Spinal injuries can result from a variety of accidents and incidents. One of the most common causes is motor vehicle crashes. The sudden impact of a collision can damage vertebrae, discs, and spinal nerves. Rollover crashes often impart violent sideways forces that frequently lead to spinal fractures or dislocations. Falls are another top cause, whether it’s falling off a ladder, down stairs, or from other heights. The abrupt impact with the ground can overload the spine past its breaking point.
Sports injuries are also a major contributor to spinal trauma, especially in activities like football, hockey, wrestling, and gymnastics where the body gets forcefully knocked around. Heavy lifting or twisting with improper form is another source of spinal disc herniations. Violent assaults, gunshot wounds, stabbings, or other traumatic blows can fracture or dislocate vertebrae. Degenerative disc disease can also weaken the spine over time, making it more susceptible to stress fractures and pinched nerves. Osteoporosis, tumors, and spinal infections likewise increase vulnerability. The complex anatomy of the spine means it can be damaged in many ways through traumatic external force or internal disease processes.
The Physical, Emotional, and Financial Consequences of a Spinal Injury
Suffering a spinal injury in an accident can be devastating. Not only can it cause severe physical pain and disability, but the financial costs of medical treatment and lost income can be enormous. If your spinal injury was caused by the negligence or wrongdoing of another party, you may have grounds to file a personal injury lawsuit and seek compensation. However, winning these types of cases relies heavily on strong evidence.
Here’s an overview of the vital evidence you need to collect to build a compelling case for your spinal injury claim.
Police Reports
One of the first pieces of evidence you need is the official police report documenting the accident. The officers who respond to the scene will carry out an investigation, take statements from witnesses, and note important details that could determine fault or liability. Be sure to obtain a copy of the police report as soon as possible, as this provides an objective account of what transpired. If the report fails to contain key facts, ask the officers to amend it.
Medical Records
Your medical records form the backbone of documenting the extent of your spinal injury and treatment needs. Work closely with your doctors and healthcare providers to obtain copies of all relevant medical records, including emergency response, ambulance transportation, diagnosis reports, surgical notes, imaging scans, therapy plans, and prognosis reports. Thorough medical records help validate and quantify your injuries, pain and suffering, treatment costs, and impact on your overall health and mobility.
Photographic Evidence
Illustrating the scene of the accident and your injuries through photos and videos can provide powerful visual support for your claim. Take clear pictures documenting the damage to any vehicles, obstructions or hazards at the accident site, unsafe property conditions, etc. Capture images of your injuries at various stages of treatment and healing. Photos help convey the real-life implications of the accident to insurance adjusters and jurors.
Account Statements
Retain all financial statements related to the costs of your spinal treatment and recovery. Keep detailed records of medical bills, receipts for prescriptions, physical therapy expenses, medical equipment purchases, insurance claim paperwork, and any other accident-related costs. Also, track loss of income from missed work. These records help accurately calculate the monetary damages you’ve incurred.
Witness Statements
First-hand witness accounts of the accident are tremendously helpful. Ask any eyewitnesses to write down details of what they saw and have them sign their statement. Witness corroboration lends credibility to your version of events. If anyone helped you at the accident scene, took photos/videos, or has pertinent information, get their contact details to secure their testimony.
Preserving key evidence requires diligence and quick action in the aftermath of a spinal injury accident. Consult with your attorney to determine what evidence is needed. The more thorough the evidence you collect, the stronger your chances of obtaining maximum compensation for your spinal injury claim. With the proper documentation, you can successfully establish negligence and pursue the financial recovery you deserve.
If you have suffered from a spinal injury and you want compensation, speak to one of our personal injury lawyers. You can visit our offices at:
- 2005 West Main St. Tupelo, MS 38801
- 406 Galleria Dr., Suite 7 Oxford, MS 38655
- 1671 Lelia Dr., Suite B, Jackson, MS 39216
- 5100 Poplar Ave., Suite 2700 Memphis, TN 38137
Call us today for a free consultation on (888) 484-1476.
