The average settlement for a car accident neck and back injury case can vary depending on the specifics of the case. In Alabama, settlements can range from moderate sums for minor injuries to substantial amounts for more severe injuries. Factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life, medical costs, and lost wages all play a crucial role in determining the settlement amount.
If a car accident caused your neck and back injury, contact Long & Long Injury Attorneys to discuss your case with an experienced lawyer in Alabama. Our team is available any time of day or night to review your case at no cost to you.
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Common Neck and Back Injuries from Car Accidents
There are many different types of neck and back injuries that a car accident can cause. Although they range in severity, they often require significant medical treatment and can leave lasting effects. Some of the most common injuries are whiplash, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and spinal cord damage.
Whiplash
Whiplash is a common neck injury resulting from the sudden back-and-forth motion of the neck, often occurring during rear-end car accidents. This injury affects the soft tissues of the neck, including muscles and ligaments.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
TBI can occur as a result of a significant impact to the head. This can penetrate the skull and cause damage to the brain. Although primarily a head injury, traumatic brain injury can also affect the neck and spine, particularly in severe cases where the brain trauma results from a violent jolt or blow to the body.
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord injuries can be particularly severe, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. Such injuries are often caused by traumatic impacts to the spine during a car accident.
Neck and Back Injury Symptoms
Symptoms of neck and back injuries can include:
- Persistent pain or stiffness in the neck or back
- Limited range of motion
- Headaches, often originating at the base of the skull
- Tingling or numbness in the limbs
- Muscle spasms
Prompt medical attention is crucial to diagnose the extent of the injury and to formulate an effective treatment plan.
Factors that Can Impact Your Car Accident Settlement
Because settlements vary case-by-case, there is no real average settlement for a car accident neck and back injury case in Alabama. However, there are some consistent factors that influence how much compensation you can receive from an auto accident lawsuit.
The Severity of Your Injuries
You may be able to seek more compensation if your injuries are more severe because they typically result in increased medical costs and longer recovery times. In some cases, the victim requires ongoing medical treatment or specific equipment to help them perform daily activities. Severe injuries also leave victims unable to work, which impacts their income and quality of life.
The Type(s) of Damages You Suffered Due to the Accident
Depending on how severe your auto accident injuries are, you could be eligible to receive compensation for these damages:
- Medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages or reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish particularly reckless behavior.
The right attorney will be able to determine the type of damages you can recover with an auto accident lawsuit, which will allow them to estimate a potential settlement amount. Although it is impossible to guarantee a specific car accident settlement amount, your lawyer can value your claim based on their knowledge of the legal system and the results they have achieved for similar cases.
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You Have Limited Time to File an Auto Accident Lawsuit
In Alabama, the statute of limitations for filing an auto accident lawsuit is 2 years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in the loss of your right to seek compensation.
Auto Accident Settlement FAQs
Q: What can I do after an accident to get a bigger settlement?
A: Document as much of the damage as you can, including vehicle damage and bodily injury. Then, seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel hurt. Some neck and back injuries appear over time, and a medical provider should be able to document any underlying injuries that could manifest at a later date. Finally, consult with a lawyer who can guide you through the process of negotiating a settlement.
Q: Should I accept a car accident settlement from the insurance company?
A: The insurance company does not want to pay your car accident settlement. They will do whatever they can to pay you as little as possible. Even if the amount they offer seems generous, you could be entitled to much more. Long & Long Injury Attorneys will ensure you don’t settle for less than you deserve. Our team is skilled at negotiating with insurance companies to obtain a fair settlement.
Q: Can I file a claim if I don’t have car insurance?
A: If you don’t have car insurance, you can still file a claim as long as you were not at fault for the accident that caused your neck and back injuries.
Q: Is my auto accident settlement taxable?
A: Generally, compensatory damages for physical injuries are not taxable under federal or state law. However, punitive damages and any interest on the settlement may be taxed.
Q: What are the typical car accident settlement amounts if no injury occurred?
A: Property damage and other minor inconveniences are typically covered by your car accident settlement amount if no injury occurred. The amount can vary significantly based on the extent of damage to the vehicle or property.
Speak to a Car Accident Attorney in Alabama Today
At Long & Long Injury Attorneys, we’ve been helping our injured neighbors in Alabama for over 20 years, and our skilled attorneys bring more than a century of combined experience to our firm. We understand the challenges you face after suffering neck and back injuries from a car accident. Let us fight for your rights and get a fair settlement for your car accident neck and back injury case. Contact us for a free case review.
