An injury to the neck or back may have harmful effects on your body and can limit your ability to complete daily tasks. Properly recovering from these injuries often requires medical treatments like physical therapy, prescription medication, and even surgery. Medical care can be a significant and long-term expense. If you sustained injuries as a result of someone else’s negligence, a car accident attorney may be able to help you pursue compensation.
A car accident settlement is a legal agreement made between two or more individuals in which one or more parties are required to pay an agreed-upon amount for injuries the other acquired in the motor vehicle accident. A settlement can assist with medical fees and other financial costs associated with the damages incurred as a result of the other driver’s negligence.
What Determines the Settlement Amount for Your Neck & Back Injuries?
When it comes to car crash settlements for neck and back injuries, each case will vary depending on the accident and the severity of the inflicted damage. For example, if an accident makes it difficult for you to stand for a long time and you’re now unable to complete your job, you can include medical fees and lost wages in determining the settlement amount.
Below are a few factors to consider when determining a fair settlement amount:
Evaluating the Type of Injuries
After an accident occurs, it’s crucial that you see a doctor for your injuries. Sometimes, neck and back injuries don’t show their severity until after the accident, and if left untreated, can turn into long-term disabilities. The severity of an injury is a significant factor in the amount of compensation you may receive due to the medical treatment required.
Gathering Evidence and Medical Bills
Medical reports and documentation of your injuries are vital legal evidence that present an unbiased professional account of your damages. In addition to providing medical records, photos and videos showing your injuries after the accident can be helpful documentation as well. Keep any medical bills and insurance statements related to the accident as these will be important when pursuing a fair settlement.
Receiving Help from an Experienced Lawyer
For those unfamiliar with the legal processes and terminologies related to car accident settlements, the process can be complicated and overwhelming. A car accident attorney will guide you through the procedures and assist with gathering evidence for your claim. An experienced lawyer will uphold your intentions and advocate for your rights.
Considering all these factors for your car accident claim can give you a better understanding of the amount of compensation you may receive. After discussing these factors with your car accident settlement lawyer, they can help you determine a fair compensation amount for your damages.
Common Symptoms of Neck & Back Injuries from Car Accidents in California
Almost everyone will experience a car accident in their life. When the injuries sustained are severe and impact your life, medical and legal assistance might be necessary. Whether you can see or feel the injuries, receiving medical care from either an emergency provider or primary care physician is essential. Sometimes, injuries don’t surface until after the accident and may produce dangerous or serious consequences to your health if not actively treated.
Here are a few common symptoms from neck and back injuries after motor vehicle accidents:
- Headaches and dizziness
- Fatigue
- Pain and stiffness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Burning sensation in the shoulder or neck
- Short-term memory loss
- Difficulty sleeping
The symptoms that you may suffer from neck and back injuries may have lasting effects on you and the lives of your loved ones. The physical therapy and other medical care you might need to recover from the accident may start to become expensive. Fortunately, with the help of a personal injury lawyer, you may be able to discuss settlement options that will assist with your financial losses.
Receive Guidance from an Experienced California Car Accident Lawyer
With years of combined experience and a passion for providing clients with legal guidance, our team of car accident attorneys at Setareh Law are ready to advocate for your rights. The aftermath of a car accident is difficult and frustrating, but we will stand beside you every step of the way.
For more information on car accident settlements and to talk with one of our attorneys, call (310) 659-1826 or fill out our online contact form.