Georgia reports thousands of car accidents every year, unfortunately leading to many spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord impingement and thecal sac compression are among the many types of spine injuries that can be caused by an accident, but they present an added challenge.
Because these two injuries are often caused by degenerative conditions like arthritis or regular wear and tear over five or six decades, it can be difficult to manage an accident case involving these injuries.
What is Spinal Cord Impingement?
Spinal cord impingement, commonly referred to as spinal cord compression, occurs when pressure is placed on the spine. When this occurs, you may notice the following symptoms:
- Numbness
- Burning pain
- Inability to control bowel or bladder
- Stiffness in the neck, upper back, or lower back
- Difficulty walking
The location of the spinal cord impingement and the severity of the compression will determine the symptoms. For example, cervical myelopathy, which is cervical cord impingement, causes loss of balance, trouble with fine motor skills, and a stiff neck.
Most often, spinal cord impingement is caused by regular wear and tear over time or arthritis. However, a spinal injury can also cause the spinal cord to compress suddenly.
Thecal Sac Compression
Thecal sac compression occurs when the thecal sac, also called a dural sac, and the nerves within it are compressed. What is the thecal sac? It is a part of the body contained in the spinal canal with the spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid, and nerve roots. When it is compressed or indented, symptoms like back pain, tingling, weakness, and paralysis can occur.
Your Georgia Accident Case for Spinal Cord Impingement
What steps should you take following an accident that causes spinal injury? After you receive medical attention, start thinking about gathering evidence to prove the at-fault party is responsible. Georgia uses a fault-based system in car accident cases, so the person who caused the accident is liable for your injuries.
You may be able to negotiate a fair settlement with their insurance company, but that is often more complicated than it seems. What if the other driver doesn’t have car insurance? Georgia requires insurance providers to offer uninsured motorist coverage, but you are not required to have that type of coverage. If you reject the uninsured motorist coverage in writing, then you are not required to carry it. However, in situations where an at-fault driver is violating Georgia law by not having at least liability insurance, it would be helpful to have uninsured motorist coverage.
Getting Started with Your Spinal Cord Impingement Claim
Spinal cord injuries have the potential to increase in severity and cause life-altering complications. Taking action as soon as possible by seeking medical attention and filing an accident claim is the best way to be proactive about your health. Flanagan Law offers free consultations, allowing accident victims to discuss their cases and decide what is best for them. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.