If you’ve suffered a car accident and now feel more pain in your back or neck, you might ask, “Can a car accident make degenerative disc disease worse?” The answer is yes: a car accident can definitely make degenerative disc disease worse. Degenerative disc disease, a condition typically characterized by chronic back pain due to the wearing down of spinal discs, can be significantly impacted by the trauma of a car accident. The force exerted during an accident, even a minor one, can aggravate the spine, leading to increased pain, discomfort, and potentially new spinal issues.
At Kalikhman & Rayz, LLC, we take on spinal injury claims, particularly when pre-existing conditions like degenerative disc disease are involved. Our experienced team understands the medical aspects like MRI diagnosis and the legal considerations. We provide our clients with comprehensive and empathetic legal guidance, ensuring they receive the recognition and compensation they deserve for their aggravated conditions.
The Impact of Car Accidents on Degenerative Disc Disease
When involved in a car accident, the spine can undergo significant stress, particularly in cases of whiplash or direct impact. This stress can exacerbate existing weaknesses in the spinal structure, such as those caused by degenerative disc disease. The aggravation can lead to more severe symptoms, including heightened chronic back pain, reduced mobility, and increased susceptibility to future spinal problems.
How Do Spinal Injury Claims Work?
The challenge in spinal injury claims lies in linking the medical evidence directly to the accident, especially when an individual has a history of back problems. It requires the expertise of medical professionals who can interpret the MRI results and other medical records to provide a clear, concise, and medically sound explanation of how the accident contributed to the worsening of the condition.
The legal aspect of these claims involves presenting this medical evidence effectively and understanding and navigating the laws and regulations that govern personal injury and insurance claims. This includes understanding the two-year statute of limitations, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, litigating in court to ensure fair compensation.
In cases where insurance companies challenge the claim, arguing that the symptoms are due to pre-existing conditions and not the accident, the detailed and expert interpretation of MRI results becomes even more crucial. The legal team must work closely with medical experts to build a case that clearly delineates the accident’s impact on the existing condition.
The Role of MRI Diagnosis
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is often pivotal in diagnosing the impact of a car accident on degenerative disc disease. This diagnostic method can reveal detailed images of the spine, showing changes or damages that may have been caused or worsened by the accident. An MRI can be a key piece of evidence in proving that the car accident had a direct effect on the worsening of degenerative disc disease.
Chronic Back Pain and Legal Claims
Chronic back pain resulting from an aggravated degenerative disc disease due to a car accident is not only a health concern but also a legal one. It can impact an individual’s ability to work, enjoy life, and perform daily activities. In legal claims, demonstrating the direct correlation between the accident and the intensification of chronic back pain often requires expert medical testimony and a detailed examination of medical records.
Whiplash and Degenerative Disc Disease
Whiplash is a common injury in car accidents, characterized by the rapid forward and backward movement of the neck. This motion can strain the neck and back, potentially worsening conditions like degenerative disc disease. In cases where whiplash plays a role in exacerbating a spinal condition, seek medical attention immediately.
Navigating Insurance and Compensation
Dealing with insurance companies in cases where a pre-existing condition is involved can be challenging. Insurers may argue that the symptoms are solely related to the pre-existing condition and not the result of the car accident. Therefore, it’s important to have a legal team that can effectively negotiate with insurance companies and ensure that your rights are protected.
Kalikhman & Rayz, LLC: Award-Winning Car Accident Attorneys Serving All of Pennsylvania
The days and weeks following a car accident that aggravates a condition like degenerative disc disease can be overwhelming and painful. At Kalikhman & Rayz, LLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take. Our dedicated team is committed to providing personalized and effective legal representation to ensure your case is handled with the care and attention it deserves.
We are experienced in spinal injury claims and are prepared to advocate tirelessly on your behalf. Our goal is to secure the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one is dealing with aggravated degenerative disc disease due to a car accident, don’t hesitate to contact our experienced Philadelphia car accident lawyer. We’re here to support you through this challenging time and help you on the path to recovery and compensation. Contact us online or call us today.
