Perhaps like many other Honolulu residents, you and your family decided to enjoy a “staycation” this summer.
However, on your way out to pick up items for a backyard barbecue, you became the victim of a rear-end collision and suffered a whiplash, one of four kinds of back injuries common in this kind of accident.
Spinal fracture
While a seatbelt keeps the lower half of the body relatively still, the violent jolt of a rear-end collision can cause considerable movement in the head and chest areas. These simultaneous forces can shift the focus of impact to your spine and cause a compression fracture. Pain, numbness or muscle weakness can result, and treatment may call for the mobilization of the affected area or, in more serious cases, surgery to repair the damage.
Herniated disc
Because the spine absorbs much of the impact of a rear-end collision, the discs between the vertebrae can easily shift out of place and compress nearby nerves. The result may be one or more herniated discs, a condition that causes pain or a feeling of numbness. A doctor may prescribe rest and conservative care, but surgery also works to bring the discs back into proper alignment.
Spondylolisthesis
This condition is similar to a herniated disc in that vertebrae can shift as the result of a stress fracture, adversely affecting nearby nerves and structures. Depending on the severity of the injury, either physical therapy or surgery can remedy the displacement.
Whiplash
Of the four types of back injuries that are common results of rear-end collisions, a whiplash, which affects the cervical area of the neck, is likely the least inconvenient. You may have to manage symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, and, of course, soreness. However, rest is the best medicine—and a staycation may be just what the doctor ordered. Remember that with any kind of injury resulting from another driver’s negligence, you have the right to expect full and fair compensation to cover your medical expenses, any loss of income and more.