The spine is a complex network of discs, bones, and nerves. It plays an integral role in our mobility and ability to function in everyday life. A spinal cord injury can be debilitating on a number of levels. It can be painful. It can restrict movement. It can completely alter your ability to perform the activities of daily life. Unfortunately, there are a number of common accidents that often lead to spinal cord injuries. Let’s take a look at these accident types here.
Common Accidents that Lead to Spinal Cord Injuries
Slip, trip, and falls can often lead to spinal cord injuries. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that millions of people receive emergency room treatment every year for fall-related injuries. While the risk of a fall may increase with age, none of us are immune from this type of accident or the resulting injuries that can be sustained. Even the most seemingly small and innocuous trip can result in serious injury to the spine depending on things such as body positioning and the nature of the trip. Slip and falls happen for a number of reasons including:
- Loose doormats, rugs, and flooring
- Slippery or wet surfaces
- Unstable ladders or stools
In many instances, especially falls from heights, the lower back ends up absorbing the brunt of the impact. This, in turn, can lead to a spinal cord injury. These injuries can be severe depending on the impact of the fall. If you have any preexisting spinal cord conditions, this can also make the injury much worse.
Motor vehicle accidents are another common culprit for spinal cord injuries. Sudden impact and pressure placed on the body can have a number of adverse consequences, spinal cord injuries included. In some motor vehicle accidents, a vehicle occupant may also experience a bend or twist to the spine leading to further damage to the spinal cord and the surrounding nerves and muscles.
Accidents in sports and recreational activities also commonly lead to spinal cord injuries. While many contact sports, such as football, are cited for spinal cord injuries other no-contact sports can also lead to accidents that cause spinal cord injury. The spine can be at particular risk of injury in sports that are highly active. This can include everything from diving to skiing, to gymnastics. The fact is that spinal cord damage is common in sports-related accidents.
Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorneys
Regardless of the accident type, if you have injured your spinal cord in an accident caused by the negligence of someone else, then you can pursue compensation from the at fault party to cover your losses. You can count on the trusted personal injury team at Cooper, Schall & Levy to fight for your legal right to recover full and fair compensation for the harm you have suffered. Contact us today.
