below the injury. These injuries are less likely to recover fully than an incomplete injury. An incomplete injury is one that has some movement or feeling below the injury.
Anyone who’s involved in a car crash and suffers a spinal cord injury should ensure they get immediate care to help minimize the damage to the cord. Seeking compensation to help offset the costs of this care and other financial damages is important when the injury is due to another person’s negligence. There are time limits in place in Missouri law that apply to these cases.
