3 Consequences Of Auto Accidents That May Lead To Permanent Disability
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident, the type of injuries or psychological consequences you have sustained may cause permanent disability. While your symptoms may improve over time, certain injuries and mental health disorders have the potential to lead to devastating long-term illness. If you have sustained any of the following as a result of a motor vehicle accident, consider speaking to an auto accident attorney about moving forward with personal injury litigation:
Pelvic Fracture
According to the American Academy Of Orthopaedic Surgeons, pelvic fractures can lead to nerve injury, substantial bleeding and damage to the internal organs. It was also explained that while elderly people who have osteoporosis are at risk for pelvic fractures, most are caused by high-energy impacts, such as forces generated from motor vehicle and crush accidents.
Depending upon the degree of force and direction of the injury, pelvic fractures can lead to life-threatening situations and may require surgical intervention. It is not unusual for pelvic fractures to be associated with injuries to the chest, legs, head and abdomen, and in addition to severe pain, risk for infection, neurological deficits and organ damage, a pelvic fracture may also lead to shock.
Your attorney will work with your physician to review your medical records, which may include your emergency room report, doctor and nurse hospital charting, and physical therapy documentation, to determine the extent of your injuries and the likelihood of long-term disability.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
The Department Of Psychiatry, Penn Behavioral Health, explains that post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is an anxiety disorder that results from being exposed to a traumatic event that often involves assault or combat experiences. It is further explained that PTSD also develop as a result of natural disasters and car accidents. When PTSD occurs after a car accident, not only can the drivers be affected, but also the passengers and any witnesses who saw the accident. Symptoms of PTSD may include:
- Intense fear
- Avoidance of people and places
- Sleep disturbances
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression
- Intrusive memories
While treatments for PTSD are available, they may not be appropriate for all patients, and may lose effectiveness over time. If you have symptoms of PTSD as a result of a car accident that prevent you from working or affect the quality of your life, your attorney may want to pursue legal action against the person who was responsible for the accident.
Your lawyer may also need to see copies of your medical records from any psychologists, psychiatrists, counselors or other mental health professionals you sought help from as a result of your condition.
Whiplash
Many people believe that whiplash injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents are not serious enough to be considered in a legal action suit against the other driver. Whiplash claims are sometimes under-compensated and even overlooked; however, they can lead to severe pain and permanent disability.
The BC Medical Journal, explains, "whiplash is an acceleration-deceleration mechanism of energy transfer to the neck. It may result from rear-end or side-impact motor vehicle collisions, but can also occur during diving or other mishaps."
While rest, cervical collars and pain medications can provide relief, long-term problems such as neurological deficits, limited range-of-motion and severe pain can occur. If you experience whiplash as a result of a car accident, talk to your lawyer about pursuing legal action if traditional methods of pain control have been ineffective in relieving your symptoms.
Call an auto accident attorney if you want to learn more about moving forward with a lawsuit as a result of a motor vehicle accident. If it is determined that your injuries or disabilities are likely to cause long-term or permanent problems, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering and medical bills.
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