Back Injuries

What should I do if I have a Back Injury and it’s someone’s fault?

If you’ve sustained a back injury due to someone else’s negligence, you have a right to seek compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. As a personal injury attorney, here are the steps I recommend you take:

  1. Get Immediate Medical Attention: If you haven’t already, seek medical help immediately after the incident. The adrenaline rush following an injury can sometimes mask the pain, making it seem less severe than it is. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose and treat your injury.
  2. Document Everything: Maintain all medical records, including the initial diagnosis, treatment plan, prescription medications, physiotherapy, and any other medical procedures. Keep a record of all medical expenses.
  3. Notify Relevant Parties: If your back injury occurred at work, notify your employer. If it was a car accident, report to the police and your insurance company. Always make sure there’s a formal record of the incident.
  4. Gather Evidence: Gather and secure any available evidence of the incident and its aftermath. This might include photos of where the injury occurred, witness testimonies, surveillance video footage, and other relevant documents.
  5. Don’t Admit Fault: Avoid discussing the accident in detail or admitting fault, particularly on social media or to insurance adjusters, until you’ve spoken with an attorney.
  6. Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: Reach out to an experienced personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests, maximizing your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.

Remember, it’s important to act promptly. Kentucky, like most states, has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, which limits the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit after an injury. An attorney can help you navigate these deadlines and ensure your claim is handled in a timely manner.

While these guidelines can be helpful, they may not cover all situations. Always consult with a legal professional for advice tailored to your unique circumstances.

What are the most common back injuries that result from negligence?

Back injuries can occur in a wide range of scenarios where negligence is involved, including car accidents, workplace incidents, slips and falls, and medical malpractice. Some of the most common back injuries include:

  1. Sprains and Strains: These injuries can occur when the muscles or ligaments in the back are stretched or torn, often as a result of lifting heavy objects, sudden or awkward movements, or a direct impact to the back.
  2. Herniated Discs: The spine is made up of a series of bones called vertebrae, with discs between them to provide cushioning. If a disc is damaged and bulges or ruptures, it can put pressure on the spinal nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness.
  3. Spinal Cord Injuries: These are among the most serious types of back injuries and can result from severe trauma, such as a car crash or a fall. Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or total paralysis.
  4. Compression Fractures: These occur when a vertebra cracks or collapses, often as a result of trauma. Compression fractures can lead to severe pain and a decrease in physical ability.
  5. Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when a vertebra shifts out of place and onto the bone below it, which can compress spinal nerves and cause pain.
  6. Whiplash: Although often associated with neck injuries, whiplash can also cause significant harm to the upper back. It is most common in rear-end car accidents and results from the rapid back-and-forth movement of the neck and spine.

These injuries can occur due to negligence in a variety of ways, such as when another driver causes a car accident, when an employer fails to provide a safe work environment, or when a property owner neglects to maintain their premises adequately. If you have sustained a back injury and believe someone else’s negligence is to blame, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.


Frequently Asked Questions About Neck & Back Injuries


What are the Most Common Causes of Neck & Back Injuries?

In Kentucky the most common cause of neck and back injury is a car crash.  … Read more

How do I know if my back pain is serious?

Your back injury is serious if results in pain that will not go away.  Having … Read more

What are the most common types of back injuries?

The most common injuries caused by car crashes are soft tissue, disc bulge, disc protrusion, … Read more

Can I sue for herniated disc and bulging disc from a motor vehicle accident?

You can sue for a herniated disc and bulging disc from a motor vehicle accident. … Read more

What type of back problems qualify for a personal injury lawsuit?

In Kentucky a personal injury lawsuit usually involves the following types of back injuries: soft … Read more