Herniated disc injuries often occur in car accidents, but they are rarely diagnosed in the emergency room because they do not show up on x-rays. A disc can push out into the spinal canal and press against spinal nerves. When this happens it can produce severe neck, arm, back, leg, and / or foot pain. If you have had a car accident and are experiencing sharp pain in your neck, arm, back, leg, or foot, you should see a doctor immediately.
The spinal discs are liquid-filled, donut-shaped cushions. If too much pressure is put on a disc, it can rupture and lose fluid. When the disc loses too much of the fluid, it loses its cushioning capabilities and the spine is compressed at that point. If the disc is irritated and damaged, it can swell and push out into the canal and damage the nerve.
After seeing a doctor, you should contact a Minnesota Car Accident Lawyer. A back injury that leads to a herniated disc can be a long-term problem. Lifelong injuries can lead to chronic pain, depression, and ultimately extensive medical bills. Seek legal advice before it is too late. An experienced lawyer will be able to determine how much compensation you should receive to cover not only your current losses but also all of your future medical expenses.
If you suspect you have sustained a herniated disc in a car accident that was not your fault, call TSR Injury Law at 612-362-0000 or contact us online. Our partners have years of experience fighting for compensation for victims. We will fight for you.
In Minnesota, all drivers are required to maintain a minimum level of liability insurance in order to operate a vehicle. Liability coverage is to cover costs if you are responsible for the accident. The minimum amount by law is 30/60. That means the maximum the insurance company will cover will be $30,000 per person with a max of $60,000 per accident / incident.
It is indisputable that cell phones, PDAs, and iPods have led to distracted drivers on the road nationwide. There have been many serious accidents caused by drivers who were driving while texting (DWT):
Punitive damages is defined as monetary compensation awarded to an injured party that is awarded over and above losses. It is intended to punish the wrongdoer for malicious misconduct. Idealistically, punitive damages are awarded with the hopes that it will also deter the defendant from repeating the offense.
An Independent Medical Exam (IME) is not independent nor is it actually a medical exam. It is more of an oral and visual medical review, often times performed in an intimidating fashion. It is scheduled by the no fault insurance company and the doctor is hired by the defense to find any reason for your insurance claim to be reduced or denied.
About half of the states in the United States require Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage. Minnesota is one of those states. UM protects you and covers your losses if you are involved in an accident with a driver that does not have insurance. You make a claim against your insurance.
Many people buy an inadequate amount of liability insurance coverage — not nearly enough to cover the damage done by most collisions. Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UIM) is necessary because of the skyrocketing costs of medical care and the high costs of vehicle repair / replacement. UIM is optional, typically not required by law, but it can be a financial lifesaver.