Can a Car Accident Cause a Compression Fracture?

Yes, a car accident can cause a compression fracture. Compression fractures often occur in the spine due to the sudden, forceful impact experienced during a collision. A Phoenix car accident lawyer can help recover the costs of treating a fracture.

Let’s explore the relationship between car accidents and compression fractures, their symptoms, treatment options, and what to do if you’ve suffered this injury due to someone else’s negligence.

What Is a Compression Fracture?

A compression fracture is a type of break in the vertebrae, the bones that make up your spine. In this injury, the vertebra collapses, often in the front part of the bone, while the back part remains intact. This can turn the disc-shaped vertebrae into a wedge shape.

This misalignment in the spine can cause intense pain and distortion in the nerves that run through the vertebrae. It is a serious injury that needs immediate medical attention. It may require an extended hospital stay or surgery to heal.

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How do Car Accidents Lead to Compression Fractures?

Car accidents can cause compression fractures in several ways:

• Sudden Impact: The force of a collision can compress your spine, potentially fracturing vertebrae.
• Seatbelt Pressure: While seatbelts save lives, their pressure during crashes can sometimes contribute to compression fractures.
• Airbag Deployment: The rapid inflation of an airbag can sometimes cause the upper body to bend forcefully, risking spinal compression.

What Are the Symptoms of a Compression Fracture?

Recognizing the symptoms of a compression fracture can let you know you need to see a doctor as soon as possible. Common signs include:

• Back pain: Often sudden and severe, especially when standing or walking.
• Height loss: You may notice you’ve become shorter.
• Difficulty bending or twisting: The spine may feel stiff and inflexible.
• Numbness or tingling: If the fracture affects nerves, you might experience these sensations.
• Difficulty breathing: Severe fractures can impact lung capacity.

How Are Compression Fractures Diagnosed?

If you suspect a compression fracture after a car accident, tell your doctor. They can diagnose your compression fracture through a physical examination. They will check for pain, tenderness, and range of motion.

If they believe you may have a compression fracture, imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can confirm the fracture and its severity. You can get compensation for the costs of these tests in your insurance claim or lawsuit.

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What Should You Do If You’ve Suffered a Compression Fracture in a Car Accident?

If you’ve been in a car accident and suspect a compression fracture, your first task is seeking immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment will help you heal faster and prevent worse damage.

Follow all of your doctor’s instructions and document your visits. Keep records of medical visits, treatments, and how the injury affects your daily life. You can use this information and the help of a personal injury lawyer to prove you have a case.

Insurance companies may pressure you to settle quickly, but the full extent of your injury may take time to be apparent. Don’t accept a settlement offer until you’ve consulted a personal injury attorney.

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What Are the Treatment Options for Compression Fractures?

Treatment for compression fractures varies based on severity. If it’s a mild fracture, you may need to take medication to handle the pain and wear a back brace to keep your spine aligned while the bone heals. You may also need to undergo physical therapy to rebuild the muscles around the break.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Some possible surgical options for compression fractures after a car accident include:

• Vertebroplasty: Injection of bone cement into the fractured vertebra
• Kyphoplasty: Similar to vertebroplasty, but involves creating space in the vertebra first
• Spinal fusion: Joining two or more vertebrae to stabilize the spine

Are Some People More at Risk for Compression Fractures in Car Accidents?

While anyone can suffer a compression fracture in a car accident, certain factors can increase the risk:

• Age: Older adults with weaker bones are more susceptible
• Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones, making fractures more likely
• Previous spinal injuries: A weakened spine is more vulnerable to new injuries

Note that these conditions should not affect your compensation. It is the other driver’s negligence that harmed you, not the condition of your body. The insurer may try to deny coverage due to pre-existing conditions, so get a personal injury lawyer to counter the claims.

What Compensation Can You Seek for a Compression Fracture?

If your compression fracture resulted from someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses: Both current and future costs related to your injury
• Lost wages: Compensation for time off work due to your injury
• Pain and suffering: For the physical and emotional distress caused by the injury
• Loss of quality of life: If your injury has significantly impacted your daily activities

Conclusion

Compression fractures can happen after a car accident. They are difficult to treat and incredibly painful. Some victims require surgery. Treating these fractures costs a lot, but you could get compensation through a personal injury claim.

Contact Zanes Law today for a free, no-obligation consultation about your accident. We’ll help you fight for the compensation you deserve for a spinal compression fracture.

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