Lake Oswego Head, Neck and Back Injury Attorney

Expert Legal Representation for Serious Injuries in Lake Oswego

In Clackamas County, accidents can change lives in an instant. Many escape unscathed, but others aren’t so fortunate, suffering from serious injuries that could alter their future. Head, neck, and back injuries are particularly treacherous as they often mask their symptoms, tricking victims into believing they’re unharmed until the true severity reveals itself–sometimes even years later!

At Youd Law, led by Lance D. Youd, a seasoned Lake Oswego serious injury attorney, we dedicate ourselves to securing justice for those gravely injured. With over three decades of expertise, we navigate the complex pathways of personal injury law, aiming to recover your due compensation for medical costs, suffering, and other damages. Injured? Don’t wait. Contact us now at (503) 773-5484 for a no-cost initial consultation.

Understanding the Risks: Common Head, Neck, and Back Injuries

The abrupt force from traffic accidents or falls can cause significant injuries to the body’s most vital areas:

• Whiplash: Commonly resulting from rear-end collisions, whiplash is a neck injury characterized by a rapid, whip-like motion of the neck back and forth. This violent strain can disrupt the delicate structures of the neck, leading to symptoms such as severe neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. Over time, these acute symptoms can evolve into chronic issues, affecting mobility and quality of life.
• Concussions: Concussions are a form of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occur when a violent blow to the head disrupts normal brain function. This can happen during impacts with solid objects like a car’s dashboard or the ground. Symptoms can vary widely, ranging from mild confusion and headaches to severe disruptions in cognitive functions and even unconsciousness. Repeated or severe impacts can cause long-lasting brain damage or death.
• Scalp Wounds: In the chaos of an accident, scalp wounds are often overlooked initially but can be indicative of more severe injuries. These lacerations may seem superficial but can mask underlying cranial trauma that poses significant risks if untreated. Moreover, scalp wounds can bleed profusely and lead to secondary complications such as infection or significant blood loss, emphasizing the need for immediate medical attention.
• Herniated Discs: The spine is cushioned by discs between vertebrae, which can rupture or herniate under forceful impacts. This herniation can press on spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the limbs. Chronic back pain often results from such injuries, significantly affecting a person’s ability to perform daily activities and reducing their overall quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Perhaps the most severe of trauma-related injuries, damage to the spinal cord can occur when vertebrae are fractured or dislocated. This can sever or impair the pathways through which the brain communicates with the body, potentially resulting in paralysis below the point of injury. Incomplete injuries where partial loss of function occurs, may still allow some function or sensation, but often with significant, permanent impairment.

Because any of these head, neck, or back injuries can lead to permanent complications, it is always advisable to seek out medical treatment following an accident. A prompt medical evaluation after an accident is crucial, even if you feel fine. The body’s initial shock can mask pain, delaying the onset of symptoms.

Your Rights to Compensation in Lake Oswego

Victims of negligence in Oregon have the right to pursue compensation for the profound impacts of head, neck, and back injuries. These injuries can necessitate extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation, often accompanied by chronic pain and lasting disabilities.

Here’s what you can claim:

• Economic Damages: Covers all out-of-pocket expenses, like medical bills and lost wages.
• Non-Economic Damages: Compensates for pain, suffering, and loss of life quality.
• Punitive Damages: Awarded in extreme cases of negligence to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar future behaviors.