Category: Car Accidents

Whiplash happens when the neck forcibly bends forward and backward. It is a common car accident injury, especially when a vehicle gets hit from behind. That sudden, violent movement can force spinal discs out of place, tear nerves in the neck and shoulders, and unnaturally stretch or tear tendons and ligaments. Sometimes, the symptoms do not come out for several days.

It is important to seek medical help soon after a car accident in order to diagnose obvious injuries, but whiplash is not always apparent. Without a medical evaluation and treatment, the symptoms could worsen. Besides that, if you are not checked out in a timely manner, others will want to know why you waited so long – the authenticity and severity of the injuries will likely be questioned.

Common symptoms of whiplash include:

• Dizziness and fatigue: Whiplash often causes dizziness and fatigue, which causes sleeping problems, an inability to concentrate, and a noticeable lack of energy.
• Headaches: The headache pain from whiplash can lead to pain that radiates in your forehead, but this can also be in other parts of your head.
• Neck pain and stiffness: Neck pain might come and go, spread to other areas, and become more intense when you move. Stiffness can be felt when you have difficulty moving your neck from left to right or up and down.
• Sore shoulders and back: That forceful back-and-forth motion to the neck during a car accident can also injure muscles around your spine. You could be feeling irritation and inflammation in your neck as well as your shoulders and back, including burning pain between your shoulder blades and lower back pain.

This is not an all-inclusive list of whiplash symptoms. Others include numbness or tingling sensations in the hands, arms, and fingers, or moodiness, confusion, and depression.

How Do Doctors Diagnose Whiplash?

During a medical evaluation, you will be asked to provide accident details and information about your symptoms. The physician will also want to know if the symptoms are impacting your daily life and if you were able to return to work. A physical exam will be performed. The physician will also check your reflexes, range of motion, and strength. Your pain levels will be analyzed, and any soreness will be noted.

If whiplash is suspected, you may need to complete imaging tests. Mild cases of whiplash are treated with physical therapy, pain medications, cold, heat, and chiropractic care.

Savannah Car Wreck Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Car Accident Survivors With Debilitating Whiplash

If you survived a car accident and need legal help, speak with our Savannah car wreck lawyers at Kicklighter Law. Call us at 912-754-6003 or complete our online form today to schedule a free consultation. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.

Some of the most common driving hazards associated with winter weather include slippery road conditions caused by snow, ice and freezing rain. Unfortunately, these wintery conditions combined with fluctuating temperatures and general wear and tear on the roadways can cause potholes to form. In addition to the damage these potholes can cause to your vehicle, they also increase the risk of serious car accidents, particularly if a pothole causes you or another motorist to lose control of the vehicle. If you were seriously injured in a car accident that was caused by a pothole, an experienced car accident lawyer can assist you with the claims process, determine who is liable for your injuries, and pursue the financial compensation you deserve.

What Property Damage Do Potholes Cause?

If you have ever hit a pothole while driving, you know that hitting a pothole can cause significant structural and mechanical damage to your vehicle, including:

• Tire blowouts and wheel damage. If the pothole is deep, and there are rough or sharp edges, it can puncture the tire or cause it to split. When this happens, the air inside the tire rapidly releases, which can cause a blowout. If the blowout causes you to lose control of your vehicle, or suddenly veer into oncoming traffic, causing a multi-vehicle accident.
• Damage to the steering system. The force of the impact can cause the steering components to become misaligned, making it difficult to steer and maintain control of the vehicle.
• Damage to the exhaust system. Deep potholes can cause the exhaust system to become damaged if it hits the ground upon impact. When the exhaust system is damaged, it can also damage the engine and put you and the other passengers in the vehicle at risk for carbon monoxide inhalation.

What Types of Injuries Do Potholes Cause?

In addition to the damage to your vehicle, potholes can cause injuries ranging from minor scrapes to serious head injuries. The following are examples of common injuries that are caused by pothole accident:

• Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the force of impact causes your head to snap back and forth, which strains the tendons and muscles in the neck. If left untreated, it can cause chronic pain.
• Head injuries: If the force of impact from hitting a pothole causes the head to hit the steering wheel, the windows, or the steel frame, it can cause serious injuries like a fractured skull or a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Blowout injuries. There are a wide range of injuries that can occur if a pothole causes a tire blowout. Examples include cuts, scrapes, strains, broken bones, and organ damage. In extreme cases, they can cause tragic fatalities.

Who Is Liable for a Pothole Accident?

Government agencies are responsible for maintaining public roads and taking the necessary steps to warn motorists about potential hazards, including potholes and dips in the pavement. However, most government agencies are immune from car accident lawsuits through the principle of sovereign immunity. While these laws protect government agencies from being sued, they can still be held liable if you can prove negligence. In order to have a successful claim, you must be able to prove the following:

• The government agency you are suing legally owned or controlled the road that had the pothole, which led to your accident.
• The road in question had a hazardous pothole at the time of the accident. If you can provide photographic evidence, this will help prove negligence.
• The condition of the road was the direct cause of the accident.
• The road condition was so poor that the government agency should have anticipated that an accident could occur, yet they did not fix the problem.
• The government agency’s failure to address the safety issue was a direct factor in the accident.

Savannah Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Victims of Pothole Accidents

If you were injured in a car accident that was caused by a pothole, contact the Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. We will determine who is liable for your injuries, assist you with the claims process and pursue the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. From our offices located in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve all clients of Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.

The fluctuation in temperature that is characteristic of winter weather can affect your vehicle’s performance, particularly your tires. Maintaining the proper tire pressure is imperative for maintaining stability, control, and grip when driving in inclement weather. When the temperature drops, the air pressure in the tires drops significantly, which can increase the risk of a serious car accident. If you were injured in a car accident involving another motorist who was driving on under inflated tires, contact an experienced car accident lawyer at your earliest convenience.

How Does the Cold Weather Impact My Vehicle’s Tires?

The drop in temperature causes the tire’s air pressure to drop an average of one to two pounds per square inch of tire pressure for every ten degrees that the temperature decreases. It is highly recommended that you check your vehicle’s air pressure as soon as the weather changes and the temperatures drop to ensure that your tires are performing properly.

What Are the Dangers of Driving with Under Inflated Tires?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), close to one-third of all passenger vehicles, light trucks and SUVs on the road have at least one underinflated tire. The NHTSA also found that blown tires are responsible for an average of 11,000 car accidents each year, resulting in approximately 200 fatalities. If you do not maintain the optimal air pressure in your vehicle’s tires, there is an increased risk of the following consequences:

• Tire blowouts: When a tire is under inflated, the friction between the tire and the road builds up and creates heat. While tires are built to withstand a certain amount of heat, the tire can explode if the heat reaches an unsafe degree. The driver is at risk for losing control of the vehicle, swerving into another lane, and cutting off or crashing into other drivers on the road.
• Reduced traction: Under inflated tires are less effective at maintaining effective traction on wet, snowy or icy roads. Underinflation can have a negative impact on the effectiveness of the vehicle’s automatic traction control and anti-lock braking system.
• Compromised safety and operation: Under inflated times generally do not perform as they should. In addition to tire blowouts, a softer tire sidewall can cause your car to sway on a curve or corner, which can increase the risk of a rollover, particularly in vehicles with a higher center of gravity. It is also more difficult to steer if the tires are under inflated.
• Wear and tear: When the tires are under inflated, they are more likely to wear out or bald much more quickly. Bald tires have less traction and are more likely to slip on slide on snowy or icy roads.

How Is Fault Determined in a Weather-Related Car Accident?

If you were injured in a car accident during the winter months, there are a range of factors that will be considered when determining fault. For example, if the other driver failed to properly maintain his or her vehicle, including the tires, they may be held liable for the accident. Other unsafe driving behaviors that would cause the other driver to be considered at fault for an accident include speeding, tailgating, texting while driving, or weaving in and out of lanes. A skilled car accident lawyer will review the details of the case and recommend the best legal course of action.

Springfield Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Victims of Weather-Related Car Accidents

If you were injured in a car accident, and the other motorist’s tires were under inflated, contact our knowledgeable Springfield car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. With our offices located in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve all clients of Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and surrounding areas.

American emergency rooms see more than 480,000 burn injuries annually, according to the American Burn Association. Approximately 96 percent of burn victims survive, but most recoveries are lengthy and painful and burns typically result in severe scarring or life-altering disabilities.

Burn injuries can lead to a variety of significant medical complications, depending on the severity, location, and type of burn. Certain parts of the body experience more severe medical complications than others, based on the level of burn sustained.

What Are the Levels of Burn Injuries?

Car fires are common in many accidents resulting in burns categorized up to four different degrees of injury:

• First-degree burns: The least severe burn, first-degree injuries affect only the outer layer of skin and can be caused by severe rubbing against a surface, usually not involving fire.
• Second-degree burns: Burns that affect the outermost layer of skin and the dermis, the second layer of skin tissue, often resulting from coming into contact with hot metal. Second-degree burns result in scarred tissue, blisters, swelling, red or white skin blotches, severe pain, and typically require skin grafting with healthy tissue.
• Third-degree burns: Deep burns that penetrate the skin’s innermost layer and destroy the outermost and second layers of skin along with nerves and other tissues, hair follicles, and sweat glands are considered third-degree. This severe level of burn is extremely painful and almost always requires skin grafting or other reconstructive surgeries and leave significant scarring and disfigurement.
• Fourth-degree burns: The most severe type of burn injury, fourth-degree burns destroy all layers of skin, nerve tissues, muscle, and frequently deep enough to damage bones. The majority of fourth-degree burns result in fatality, and those who survive face extreme pain, multiple surgeries, loss of limbs or other body part, disfigurement, disabilities, and face significantly higher risk of infection.

What Are Common Burn-Related Medical Complications?

Numerous medical complications can result from serious burn injuries, the majority of which require ongoing and extensive medical treatment for extended periods of time. Common complications include:

• Scar tissues, disfigurement, deformities, and permanent disabilities.
• Extensive respiratory system damage to the lungs and esophagus from fire and smoke or chemical inhalation, leading to difficulty breathing and lifelong oxygen use.
• Extreme shock, leading to organ failure due to limited blood circulation to the heart, liver, lungs, or kidneys, and death in many cases.
• Repeated infections, particularly sepsis, which can result in tissue or organ damage with possible death.
• Death or surgical amputation resulting from infection.
• Eye damage, such as scarring, blurred vision, infections, and blindness due to burns to the cornea.
• Immune system damage causing extreme hypothermia or fever.
• Chronic and widespread pain.
• Severe inflammation.

Overcoming burns and resulting medical complications is challenging, and as burns can continue to cause damage long after contact, are also frequently life-threatening for an extended period of time. Burn treatments are lengthy and can be expensive, particularly for those experiencing high degree of burns and severe medical complications.

Am I Eligible for Compensation for My Burn Injuries?

Those sustaining burns due to a car accident may be eligible for economic and non-economic compensation if the other driver caused the accident. Economic compensation covers the easily measured monetary losses caused by the accident, such as medical bills, lost wages, car repairs or loss, and towing fees. 

Non-economic compensation refers to accident-related damages that cannot be measured as a financial loss, such as pain and suffering, loss of consortium, emotional distress, loss of employment ability, family death benefits, and onset of mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Those suffering the most severe burn injuries and resulting medical complications are usually eligible to receive non-economic damages.

The Springfield Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Represent Clients Suffering Accident-Related Burn Injuries

Burn injuries are traumatic, painful, and often require extensive and ongoing medical care, and severely limit a person’s ability to work. If you or a loved one were in a car accident, reach out to the experienced Springfield car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. Call us at 912-461-6309 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. From our office in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve residents in Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.

The week from Christmas to New Year’s also comes with heavily congested roads and plenty of traffic accidents. Some estimates show that there will be close to 107 million drivers out on the roads from December 23 to January 1. Add to that the chances of poor weather conditions and nighttime driving and you have all the ingredients needed for serious crashes. How can you make holiday driving safer this season?

How Can I Prepare for Holiday Driving?

You might be too busy to take your car in for a tune-up this time of year, so at the very least check the tank to see if you have enough gas and check your tire pressure. Replace broken lights and cracked mirrors. Many accidents happen when drivers are rushing, and everyone feels like they do not have enough time during the holidays. Leave at least 10 minutes early to account for traffic and listen to the weather and traffic reports. If you do not have an ice scraper, first-aid supplies, and emergency kit in your car, now is the time to throw them in the trunk.

Driver distractions are the main cause of auto accidents and putting your cell phone on do not disturb is one of the best ways to eliminate the problem. Try not to eat or drink while your car is moving. Avoid grooming, adjusting your GPS, and anything else that will take your focus away from the road.

Remember that fatigued driving symptoms mirror intoxicated driving symptoms (slow reaction times, falling asleep, poor decision-making), so do not drive while fatigued or intoxicated during the holidays and the rest of the year.

Tips for Driving Safely This Time of Year

You cannot control what other drivers do, but you can maintain your focus and practice defensive driving during the holiday season. When you encounter other drivers who are not paying attention or acting aggressively, increase your distance and keep your temper in check. This can be very frustrating, but returning the bad behavior can escalate a situation unnecessarily. If you want to report a hazardous driver, have a passenger do it or wait until you can pull over somewhere safe to do it yourself.

Follow all of the posted speed limits and other traffic signs and signals. Do not tailgate. You will probably be seeing more tractor-trailers this time of year, and their large blind spots make it difficult for their drivers to see other vehicles. Give them a wide berth all the way around, as they also have longer stopping distances and must make wider turns.

The Springfield Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Wish Everyone a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

No one wants to spend the best time of year in the emergency room, but motor vehicle crashes are an unfortunate part of every holiday season. For a free consultation on any type of automobile accident, contact the knowledgeable Springfield car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. We are located in Springfield, Georgia, and help clients throughout Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and surrounding areas. Complete our online form or call us at 912-754-6003 today for a confidential consultation.

As the temperatures start to drop and the days are getting shorter, weather conditions are also starting to change. Rain, sleet, fog, heavy winds and snow are common during the fall and winter months, and they can all affect road conditions and driver performance. While all motorists are urged to use extra caution when driving during inclement weather, this is particularly true for commercial truck drivers who are operating a massive 80,000-pound truck on roadways that may be slick with rain, ice or snow. Unfortunately, when poor weather conditions cause a serious truck accident, it is the occupants of the passenger vehicles that often suffer the most severe injuries and fatalities. If you were involved in a serious truck accident that was caused by poor weather conditions, you are urged to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible.

What Are Examples of Weather Conditions That Can Cause Truck Accidents?

Even when the road conditions are fine and the weather is ideal, truck accidents can occur if the truck driver is drowsy, distracted, or the truck has some type of mechanical failure. However, when you add slippery road conditions and reduced visibility to the mix, it can have devastating consequences, particularly if the truck driver loses control of the vehicle, and the truck is traveling at a high speed. If there are other passenger vehicles in the vicinity, the truck can cause massive property damage and catastrophic injuries and fatalities. The following are examples of the types of inclement weather that can cause horrific truck accidents:

• Heavy rain: Truck drivers must be very careful when driving in the rain. Even a light drizzle can cause the roadways to become slippery when the water and the film that is on the surface of the road causes the truck’s tires to lose traction and spin out of control. Heavy rain can cause visibility issues and increase the risk of hydroplaning. Either of these scenarios can cause devastating truck accidents if there are other vehicles in the vicinity.
• Strong winds: Heavy winds can be dangerous for any vehicle that is traveling on a busy highway. However, large commercial trucks are more susceptible to dangerous crosswinds due to their massive size. If the wind is strong enough, it can cause the truck to drift into another lane, or completely off the road. In addition to the crosswinds, heavy winds can cause snow or debris to obstruct the truck driver’s visibility, making it difficult to see other vehicles on the road.
• Snow or freezing rain: As the temperatures drop, there is an increased chance that rain can turn to freezing rain, sleet or snow. This can affect visibility and cause the roadways to become dangerously slippery. Black ice is particularly dangerous because it is not visible to drivers until it is too late to avoid it.
• Fog: While fog may not seem as treacherous as snow or freezing rain, it can cause major visibility issues. Fog can blur and block a truck driver’s vision, making driving conditions extremely dangerous.
• Lightning storms or thunderstorms: A sudden clap of thunder, or a bolt of lightning can startle a truck driver, causing him or her to hit the brakes or jerk the steering wheel. Any type of sudden movement like this can increase the risk of a collision with another vehicle.

What Types of Truck Accidents Are Caused by Inclement Weather?

Truck accidents are rarely minor fender benders. Due to the size and weight of the average commercial truck, they often cause considerable property damage and life-threatening, even fatal injuries. When road conditions are unsafe, the accident can be even more devastating. The following are examples of truck accident that can occur during inclement weather:

• Underride accidents
• Jackknife accidents
• Rear-end accidents
• Rollover accidents
• Head-on collisions
• Broadside collisions

How Can I Avoid a Truck Accident During Inclement Weather?

You should always drive with extra caution when the weather causes potentially dangerous driving conditions. This is particularly true when you are sharing the road with a massive commercial truck. While truck drivers have a responsibility to use extreme caution during inclement weather, there are proactive steps that you can take as well to avoid being involved in a catastrophic, and potentially deadly truck accident, including:

• Reduce your speed.
• Stay out of the truck’s blind spots.
• Leave extra following distance between your vehicle and the truck.
• Avoid driving if the road conditions are unsafe.
• Do not use cruise control when roads are wet or slick.

How Do I Prove that a Truck Driver Was Negligent in a Weather-Related Accident?

It is a common misconception that you will have a difficult time obtaining financial compensation if you were injured in a truck accident that was caused by inclement weather because suing Mother Nature is not an option. However, all commercial truck drivers have a duty of care to drive safely and to take the necessary safety precautions, particularly when driving in extreme weather. If a truck driver fails to operate the truck with the proper care, particularly during severe weather conditions, he or she may be held liable for your injuries. An experienced truck accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident and ensure that the negligent party is held liable for your injuries. The following are examples of negligent truck driver behavior that is particularly dangerous when the road conditions are poor:

• Drowsy driving
• Distracted driving
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Speeding
• Failure to check blind spots
• Aggressive driving
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Failure to properly maintain the vehicle

According to the Surface Transportation Assistance Act (STAA), truck companies may not terminate or take disciplinary action against a truck driver for refusing to drive in unsafe weather conditions. If the truck company does not allow the driver to stop driving, despite the unsafe driving conditions, there is an increased risk of a serious truck accident. In addition, if the truck driver causes an accident after being told by the truck company that he or she must continue driving, and the accident caused you to suffer severe injuries, you may be able to hold the truck company liable for your injuries.

Springfield Truck Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Seek Justice for Victims of Weather-Related Truck Accidents

If you suffered a serious truck accident injury that was caused by inclement weather conditions, you are urged to contact the Springfield truck accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law at your earliest convenience. We will assist you with every step of the claims process, determine who is liable for your injuries and ensure that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve. We will not stop fighting for you until you are completely satisfied. To schedule a free, confidential consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. From our law office in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and surrounding areas.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many people are gearing up for long journeys to visit family and friends. However, it is crucial that these travelers take the necessary precautions to avoid car accidents during their travels. This is important because car accidents can be dangerous and may even result in serious injuries or death.

To avoid car accidents during Thanksgiving travel, it is essential to stay alert, obey all traffic laws, and pull over when you feel tired or distracted. Additionally, it is important to plan your route ahead of time and travel with a friend or loved one. Here are some tips to help you avoid a car accident this Thanksgiving:

• Plan ahead when traveling during Thanksgiving by mapping out your route in advance and checking the traffic conditions. This will allow you to stay safe on the road by avoiding potential obstacles and being prepared for delays, which can reduce your risk of getting into a car accident.
• Stay focused on the road at all times, especially when passing through busy areas or driving in heavy traffic. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of car accidents, so make sure to pay attention to your surroundings, and always keep your eyes on the road.
• Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to give yourself enough time to react in case of sudden changes in speed or direction. Maintaining a safe following distance will help you stay alert and avoid potential hazards, like sudden stops or lane changes.
• Avoid aggressive driving behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, or weaving in and out of traffic, as these behaviors can increase the risk of getting into an accident due to driver error or impatience.
• Always remember to wear your seat belt while driving, as this can help protect you from serious injuries in the event of an accident. Additionally, it is important to make sure that everyone riding in your car is securely fastened in their seat belts as well.
• Remember to take regular breaks during long drives so that you can rest and recharge before continuing on your journey. This will help keep you alert and focused on the road, minimizing your risk of getting into an accident due to driver fatigue or drowsiness behind the wheel.
• Plan ahead for any weather-related risks that may arise during your trip by checking current weather forecasts and preparing for possible adverse conditions that could impact visibility or safety on the roads. Staying informed about potential hazards will help keep you prepared for anything that may come up during your travels.
• Consider using alternate transportation options, such as public transit or ridesharing, if possible.

Springfield Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Advocate for Safe Thanksgiving Driving

Getting into a car accident during the holiday period can be overwhelming and traumatizing, but legal help is available. If you have been injured in an accident, speak with one of our skilled Springfield car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. Call us at 912-754-6003 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation today. Located in Springfield, Georgia, we serve clients in Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and surrounding areas.

With impending Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s travel, families across the country will be packing up and buckling in to visit family and friends. Just like you would secure all of your suitcases and cargo, you also need to secure your pets.

Pack a Pet Travel Kit

Just like you pack a travel bag with supplies for yourself, your kids, and anyone else traveling with you, you also need to pack a travel kit for your pet. One of the most important and often overlooked items when packing is your pet’s medical records. Especially if you are traveling across state lines, or even international borders, you will need your pet’s medical records. Pets are just like people in that they can get sick more easily when they travel to a new environment. Having your pet’s records will ensure there are no issues with getting medical treatment. State, local, and national ordinances may also require any pets entering to have records of their vaccinations to enter the area.

Just like children, pets can get bored on long car rides. Keep them entertained by giving them a small supply of toys. Just make sure you avoid playing with them while you are driving.

Include pet waste bags and scoops in your travel kit as well. Having these handy will prove invaluable when your pet lets you know it is time to stop at the next rest stop. Not every rest stop or destination will have these supplies, so make sure you bring enough with you.

Make Sure Your Pets Have Food and Medicine

Your pets need medication just like you. When you pack your medicine, make sure you grab any of your pet’s medications that they will need while you are gone.

Depending on how long you are gone, you may need to pack lots of bags of food. These bags can get heavy and could present additional hazards if not properly secured. If you will be gone for a long time, you may want to pack enough food to reach your destination and then buy more. Make sure a store at your destination has the food you need in stock.

If you are traveling a long distance, put some food in your pet’s containment area in your car or schedule time to pull over and feed them. If you are traveling alone, do not fill up their food while trying to drive.

Keep Pets Restrained

If you are traveling alone with your pet, keep your pet restrained. Many people with small lap dogs or cats will keep them in the passenger seat or even on their lap, which is dangerous.

If you have a small dog, you can get a dog seat that straps in similar to a child seat. If you have a larger dog, consider a traveling crate that you keep in the back seat of your car. Make it comfortable for your pet, providing the crate with toys and a soft place to sit or lay.

If your pet is moving around the car freely, that presents hazards not only to them but also to you and your other passengers. While it may be fun for passengers to play with your pet while traveling, do not let your pet roam free in the vehicle while traveling. If you get into an accident, your pet could be seriously injured if they are not restrained. Your pet could also cause you to get into an accident by distracting you. Either scenario could end tragically.

Do not restrain your pet by tying their leash to a seatbelt or other spot in your car. This could cause them to choke or even suffer catastrophic and deadly neck injuries in the event of an accident. Use the right tools at your disposal to ensure your pet’s safety.

Keep Windows Up

Restraints can prevent pets from being a distraction, especially if you have a dog that likes to stick its head out the window of your moving vehicle. If you let your pet stick their head out of the window, you will constantly be trying to secure them so that they do not fall or jump out of the car while moving.

Keeping your windows up will also keep your car running better. Especially in the summer months, your car’s air conditioning will work hard. Keeping your windows up reduces some of the strain on your vehicle. As a bonus, you will get better gas mileage.

Install a Back Seat Barrier

Back seat barriers can help prevent larger pets from distracting you while you are driving. These barriers help keep your pet in the back seat and let you keep your focus on driving. Back seat barriers can also be good for pets who have trouble relaxing in a car. Many animals have difficulty riding in vehicles, especially on long trips, but using a barrier can give them a little breathing room while also preventing them from distracting you.

Back seat barriers also help keep your pet safe if you have to brake suddenly. While your pet may suffer minor injuries, depending on how quickly you have to stop, this will prevent more serious injuries and keep you and your passengers safe.

A Springfield Car Accident Lawyer at Kicklighter Law Will Help You When Other Drivers are Negligent

If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, speak with a Springfield car accident lawyer at Kicklighter Law today. To learn more about how we can help you, schedule your free consultation by calling us at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. We proudly serve our Georgia neighbors in Springfield, Effingham County, Savannah, and the surrounding areas.

Car accidents cause a range of injuries, from minor cuts and scrapes to broken bones, organ damage and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). One of the most traumatic and potentially life-altering types of injuries that can result from a car accident are spinal injuries. While spinal injuries range in severity from minor whiplash to permanent paralysis, and even death, most spinal injuries require extensive, ongoing medical care. If you suffered a spinal injury in a car accident that was caused by the other driver’s negligence, contact a car accident lawyer who can assist you with a personal injury claim. The costs associated with a spinal injury can accumulate very quickly, and a successful outcome will ensure that you receive the financial compensation you deserve. 

How Common Are Spinal Injuries?

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), approximately 17,800 people suffer spinal injuries each year in the United States, and close to 40 percent of those injuries are caused by car accidents. When two vehicles collide, the impact causes jerking and significant compression for the passengers inside the vehicle. The faster the vehicles are traveling at the moment of impact, the greater the force involved in the impact. In most cases, this dramatically increases the severity of the spinal injury. However, even relatively minor accidents can cause serious spinal injuries, including paralysis, if your head was turned in a certain direction, the seat was not in the proper position, or you suffered from a spinal condition that made you more susceptible to additional trauma.

What Are the Most Common Spinal Injuries Caused by Car Accidents?

Spinal injuries are among the most severe types of injuries that can result from a car accident. Unfortunately, they are also among the most common. Depending on the area of the spine that is affected, and the force of the impact, spinal injuries can range from a relatively minor soft-tissue injury to permanent paralysis. The following are examples of the most common types of spinal injuries that are caused by car accidents:

• Whiplash: This is the most common car accident-related spinal injury. While whiplash is a soft-tissue injury that causes damage to the tendons in the neck, complications from whiplash can affect the spine as well. Some victims may experience chronic whiplash, which can cause ongoing pain and emotional distress. In most cases, people with whiplash will recover within a few days or weeks, depending on the severity of the injury. Ice and/or heat therapy, pain medication and muscle relaxers can provide relief from the discomfort.
• Herniated or ruptured disc: The spine is made up of vertebrae, which are small bones that form the spinal column. In between each vertebrae are cushioning discs that prevent the bones from rubbing together. The impact of a car accident can cause the discs to shift, tear, or rupture. This can cause numbness and radiating pain in the area that has been affected by the injury. Treatment options include anti-inflammatory medication, epidural steroid injection, chiropractic care, and surgery, depending on the severity of the injury.
• Spinal fracture: When the impact of a car accident causes vehicle occupants to be jerked from one direction to another, the resulting impact can cause a compression fracture of the spine. A car accident can also cause spondylolisthesis, which occurs when a vertebra is fractured and moves or puts pressure on the spinal column. Depending on the nature of the accident, the victim can suffer a spinal fracture, spondylolisthesis, or both. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, and difficulty with bladder control. Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, and surgery if other, less invasive options are not effective.
• Spinal stenosis: This is not generally caused by car accidents, but a car accident can cause someone who has asymptomatic stenosis to experience pain, numbness and other complications associated with a deteriorating spine. If you suffer from spinal stenosis that was aggravated by a car accident, it is highly recommended that you consult with a car accident lawyer. The other driver involved in the accident may claim that your spinal injury was pre-existing, and not caused by the car accident. A dedicated lawyer will ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Facet joint injuries: Facet joints are located in the spine, and act as a hinge between each vertebra. These joints can become injured in car accidents. Common treatment options include physical therapy, facet injections, chiropractic care, dry needling, and ablation procedures.
• Spinal cord damage: These tend to be the most serious types of spinal injuries as they can cause permanent paralysis in the body below the injury site. Even if the damage to the spinal cord does not result in paralysis, the victim can experience impaired movement and sensation. Treatment options may be limited to experimental treatment and clinical trials.

What Are the Common Symptoms of a Spinal Injury?

There are a wide range of symptoms you may experience if you suffered a spinal injury in a car accident, the severity of which will depend on the nature of the accident and the force of the impact. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is imperative that you seek immediate medical attention:

• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Loss of sense of temperature and touch
• Loss of sexual function
• Muscle spasms
• Muscle weakness
• Numbness
• Painful sensation along the spine
• Problems with digestion
• Tingling sensation

What Are the Costs Associated with a Spinal Injury?

Treating a spinal injury can be extremely costly, particularly if the injury resulted in permanent paralysis, and you are unable to return to work for an extended period, or permanently. Whether you require surgery, ongoing physical therapy, prescription medication to treat your injury, or the car accident caused a more serious, permanent spinal injury, the medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses start to accumulate very quickly. According to the NSCISC, the following are examples of annual healthcare costs and living expenses for victims of spinal cord injuries:

• Paraplegia injury: First year expenses totaled approximately $550,380 and were $72,910 for each subsequent year.
• Quadriplegia injury: First year expenses totaled approximately $1,129,300 and were $196,100 for each subsequent year.

How Do I Prove That My Spinal Injury Was Caused by a Car Accident?

Any time you are injured in a car accident, it is crucial that you seek immediate medical attention. If you believe that you suffered a spinal injury, notify the healthcare provider of any pain, discomfort, numbness or tingling that you are experiencing, and the area of your spine that is affected. The healthcare provider will order tests, including an MRI or a CT scan, to determine the type and severity of your injury. These tests will help the doctor diagnose your injury and recommend the most effective course of treatment. The test results may also help prove that the car accident caused the injury, so make sure that you obtain copies of all medical records and test results.

The key to a successful personal injury claim is that you are able to prove that the other driver was negligent at the time of the accident. In order to prove negligence, your claim must show the following:

• The other driver’s careless or irresponsible behavior caused the accident.
• You suffered a spinal injury as a result of the accident.
• You suffered damages as a result of the accident and the spinal injury.

When filing a claim, it is important to understand that insurance companies are in the business of making money, and they will resort to a range of tactics to avoid paying a hefty settlement. For example, they may argue that your spinal injury was caused by something other than the car accident, or that you were liable for causing the accident. The more evidence you are able to collect that proves that the other driver is at fault, the more likely it is that you will have a successful claim. Make sure that you collect the following evidence from the scene if you are physically able to do so:

• Take pictures of the damage to the vehicles involved, skid marks on the road, the position of the vehicles, and any other images that will help prove fault.
• Talk to witnesses who saw the accident happen and ask if they would provide a statement.
• Obtain a copy of the police report, which may specify which motorist was at fault for causing the accident.

Savannah Car Accident Lawyers at Kicklighter Law Advocate for Victims of Spinal Injuries

If you or a loved one suffered a spinal injury in a car accident, do not hesitate to contact the Savannah car accident lawyers at Kicklighter Law. Our dedicated legal team will thoroughly review the details of your case and determine who is responsible for causing the accident. If negligence was involved, we will assist you with every step of the claims process and ensure that you receive the maximum financial compensation you deserve for your injuries. We will continue to fight for you until you are completely satisfied. To schedule a confidential consultation, call us today at 912-754-6003 or contact us online. With our offices located in Springfield, Georgia, we proudly serve all clients of Effingham County, Savannah, and surrounding areas.