In the moment a car accident occurs, the occupants of the vehicle could be left with devastating physical injuries and emotional trauma. In cases where the accident causes particularly severe injuries, such as damage to the spine, a North Carolina victim could suffer for the rest of his or her life. Spinal cord injuries are common types of accident injuries, and they can have catastrophic permanent consequences.
The impact of injuries to the spine
Spinal cord injuries can be temporary or permanent, with the more severe injuries causing potentially long-term damage. Spinal cord injuries can cause loss of movement in the extremities of the body, or possibly complete paralysis from the neck down. Not every injury to this part of the body results in paralysis, however. Some other effects of these injuries include:
- Loss of bladder control or bowel function
- Difficulty breathing
- Altered sensations in different parts of the body
- Exaggerated reflexes
- Pain in different parts of the body
The true impact of a spinal cord injury is not always immediately apparent. It may take weeks or months to truly understand how an injury will affect a car accident victim.
Holding responsible parties accountable
If another driver caused the accident that left a North Carolina motorist with severe or debilitating injuries, that individual does not have to suffer alone. Through the civil justice system, a victim can seek compensation through a civil claim. While this cannot reverse the effects of a spinal cord injury, it can ensure that he or she has what is necessary for ongoing support.