Could Back Pain After an Accident Mean a Serious Injury?

 Posted on August 28, 2018 in Catastrophic Injuries

In 2016, a 43-year-old man Gilbert Wood III filed a lawsuit for more than $25,000 against the estate of former Tommy Reuter, the driver of a pickup truck that crashed into Wood's tractor-trailer. Woods suffered serious injuries to his neck, vertebrae, tailbone, both wrists, and the connective tissue surrounding his spine, including the tendons, muscles and nerves. According to a news article from The Athens Messenger, Reuter drove the pickup truck down Route 33 directly into the path of the tractor-trailer that Woods was driving. After the impact, both vehicles became immersed in flames. According to the lawsuit, Woods was operating the tractor-trailer lawfully by driving in the proper lane and within the speed limit, but alleges that Reuter was negligent.

Serious Back Injuries can Happen Anywhere

Serious back injuries can result from car accidents, activity at work, or from a slip and fall at a place of business such as your local supermarket or post office. The lower back is the most common site of back injuries and back pain. Common back injuries include:

• Strains and Sprains,
• Herniated or Bulging Discs, and
• Fractured Vertebrae

How Much can I be Compensated for My Injury?

Back injuries are the most common reasons for missed work. Possible long-term effects of an untreated back injury include paralysis of the lower back, chronic pain, prolonged suffering and discomfort, and loss or impairment of movement. Many times, what is initially considered a minor accident can result in damage to the muscle, bone, the spinal cord, or the discs between the vertebrae.

Back injury settlements can range from several thousand dollars to millions of dollars. If you have suffered back injury that you strongly believe was caused by the actions or negligence of another person, you may be able to speak to an Illinois personal injury lawyer to seek compensation for your injuries.

Finding a Personal Injury Lawyer in Illinois

Finding the right lawyer to handle your personal injury case can be uncomfortable for many people. If you or a loved one have sustained serious back injuries and were involved in a motor vehicle accident, a slip and fall, or any work-related accident, consult with an experienced Illinois personal injury lawyer to learn about compensation you may deserve.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we help people who sustain serious injuries due to another person's actions or negligence. If you are experiencing serious injuries caused by another person, contact us at 847-797-8000 for a complimentary evaluation of your case. We serve clients in the Chicago, Arlington Heights, Palatine, Rolling Meadows, Libertyville, Mundelein, Buffalo Grove, Schaumburg, Elk Grove, and Itasca areas.

(image courtesy of Harlie Raethel)