Car accidents can cause severe injuries, including back injuries that can make it very difficult to go on with life as you did before. In South Florida, where traffic tends to be bad, it is essential to be aware of common back injuries resulting from car collisions and what can be done if you suffer one. Contact a personal injury lawyer if you have suffered a back injury related to an accident. 

Soft Tissue Injuries 

In a car accident, the collision's sudden impact force can very easily damage the muscles, tendons, or ligaments in the back. These injuries can range from strains and sprains to contusions and muscle tears. Symptoms may include pain, inflammation, tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. While these injuries can heal with time and proper medical care, they can still lead to significant discomfort and limitations. 

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

This condition affects the nerves and blood vessels passing through the thoracic outlet, which is the space between the collarbone and rib cage. Car accidents involving severe or repetitive impacts can compress the nerves and blood vessels in this area, resulting in thoracic outlet syndrome. Symptoms of the condition may include pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and swelling in the upper back, shoulder, arm, and hand. Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome typically involves physical therapy, pain management, and, in severe cases, surgery. 

South Florida is well-known for its beautiful beaches, warm weather, and vibrant downtown areas. When people come from all corners of the world to visit, this can lead to a great deal of foot traffic. Unfortunately, with more people on foot comes the risk of serious pedestrian accidents. If you have been struck by a car while walking in South Florida, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact a personal injury attorney to learn more about your rights and legal options.

Most Common Injuries Suffered in Pedestrian Accidents in South Florida 

Pedestrian accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which may be serious or even life-threatening. A driver who acted negligently and struck a pedestrian may be held liable for the resulting damages, including the costs of medical treatment, loss of income, and other physical or financial harm a person has suffered as a result of an accident.

In many cases, pedestrian accidents will involve broken bones. With the force of a vehicle hitting a pedestrian, bones can easily be fractured, and in some cases, they may be shattered or crushed. These injuries can include anything from broken legs and arms to fractured hips. Serious fractures can require lengthy hospital stays, surgeries, and physical therapy, not to mention lost wages from missed work.

Distracted driving comes in countless forms. Often, it involves the use of a smartphone or other electronic device behind the wheel. However, distractions may also come in the form of passengers in the vehicle, eating or drinking, or even daydreaming.

No matter the type of distraction that contributed to a crash, victims of distracted driving accidents should understand their rights and options for filing a claim for damages. It may be possible to recover compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company for vehicle repairs, medical bills resulting from crash-related injuries, and other losses.

Holding a Distracted Driver Accountable

Looking down at a phone while driving is extremely dangerous. It takes the driver's mind off of driving, eyes off of the road, and hands off of the wheel. Florida law prohibits drivers from typing on their phones while operating a motor vehicle. However, texting and driving laws are difficult to enforce, and data shows that citations for texting and driving are issued infrequently.