Can A Minor Car Accident Cause Back Pain?

Minor car accidents, such as fender benders, can cause back pain in several ways. The most common causes of back pain following a minor accident include:

• Back strain or sprain: An abrupt stop or change in motion during a crash can cause the body to jerk forward or sideways. This puts strain on the back muscles and ligaments.
• Whiplash: Whiplash is a common injury that occurs after a rear-end collision. It happens when the head and neck are suddenly forced forward and then snap back in a rapid, whip-like motion. While whiplash is a neck injury, it’s often associated with back pain as well.
• Herniated disc: This can occur when the discs that cushion the vertebrae in your spine become damaged. The compression can cause the inner disc to bulge out of place, putting pressure on the surrounding nerves.

Back injury symptoms can vary depending on the type, location, and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:

• Back stiffness.
• Muscle spasms.
• Pain in the lower back or neck.
• Radiating pain that spreads to the arms or legs.
• Numbness or tingling in the extremities.
• Difficulty moving or standing up straight.
• Pain that worsens with movement.
• Weakness in the back or lower extremities.

It's crucial to seek a medical evaluation, even for minor car accident back pain. A doctor will utilize various methods to evaluate your back pain and determine the appropriate course of treatment. These evaluation methods may include:

• Physical examinations to assess your range of motion and any signs of inflammation.
• Medical history reviews to identify previous injuries.
• Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans.
• Neurological tests to evaluate nerve function, reflexes, and sensation in the affected areas.
• Assessments to determine the nature, location, and intensity of your pain.

Treatment options for back pain following a minor accident

The treatment options for back pain will depend on the severity of the injury. In some cases, rest and over-the-counter medication may be enough to manage the pain. In more severe cases, you might need physical therapy or even surgery.

Other treatment options for back pain include:

• Chiropractic care
• Heat and cold therapy.
• Massage therapy.
• Acupuncture.
• Steroid injections.

Navigating the complex world of insurance claims can be overwhelming. Insurance companies have trained professionals who aim to settle claims quickly and minimize payouts. Without the help and guidance of an attorney, you may find yourself outmatched. This could jeopardize your case and the compensation you deserve.

A car accident attorney understands the process of recovering damages.  Your lawyer will know how to handle the paperwork and negotiation tactics used by insurance companies.

Plus, a verified attorney can:

• Assess the extent of your damages.
• Gather evidence to support your claim.
• Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
• File a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.

How can I get compensated for my medical expenses?

First, your attorney will need to help you build a strong case by gathering evidence. This typically involves obtaining police reports, medical records, witness testimony, and video footage.

Once your attorney has built a strong case, they will negotiate with the other driver's insurance company to secure a fair settlement.

If your attorney can't reach an agreement with the insurance company, they will litigate on your behalf. This involves presenting your case to a judge and jury and fighting for a fair verdict.

What is the value of my car accident injury claim?

Several factors go into determining the value of your car accident injury claim. These include: 

• The severity of your injuries.
• The impact on your daily life and ability to work.
• The extent of medical expenses.
• Any potential long-term effects.

Your state's rule for determining fault can also affect the value of your claim. For example:

• Comparative negligence allows for the allocation of fault between parties involved in a crash. This system reduces the damages awarded to the injured party based on their percentage of fault. For instance, if you're found to be 20% at fault for a crash, your damages will be reduced by that percentage.
• Modified comparative negligence (a variation of comparative negligence) sets a threshold for recovery. In some jurisdictions, if the injured party is found to be 50% or more at fault, they're barred from recovering any damages. However, if their fault is determined to be less than the threshold, their damages are reduced proportionally.
• Contributory negligence completely bars the injured party from recovering any damages if they have contributed to a crash in any way. This rule applies even if the injured party is only 1% at fault.
   

If you've sustained minor car accident back pain, take action as soon as possible. No matter how minor your injury may seem, you deserve to recover every dollar owed to you in damages. Law.com's verified attorneys would be glad to discuss your legal options during a free consultation.

Can’t afford to hire an attorney? No problem! Our verified lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, so you can rest assured that you won't have to pay anything unless they win your case. Contact an attorney in your area today to get started.