Types of Back Injuries that Occur in Houston Car Accidents

Back and spinal injuries are among the most serious types of injuries a person can sustain. In a car, truck, motorcycle, or other traffic collision, the sudden, sharp movements and often high-speed impacts make back and spine traumas all too common. And the results of these injuries can be catastrophic. Worse yet, is when the accident could have been avoided with responsible driving practices.

Back injuries and their effects

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, your back injury may range in severity.

The most serious back injuries could have lifelong debilitating effects—but even seemingly minor trauma could leave you with considerable medical costs, in significant pain, out of commission, and/or unable to work for a period of time.

Consider the following common types of back injuries and the effects you might suffer in a Houston car accident:

• Spinal fractures – Severe pain and limited mobility, endangering the spinal cord and requiring complex orthopedic intervention
• Herniated discs –  Chronic localized pain and swelling that is permanent
• Spinal cord injuries – Partial or full paralysis (paraplegia, quadriplegia, etc.), loss of feeling, or unpleasant sensations such as throbbing or tingling that may heal, may be repaired with surgical intervention or may be incurable, depending on the severity
• Back sprains and strains – Generally less serious acute injuries that are still temporarily debilitating, causing long or short-term pain or immobility, and often requiring medical attention or special equipment/devices like a wheelchair or customized brace

Preventing back and spinal injuries in Houston

Car accidents are widely acknowledged as one of the leading causes of spine and back injuries. Of course, not all traffic accidents can be prevented, even by the most responsible drivers. But by taking the following safety measures, you can minimize your own risk—and the risk to those you love—of suffering a serious back injury or spinal trauma in the event of a collision:

• Wear a seatbelt at all times
• Properly secure young children into car seats when appropriate
• Avoid allowing children under age 12 to ride in the front seat
• Follow all traffic laws and posted speed limits
• Never drive while intoxicated by alcohol or by another controlled substance
• Refuse to ride as a passenger of a driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol/do not let them behind the wheel

Consult a Houston car accident injury attorney for help

Houston car accident attorney, Ryan A. DeHoyos offers unparalleled support to seriously injured victims of automobile accidents. To learn more about our legal services, call (832) 745-4878 or contact us online today and schedule a free consultation.