Herniated Disc Injuries From Long Island Car Accidents
Herniated discs from car accidents on Long Island are common as the impact of a crash puts enormous stress on the spine. Herniated discs occur when stress on the spine causes one or more of the discs that cushion the vertebrae to slip out of place and press on the spinal nerves.
Treatment Options
In most cases, no invasive treatments are necessary to alleviate the symptoms of a herniated disc. However, that does not mean it happens quickly or without racking up extensive medical bills.
Most car accident victims diagnosed with a herniated disc begin with over-the-counter pain medication, but if this does not help the pain, the doctor may recommend more powerful prescription drugs. These drugs provide very effective pain relief but cost exponentially more. They may include:
- Narcotic painkillers
- Prescriptions to target nerve pain
- Muscle relaxers
Some people also require inflammation-suppressing corticosteroids injected into the area to help relieve the swelling that presses against the spinal nerves.
You may also need to attend expensive physical therapy sessions to treat a herniated disc. Therapists walk patients through a variety of positions and exercises used to minimize pain and rehabilitate the area.
If therapy and prescription drug treatment are not effective in eliminating the pain and limited range of motion, the doctor may recommend surgery.
Potential Damages
Medical costs are not the only damages caused by a herniated disc. These injuries often become a chronic condition, leading to chronic pain. This pain and other symptoms limit the victim’s ability to work. In some cases, they must find a new line of work, if they can return to work at all.
Debilitating injuries from a car accident also cause other expenses you might not even consider, such as paying someone to mow your lawn because you cannot. Herniated discs do a lot of noneconomic damage as well. A herniated disc can prevent you from enjoying hobbies and other activities, limit family activities with your children, and even negatively affect your intimate relationships.
Filing a Lawsuit
Under New York’s no-fault car insurance system, your auto insurance policy covers your medical bills and lost wages up to the limits of the policy. With a herniated disc or other back injuries, however, you could reach the limits of your policy quickly.
If your costs go beyond the limits of your policy and you meet the threshold of suffering a “serious” injury, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver. We can advise you on whether or not you qualify.
How A Lawyer Can Help
A car accident lawyer from Goldstein & Bashner on Long Island can advise you on your best options for paying medical bills, covering lost wages, and getting compensation for other losses. We can help you recover a payout from the insurer or file a lawsuit to ensure you get the financial support you need and deserve.
