4 Most Common Neck Injuries in Car Wrecks – Facts from a Tyler Accident Attorney

Your vehicle’s seatbelts are its most important safety features. They can prevent injuries in minor crashes and save lives in serious collisions.

Unfortunately, high-speed accidents are still likely to cause injuries – even to those who buckle up. The neck is particularly vulnerable. Many victims face overwhelming debt due to medical bills, time off work and other losses.

If you or a loved one was the victim of a negligent driver, contact the Cooper Law Firm. Attorney N. Eric Cooper is a personal-injury lawyer in Tyler who can represent your interests. He can talk to witnesses, gather evidence and fight for the maximum compensation.

Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation. You can also visit USAttorneys.com to learn more about accident claims in Texas.

Here is a brief overview of four common neck injuries in car wrecks:

1. Pinched Nerves

The medical term for pinched neck nerves is “cervical radiculopathy.” Nerves in the cervical region play important roles in movement and sensation in the arm and hand.

When a victim suffers a pinched neck nerve, he or she may notice pain, lack of movement, weakness and numbness. Auto accidents can also cause bone fractures and herniated discs, which can lead to cervical radiculopathy.

2. Neck Sprains

Neck sprains are particularly in car wrecks. The fibrous tissues and ligaments in the neck are prone to stretching and tearing – especially in high-speed collisions that throw the head forward.

Unless the tissue or ligament snaps, these injuries rarely cause permanent damage. However, victims often suffer debilitating pain.

3. Herniated Discs

The discs located between the cervical vertebrae can herniate in a wreck. If this happens, the soft tissue in the center will leak onto the surrounding area.

This leakage may press against the nerves and disrupt function. Ruptured discs can cause weakness, numbness and pain in the limbs.

4. Whiplash

Whiplash, or neck strain, occurs when the neck muscles stretch or tear. According to Mayo Clinic, a powerful head rotation or back and forth movement can cause whiplash, which is common in car accidents.

Whiplash often causes immense pain. It may take weeks or months to heal.

Which symptoms require medical attention?

It is important that you do not move someone who has symptoms of a broken neck or back injury. Common signs include numbness and an inability to control body functions.

Most neck injuries are not life-threatening, and they usually heal over time. You should visit a doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms:

• Chronic neck pain;
• Headaches;
• Arm, hand or shoulder pain;
• Decreased range of neck motion;
• Slow reactions;
• Or neck spasms.

If you were injured by a negligent or reckless driver in Texas, contact the Cooper Law Firm. N. Eric Cooper is a Tyler accident attorney who can protect your interests and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. He is a member of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and the Gregg County Bar Association. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a consultation.