People who are involved in car crashes often suffer from significant injuries, one of which is a spinal cord injury. This type of injury may be a life-long challenge for the victim, so it’s critical that they understand what types of challenges they may be facing.
There are several factors that determine what type of effects a person may have if they suffer a spinal cord injury.
Location of the injury
The location of the injury determines what areas of the body will be impacted by the injury. The effects are always below the level of the injury, so the ones that are higher on the spine will have more global impacts. Those that are lower will affect a smaller part of the body. This means that a neck injury can affect the arms, trunk and legs. An injury to the lower back wouldn’t affect the arms, may affect the part of the trunk below the injury, and could affect the legs.
Extent of nerve damage
If nerves at the site of the injury are fully severed, the injury is complete. If the nerves are only partially severed, the injury is incomplete. Because of the nerve pathways that remain at least partially connected, incomplete injuries will typically have a better recovery and return to previous function than complete injuries.
Victims of spinal cord injuries often face considerable life changes after the injury. When the injury was caused due to the negligence or recklessness of another driver, the victim may opt to pursue a compensation claim. This must be done within the time limits set by law, so it may be best to work with someone familiar with these matters.