Delayed Back Pain After A Car Accident

Back pain can sometimes manifest immediately after a car accident, but it can also take time to develop. You may experience back pain 3 weeks later or months after a crash. Back pain could also appear within a few days. The onset varies from person to person, and it often depends on the severity of the impact, the nature of the crash, and your overall health.

What is delayed lower back pain?

Delayed lower back pain after a car accident typically affects the lumbar region. This type of back pain can significantly reduce your mobility and result in chronic discomfort. Some people who suffer from crash-related lower back pain also experience impaired sleep and mental and emotional impact.

Delayed back pain after a collision often includes:

• Whiplash: While whiplash typically affects the neck, pain and discomfort could radiate to the back.
• Soft tissue injury: This type of pain arises from injuries to the muscles or ligaments in the back. It can manifest as a dull, aching pain, often accompanied by muscle spasms.
• Spinal cord injury: This is trauma to the spinal cord, resulting in a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation, below the site of the injury.
• Herniated or bulging discs: The impact of an accident can cause spinal discs to herniate or bulge. This condition can cause sharp, shooting pain that often radiates down the legs.
• Facet joint pain: Facet joints in the spine can be injured or become inflamed due to a car accident. This typically results in tenderness or sharp pain in the lower, middle, or upper back.

It’s typically best practice to see a doctor as soon as possible after a car accident to identify and treat hidden injuries before they worsen. However, if you notice any unusual aches and pains, you should get prompt medical attention. Delayed back pain after a car accident can get worse if left untreated.

When you see a doctor, they’ll identify the cause of your back pain, provide an official diagnosis, and begin treating your condition. Getting medical attention can also create a link between the car accident

How is crash-related back pain treated?

The appropriate treatment for back pain will likely depend on the cause and severity of the injury. It typically includes: 

• Rest and activity modification. 
• Over-the-counter or prescription medication for pain and/or inflammation.
• Heat and cold therapy. 
• Physical therapy and exercise. 
• Chiropractic care.
• Acupuncture or massage.
• Ergonomic or workplace modifications. 
• Surgery in cases where back pain is caused by a herniated disc or other structural problem.

You can claim compensation for delayed back pain after a car accident, especially if the crash wasn’t your fault. Your claim should include all expenses related to your back injury such as medical bills, receipts, and lost wages. It should also include non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, trauma, emotional anguish, and reduced quality of life. 

Consider consulting with an attorney who knows how to calculate damages for crash-related back pain and fight for fair compensation.

How do I file a back injury claim after a collision?

To file a back injury claim, you’ll need to first report the car accident to your insurance company. Provide only basic facts describing where, when, and how the crash occurred. Avoid admitting or discussing fault.

Next, you should speak to an experienced car accident lawyer who can file your claim on your behalf. In most states, you must do this within two or three years. In other states, you have up to six years and as little as one year.

However, it’s best to act as soon as possible. The sooner you speak to an attorney, the easier it will be for them to investigate your crash, gather fresh evidence, and speak to witnesses.

How much is compensation for back pain after a car accident?

Compensation for delayed back pain after a car accident can vary. It depends on the extent of your injury, your recovery time, and the impact the injury has on your life.

Additionally, your state’s laws for determining negligence will affect your compensation. Many states use the comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover damages, even if you’re partially at fault.

In states with the pure comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages, even if you’re 99% at fault. In states with the modified comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages, as long as your percentage of fault doesn’t exceed 50% or 51%.

When it comes to delayed back pain after a car accident, providing adequate proof is critical to your claim. Insurance companies may try to argue that your back pain is exaggerated or pre-existing. That’s why you need a strong legal advocate on your side who can help you build a strong case.

Plus, insurance companies may offer a quick lowball settlement to close out the case. While a quick settlement may sound appealing, accepting it means you won’t be able to seek additional compensation if needed. That’s why you should count on a Law.com Premier Attorney to fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Hiring a Premier Attorney won’t cost you anything upfront. Our verified lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis and only get paid if they win your case. When you’re ready to file your claim, contact a lawyer near you and schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation.