Spinal cord injuries are easily among the most severe in auto accidents, and the compensation for long-term impact is typically very high for those with significant insurance coverage. The primary problem that many California accident victims face with spinal cord injuries is the relatively low minimum liability insurance requirement in the state, which means that injuries are usually only covered to the designated state minimum in a standard two-car accident. However, spinal cord injuries can generate financial compensation amounts that easily exceed the state liability minimum.
Upper back and neck injuries
Many spinal cord injuries occurring in auto accidents are in the upper back and neck area, also known as the thoracic spinal region. Difficulties in motion all along the spine can be a result in specific injuries. Movement of the arms can be particularly affected as well, including use of the fingers. The neck area is even more important because injuries can affect total body mobility. Total paralysis can be the eventual result with serious injuries in the neck and upper spine.
Lower spinal cord injuries
Injuries to the lower lumbar section of the spine are actually more common than upper back injuries in car accidents, and they can be just as debilitating. This happens for a variety of reasons, but front seat passengers are often jammed in the legs in an accident that can cause damage to the lower spine region of the body. The most severe cases include paralysis in the legs, but it’s more common to have broken bones or cartilage along the spine as the result.
Regardless of the location of spinal cord injuries, the long-term impact they can have on a person’s life following an auto accident means that whole damages could be available. An experienced auto accident attorney may be able to craft a comprehensive maximum value case. While spinal cord injuries are typically life-altering events, there may be only one opportunity for financial justice. It is important to make that opportunity count so that victims receive adequate compensation.
