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Back Injuries from Road Traffic Accidents: What Are Your Rights?
Back Injuries from Road Traffic Accidents: What Are Your Rights?
Road traffic accidents (RTAs) can cause a range of back injuries, from whiplash to severe spinal cord damage. If another driver’s negligence led to the accident, you may be entitled to claim compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the injury. Here’s a guide to understanding your rights and the steps to take.
Four Types of Injuries Linked to Collisions
Whiplash
- Whiplash occurs when the neck and upper back are forcibly jolted due to a sudden impact, such as during a rear-end collision.
- Symptoms: Neck stiffness, upper back pain, headaches, and reduced mobility.
Herniated Discs
- Also known as prolapsed or slipped discs, this injury involves the cushioning discs between the vertebrae rupturing, pressing on nerves and causing intense pain or numbness.
- Common in high-impact collisions.
Spinal Cord Injuries
- Severe accidents may damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or full paralysis. This type of injury often requires long-term care.
Soft Tissue Strains
- Muscle or ligament injuries, such as strains or sprains, are common even in minor crashes.
Gather Evidence for Your Claim
Collecting strong evidence is essential to building a solid case for compensation:
- Police Reports: Ensure the accident is reported to the police, as their official report is crucial for establishing fault.
- Photographic Evidence: Take pictures of the accident scene, including vehicle positions, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Dashcam Footage: Use dashcam recordings to establish liability and prove the circumstances of the accident. Devices like helmet cameras for cyclists can also serve this purpose.
- Medical Records: Seek immediate medical attention and keep detailed records of treatments, diagnoses, and ongoing care.
- Witness Statements: Collect contact details of witnesses who can corroborate your account of the incident.
How Compensation is Calculated
Compensation for back injuries considers the following factors:
- Physical Damages: Covers the severity of the injury, such as whiplash or spinal cord damage. Guidelines suggest payouts ranging from £1,950 for minor back injuries to over £100,000 for severe spinal injuries.
- Financial Losses: Includes lost earnings, medical expenses, and rehabilitation costs.
- Emotional Impact: Accounts for psychological effects, including anxiety and reduced quality of life.
Your solicitor will assess all these aspects to ensure a fair settlement is pursued.
Important Information About Personal Injury Claims
- Time Limits: You have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Exceptions may apply for individuals under 18 or those unable to claim due to incapacitation.
- Our Commitment: We help injured individuals and their families access expert care and rehabilitation. Working with experienced solicitors, we are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve.
- No Win No Fee: Our partners offer “No Win No Fee” arrangements, giving you peace of mind. If your claim succeeds, solicitors charge a fee of 25% (including VAT) of the compensation awarded.
If you’ve suffered a back injury in a road traffic accident, contact First Personal Injury today. Our experienced team is ready to help you navigate the claims process and connect you with the right solicitor to support your recovery journey. Call us at 0333 358 2345 or visit our website to start your claim.
For more information, visit First Personal Injury.