A car crash can be a life-altering event, leaving victims with not only immediate injuries but also chronic pain that persists long after the accident.
In this blog, our auto accident lawyers in Lafayette discuss the types of crash injuries associated with chronic pain and treatment options. We also explain the type of evidence needed to prove injuries were caused by a crash and the compensation you can seek for chronic pain.
If you or your loved one is suffering from chronic pain after a car accident, do not hesitate to call us. We can help determine if you have a case during a free case review. If we can take on your case, we will not charge you for any costs or fees unless we win your case, either through negotiation or in the courtroom.
How Can Car Crash Victims Endure Chronic Pain from a Car Crash?
Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting more than three months. Chronic pain can have a negative effect on one’s daily life and emotional well-being, including their ability to get a good night’s sleep, go to work or spend time with family.
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What Type of Auto Accident Injuries Are Often Associated with Chronic Pain?
There are numerous types of injuries that could cause chronic pain. These are some of the chronic pain injuries commonly associated with vehicle collisions:
Whiplash
This is caused by the forceful back-and-forth movement of the neck during a crash. Some victims may experience neck, shoulder and upper back pain that lasts for several weeks or months.
You might think serious pain is less likely if the collision happens at a relatively slower speed. However, even at slow speeds, your head and neck can get violently thrown forward and cause a significant injury.
Physical Trauma
Some victims may experience blunt force trauma or penetrating trauma. Blunt force trauma happens when an object strikes the body while penetrating trauma pierces through the skin, creating an open wound.
Inflammation
The body responds to injury by causing inflammation. Chronic inflammation can cause continuous pain and discomfort.
Nerve Damage
Blunt force trauma or severe soft-tissue damage could also affect nerves. For instance, a blow to the back could cause pressure on surrounding nerves, resulting in significant pain. Crash injuries could cause nerves to become hypersensitive, causing persistent discomfort.
Psychological Factors
Anxiety, emotional distress and post-traumatic stress can intensify the perception of pain. These psychological factors can heighten the body’s response to pain signals, prolong recovery and exacerbate overall discomfort.
Treatment Options to Help with Pain Management
Managing chronic pain often requires a combination of treatments. Some effective pain management options may include:
- Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription medications and topical treatments can help manage pain.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can develop a personalized exercise program to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
- Chiropractic Care: Chiropractors can perform adjustments to alleviate pain and improve spinal alignment.
- Acupuncture: This involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to relieve pain.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections or nerve blocks can provide temporary pain relief.
- Psychological Counseling: Attending therapy sessions with a counselor or therapist can help manage the emotional aspects of pain.
- Relaxation Techniques: Meditation, deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can help reduce muscle tension and stress.
Your treatment plan will vary based on the type of injury suffered and its severity. While each injury is different, victims should seek treatment quickly and follow through with it. Quick and persistent treatment may speed up your recovery and give you a better chance at returning to your state of health before the accident.
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Type of Evidence Needed to Prove My Injuries Were Caused by a Crash
To receive compensation for your injuries, you need to prove that your chronic pain was caused by the car crash. The following types of evidence can help support your claim:
Medical Records
Detailed medical records documenting your injuries and treatments are crucial. These records track your recovery, detailing treatments and supporting claims for future medical needs.
Accident Reports
Police reports and eyewitness statements can help establish the circumstances of the crash. An eyewitness can help confirm the sequence of the crash along with the other evidence.
If you see any witnesses after the crash, try to get their contact information, so your lawyer can contact them in the future when building your case.
Photographs
Photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and damage to your vehicle can provide visual evidence. This type of evidence could help you prove the severity of the crash. It could be useful when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court.
Expert Testimony
Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, can support your claim more. They provide a testimony based on their expertise and experience. One of the benefits of hiring a law firm like Galloway Jefcoat is that we know how to determine the right experts for your claim.
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What Type of Compensation Can I Seek for Chronic Pain?
If you are suffering from chronic pain due to a car crash, you may be eligible for various forms of compensation such as the following:
- Medical Expenses: This includes costs for hospital visits, surgeries, medications, physical therapy and other treatments.
- Lost Wages: If your chronic pain prevents you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by your chronic pain.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If chronic pain affects your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed, you may be compensated for it.
- Future Medical Costs: Ongoing medical care for chronic pain may be covered, including anticipated expenses.
Call Galloway Jefcoat for Legal Assistance Following a Collision
At Galloway Jefcoat, we are dedicated to helping car crash victims in Lafayette, Louisiana, navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. We understand the challenges you face and are here to provide legal support.
If you are struggling with chronic pain after a car crash, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Contact Galloway Jefcoat today to learn more about how we can help you throughout the legal process.
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