What Is the Average Settlement for Back and Neck Pain After a Car Accident?

There is no way to determine an average settlement based on a Louisiana crash that caused a victim to suffer back and neck injuries. Many factors can increase or decrease the value of an insurance claim based on a collision, so no two cases are alike enough to compare their outcomes.

An attorney with our personal injury law firm can determine your case’s value and pursue your claim. We will calculate a fair settlement range and use this to negotiate with the insurance company representing the at-fault motorist.

Back and Neck Pain May Indicate a Serious Injury

Back and neck injuries may be serious and debilitating, so getting prompt medical evaluation and treatment is often essential to recovery. Fractures in the back and neck can cause paralysis and other impairments if not addressed as soon as possible.

When a collision causes a vertebra to become displaced, compression and nerve damage can occur – this is diagnosed as spondylolisthesis. Sprains, disc herniation, and other injuries to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues are also possible.

Whiplash Is a Common Neck and Back Injury in Crashes

Whiplash is, perhaps, the most widely known collision injury that causes neck and back pain. It occurs due to the head being “whipped” back and forth because of the forces of the crash. This causes the muscles, ligaments, and tendons to move beyond their normal range of motion. Pain and inflammation commonly result.

Treatment for Back and Neck Pain After a Louisiana Car Accident

When you see a doctor after a crash and report back and neck pain, they will likely ask you questions about the collision and your pain. They will record other symptoms and may order medical imaging, including:

• X-rays to check your vertebra
• A computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to rule out other issues

Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may require:

• Spinal stabilization
• Other spinal surgery
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Corticosteroids
• Immobilization

Whiplash generally requires only conservative treatment, and the soft tissues heal on their own with time. However, physical therapy is sometimes necessary.

Long-Term Outcomes of Back and Neck Injuries Vary Widely

The outcome of a neck or back injury depends greatly on type and severity, as well as the effectiveness of the treatment. Some people could suffer quadriplegia while others make a full recovery.

Even whiplash, usually thought to be relatively minor, can leave victims with chronic, debilitating pain. Some people require ongoing pain management and may even have to limit their activities or change jobs because of their injuries.

Seeking Financial Recovery for Your Accident Damages

Louisiana law allows you to seek compensation for the expenses and losses endured as a result of your crash. This requires filing an insurance claim based on the other driver’s liability policy or suing them in civil court.

The damages you may be able to recover include:

• Current and future medical treatment and care needs
• Lost wages and diminished ability to work
• Car repairs and other property damages
• Additional expenses
• Pain and suffering

To get a just settlement, you will need to present documentation of these damages and demand a payout within that range of values. If the insurer refuses to negotiate, a lawsuit may be necessary.

An Attorney Can Protect Your Rights and Seek Compensation in Your Case

Our car accident lawyer can play a crucial role in fighting for a fair and just settlement for you in your crash claim. We know the kind of evidence necessary to prove:

• Fault and what happened to cause the collision
• Who is liable for your injuries and losses
• The documented value of your expenses and losses

When we represent you, our team will investigate the crash, file the claim, and demand a payout from the insurer that compensates you appropriately. We will also handle all communications about the case, including all contact with the insurance carriers. This helps us protect your right to a fair payout.

Louisiana’s Statute of Limitations is Generally Two Years

As part of our services, we will also ensure you meet all deadlines related to the case. If you need to sue the driver who caused your crash, you only have up to two years to do so in most Louisiana crashes. This is true for both personal injuries (CC Art. 3492) and wrongful deaths (CC Art. 2315.2). You could have less time if the driver worked for a municipality, parish government, or another government agency.

Let the Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers Team Review Your Case for Free

You can talk to a team member from Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers about your options for seeking and recovering compensation today. We can evaluate the strength of your case based on your neck and back injuries, what caused the collision, and more. We may be able to recover a payout for you with no upfront cost to you or your family.

Call our main number in Lafayette to get started today: (337) 777-7777. We also serve Alexandria, Marksville, New Orleans, and the surrounding parishes.