Imagine driving your vehicle and suddenly getting rear-ended by another car. The unexpected force of the collision would cause your head to thrust forward whilst the seatbelt would likely restrain your body. This could lead to a severe injury that will undoubtedly hurt your wallet too.
You could be entitled to a neck injury compensation claim if you find yourself in the position.
Who Is Entitled To Claim?
You can make a CTP insurance claim through Queensland’s scheme if you or a family member is injured in a car accident. It must be fully or partially the fault of another car owner or driver, and you must claim against the CTP insurer of the vehicle responsible for the accident. If you were also to blame, your compensation would be reduced accordingly.
Types Of Neck Injuries Sustained In A Car Accident
Lacerations And Abrasions
Lacerations and abrasions are prevalent neck injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents. A laceration is a deep cut from a sharp object, such as glass fragments. An abrasion is a scrape that forms when the top layer of skin comes off.
Sprains And Strains
Sprains and strains are soft tissue damage that occurs when ligaments are stretched or muscles are torn. A neck sprain usually leads to bruising and inflammation surrounding the injury site. In most cases, a neck strain causes muscle spasms.
Muscle Cramps Or Spasms
A muscle spasm is when your muscle involuntarily contracts. They are unpredictable and can be described as an uncomfortable, tight feeling in the neck.
Whiplash
Whiplash occurs when force from an impact thrusts your head forward and then quickly backward, damaging the soft tissue in your neck. It can also cause damage to facet joints and intervertebral discs, resulting in an expensive injury.
Slipped Or Herniated Disc
The force of impact during a car accident can move the discs of your spine out of place, causing a slipped disc.
Pinched Nerve And Paresthesia
Pinched nerves are a usual side effect of collision-related neck injuries. A pinched nerve happens when the structures of the cervical spine move or swell and put pressure on spinal nerves.
Compressed nerves aren’t able to fully process pain signals. This leads to Paresthesia which causes tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain.
Neck Fracture
A neck fracture occurs when a bone in your neck breaks or cracks. A fractured neck can be agonisingly painful and can restrict movement. In a worst-case scenario, a neck fracture can damage your spinal cord, leading to paralysis.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Your spinal cord comprises vital nerves and soft tissue that start at the base of your skull and run down to your lower back. Your vertebrae protect these fragile structures. If vertebrae break or suffer damage or your neck or back is hit forcefully, it could cause a spinal cord injury.
Making A Claim
When you make your claim, attach the following supporting documents:
- Medical certificate
- Claimant certificate
- Identity document
- Law practice certificate
You can acquire the services of a lawyer to walk you through the claim process.
Conclusion
A neck injury could require surgery, physiotherapy, medicine and other medical treatments. Your recovery will not only take time, but it will cost money. If you have been involved in a car accident, contact a lawyer who can advise you on claiming compensation.
