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Spinal cord injuries are among the most frequent and serious injuries sustained by individuals involved in accidents . Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of these injuries , with cervical spine damage being especially common in car accidents.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is any damage that occurs to the spinal cord. The spinal cord extends from the lower back up to the top of the neck and is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body .
Spinal cord injuries in car accidents often result from sudden, forceful movements or direct trauma to the back or neck. When a vehicle comes to a rapid stop or is struck by another car, the body can be violently jolted forward, backward, or sideways. This motion can compress, twist, or fracture the vertebrae, damaging the spinal cord inside. In severe crashes, the impact of a seatbelt, airbag deployment, or being crushed against the seat or door can also contribute to spinal injuries. The neck, or cervical spine, is particularly vulnerable due to its range of motion and exposure during a collision.
Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury
The injuries and symptoms from a spinal cord injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the damage. Common signs include numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty walking, trouble breathing, and pain or pressure in the head, neck, or spine. In more serious cases, spinal cord injuries can also result in partial or complete paralysis . Immediate medical attention is essential following a car accident if there is any suspected injury to the spinal cord to avoid any further damage or injury to an individual .
Contact us:
If you have been involved in a motor vehicle accident and have suffered a spinal cord injury, it is important to understand your rights. At the Michael Brady Lynch Firm, we understand how serious and overwhelming these injuries can be, and we are here to help you. Contact us at 888-585-5970 today.
Date: August 3, 2025
Attorney and Editor-in-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editor: Madison Hurley
Citations:
https://law.usnews.com/law-firms/advice/articles/common-car-accident-injuries-overview
https://bsitf.georgia.gov/media-room/facts-about-spinal-cord-injury
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/spinal-cord-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20377890
https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/spinal-cord-injury