Nerve Damage in Car Accidents
Nerve damage is one of the most common and serious injuries that can result from a car accident. The impact of a collision can cause significant trauma to the body, leading to a range of nerve injuries. While some forms of nerve damage may heal over time, others can lead to chronic pain, loss of function, and long-term disability.
What Causes Nerve Damage in a Car Accident?
Nerve damage occurs when the delicate nerves that send signals between the brain, spinal cord, and other body parts are injured. Car accidents can cause nerve damage in several ways:
- Blunt Trauma: The forceful impact of a collision can crush or compress nerves, particularly in areas such as the neck, back, and limbs.
- Whiplash: A common injury in car accidents, whiplash happens when the head is suddenly thrown backward and then forward. This violent motion can stretch and damage neck and upper spine nerves.
- Fractures and Dislocations: Broken bones or dislocated joints can pinch or sever nearby nerves, especially in the spine or extremities.
- Herniated Discs: A car accident can cause a disc in the spine to slip out of place or rupture, pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness.
- Lacerations and Cuts: Severe cuts or puncture wounds from glass or debris can sever nerves, leading to loss of sensation or function in the affected area.
Types of Nerve Damage
Three primary types of nerve damage can occur as a result of a car accident:
- Neuropraxia (Mild Nerve Injury): This is the least severe type of nerve injury, where the nerve is stretched or compressed but not torn. Neuropraxia often heals on its own within weeks or months.
- Axonotmesis (Moderate Nerve Injury): In this type of injury, the internal structure of the nerve is damaged, but the outer covering remains intact. Axonotmesis may require medical intervention, and recovery can take several months.
- Neurotmesis (Severe Nerve Injury): This is the most severe form of nerve damage, where the nerve is completely torn or severed. Neurotmesis may require surgical repair; even then, full recovery may not be possible.
Symptoms of Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can present a variety of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or Tingling: A pins-and-needles sensation or complete loss of sensation in the affected area.
- Burning Pain: Many people with nerve damage experience a sharp, burning pain that may radiate from the injury site.
- Weakness or Paralysis: Damaged nerves can lead to muscle weakness or even paralysis in severe cases.
- Sensitivity to Touch: Some individuals become overly sensitive to touch, experiencing pain from even the lightest contact.
- Muscle Atrophy: Prolonged nerve damage can lead to muscle wasting and reduced strength over time.
Long-Term Effects of Nerve Damage
While some nerve injuries heal fully, others can lead to long-term complications. Chronic pain, loss of mobility, and decreased quality of life are potential outcomes of severe nerve damage. In some cases, damaged nerves may never fully recover, leading to permanent disability. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving the chances of recovery and preventing long-term damage.
Preventing Nerve Damage After a Car Accident
While it’s impossible to completely prevent nerve damage in a car accident, taking precautions can reduce the risk:
- Wear a Seatbelt: Seatbelts reduce the risk of serious injury, including nerve damage, by keeping your body securely in place during a crash.
- Adjust Your Headrest: A properly adjusted headrest can prevent whiplash by limiting the backward movement of your head during an impact.
- Maintain Good Posture: Sitting upright with your back against the seat and your head close to the headrest can reduce the risk of neck and back injuries.
Your Recovery Starts With the Right Legal Support
Nerve damage from a car accident can lead to life-altering pain, numbness, and even loss of mobility. Don’t let an injury limit your future. Contact Meinhart & Manning today for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue the compensation necessary for medical treatments and recovery. Fill out our online form or call us at (877) 776-1219 to discuss your case with an experienced attorney.