Back Infection After an Auto Accident
There are many different hazards which people should be aware of whenever they set foot inside a motor vehicle. A car accident can occur at any time and can lead to lifelong injuries, complications, or even death. Some of the most common reasons why someone is involved in a car accident include speeding, distracted driving, drunk driving, equipment failure, and weather issues. According to some car accident statistics published by Driver Knowledge:
- Around 15 percent of individuals do not wear a seatbelt when they are in a motor vehicle.
- Those who wear a seatbelt are 50 percent less likely to die in a motor vehicle collision.
- Someone who doesn’t wear a seatbelt is 30 times more likely to be ejected from the car in the event of an accident.
There is a multitude of reasons why an individual might suffer injuries in a car accident. Like the collisions themselves, some of these injuries are more serious than others. Injuries of the back are prone to causing permanent complications which might impact someone’s quality of life.
Mechanisms of Back Injuries in Auto Accidents
A back injury in a car accident can occur in different ways. Some of the most common mechanisms include:
- An abrupt change in the direction of the neck which can stretch the ligaments of the back, leading to pain.
- A ruptured disc (also called a herniated disc) which leads to shooting pains down the arms and legs.
- Acute, point tenderness over the vertebrae could indicate a vertebral fracture.
- Penetrating injuries from glass and metal which could damage the spine.
Because the back is home to the spinal cord, all back injuries need to be taken seriously. While some back injuries might be simple muscle strains, other back injuries could indicate damage to the spinal cord. Some of these complications can be severe.
Serious Complications: Back Infections
One of the complications of back injuries, particularly those that break the surface of the skin, involves an infection. The skin is the first barrier against infection and, if this barrier is broken, bacteria and viruses can make their way into the back. This can lead to serious infections including:
- Meningitis
- Osteomyelitis
- Discitis
All of these infections have the potential to damage the spinal cord. To prevent this from happening, people need to see a doctor immediately. Then, tests can be run to diagnose the source of the infection. Finally, infections can be treated with appropriate medications, if applicable.
Chronic Complications Can Result from Back Infections
Unfortunately, people who develop infections of the back are prone to suffering serious complications. If the infections break through the barrier that protects the spinal cord, the bacteria and viruses can damage the nerves. This can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness, and motor dysfunction. In some cases, this damage is temporary and in others, it can be permanent. Because of this, it is essential for everyone to understand the serious nature of these complications. Seeking medical care as quickly as possible is important.
Watch YouTube Video: Back Pain After a Car Accident Case Study by Dr. Tony Mork. In this video, Dr. Mork explains how a car accident can cause back pain and injuries.
Contacting an Injury Lawyer
It is understandable for families to be frustrated and confused if a loved one has developed severe injuries in a car accident. If a loved one is in a hospital, it is normal to ask for help. In these situations, it is a good idea to meet with an auto accident lawyer in Sacramento. An injury lawyer can:
- Assist families to look through accident records to ensure that details have not been overlooked.
- Ensure that the fault has been appropriately assigned in a motor vehicle collision.
- Help families pursue damages that are related to the injuries suffered in a car accident.
Do not be nervous about asking for help in the event of an auto accident, particularly one with serious injuries. Take a few minutes to meet with a car accident lawyer in Sacramento. You and your family could be deserving of a financial reward.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, a car accident injury lawyer in Sacramento. An infection of the back after a serious injury can lead to major complications. Call me for free, friendly advice if you have been hurt in a motor vehicle collision. I can be reached at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400.
I am a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum.
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Back Infection After an Auto Accident: Autoaccident.com
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