{"id":214,"date":"2026-08-13T01:08:58","date_gmt":"2026-08-13T01:08:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/34-74-180-255.nip.io\/catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/accidents-causing-catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/"},"modified":"2026-08-17T09:44:52","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T09:44:52","slug":"accidents-causing-catastrophic-back-neck-injuries","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/accidents-causing-catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/","title":{"rendered":"Causes of Catastrophic Back and Neck Injuries"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-secondary-background-color has-background-dim-60 has-background-dim\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Person using a wheelchair looking forward with quiet resolve after a catastrophic spinal injury.\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/person-using-a-wheelchair-looking-forward-with-quiet-resolve-photo-74-4.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1376px) 100vw, 1376px\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\">Catastrophic Injuries \u00b7 Florida &amp; Nationwide<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">What Causes Catastrophic Back and Neck Injuries?<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);\">Severe damage to the spine can change your life in an instant. Understand how these injuries happen \u2014 and how our attorneys help victims and families pursue accountability.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Request a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Focused on Serious, Life-Altering Injury Cases<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Licensed<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Florida Bar-admitted attorneys<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Nationwide<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">We take catastrophic cases across the U.S.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Bilingual<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">English &amp; Spanish client resources<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone chg-stat-ico\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center chg-stat has-base-color has-text-color\">Free<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">No-cost, confidential case review<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By CHG Lawyers \u00b7 Published July 25, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Common Accidents That Cause Catastrophic Back and Neck Injuries<\/h2>\n<p>The most common <strong>causes of <a href=\"\/resources\/catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/\">catastrophic back and neck injuries<\/a><\/strong> are high-force events. These include truck and car crashes, falls from height, violent attacks, and dives into shallow water. These accidents damage the spine, spinal cord, or vertebrae (the bones of the spine). The harm is often permanent and life-altering.<\/p>\n<p>This page explains how these serious injuries happen. It is written for injured people and their families who want plain answers. For a full overview, see our pillar guide on <a href=\"\/resources\/catastrophic-back-and-neck-injuries\/\">catastrophic back and neck injuries<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7-1024x572.png\" alt=\"Young adult in a wheelchair works with a physical therapist in a spinal-cord-injury rehabilitation gym.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7-768x429.png 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7-1024x572.png 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/young-adult-in-a-wheelchair-works-with-a-physical-therapist-photo-7.png 1376w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1376px) 100vw, 1376px\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,#900000);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>What Counts as a &#8220;Catastrophic&#8221; Back or Neck Injury?<\/h2>\n<p>A catastrophic back or neck injury is permanent, life-altering damage to the spine, spinal cord, or vertebrae. It is not the same as everyday back pain or a sore neck.<\/p>\n<p>A muscle strain, whiplash, or an ordinary ache usually heals with time and care. This page is not about those injuries. We are talking about injuries that change your life for good, such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Damage to the spinal cord that causes <a href=\"\/resources\/paralysis-paraplegia-quadriplegia\/\">paralysis<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Permanent loss of movement or feeling in the arms or legs<\/li>\n<li>Loss of bladder or bowel control<\/li>\n<li>Broken vertebrae that need <a href=\"\/resources\/spinal-cord-injuries\/\">spinal fusion<\/a> surgery (surgery to join bones together)<\/li>\n<li>Injuries that need lifelong care and equipment<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In plain terms, a catastrophic neck injury is severe enough to cause lasting harm. It often hurts the spinal cord. It is not pain that fades.<\/p>\n<h2>How the Spine Gets Injured: The Common Mechanisms<\/h2>\n<p>Most catastrophic spine injuries come from four forces. These are sudden speed changes, compression, over-bending, and penetrating trauma. Knowing these forces helps explain why some accidents cause permanent damage and others do not.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Sudden speeding up or slowing down.<\/strong> The head and neck whip forward and back fast. This happens in crashes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Compression (axial load).<\/strong> Force drives straight down through the spine. This is common in a fall onto the head or a dive into shallow water.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Over-bending (hyperextension and hyperflexion).<\/strong> The neck or back bends too far backward or forward. This tears tissue and crushes the cord.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Penetrating trauma.<\/strong> An object such as a bullet or blade pierces the spinal column.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The most common cause of a catastrophic neck injury is violent bending plus compression. These are the exact forces in high-speed crashes and hard falls.<\/p>\n<p>Why does the same crash injure one person mildly and paralyze another? Force, angle, age, and health all matter. A harder impact, a bad angle, older bones, or an existing spine problem can turn a survivable crash into a permanent injury.<\/p>\n<h2>The Most Common Accidents That Cause Catastrophic Back and Neck Injuries<\/h2>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/spinal-cord-injury\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20377890\">Mayo Clinic<\/a> lists the leading causes of spinal cord injury. They are motor vehicle crashes, falls, acts of violence (mostly gunshot wounds), and sports and recreation injuries such as diving. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC) keeps the largest U.S. database on these injuries. It reports that vehicle crashes and falls together cause most new spinal cord injuries each year.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Truck and large-vehicle crashes.<\/strong> Federal rules cap most loaded tractor-trailers at 80,000 pounds. When that weight strikes a passenger vehicle, the force on the people inside is extreme. Rear-end crashes and rollovers can break vertebrae and injure the cord. In the <a href=\"\/resources\/truck-accidents\/\">truck accident<\/a> cases our attorneys handle, victims often face permanent spine damage from that raw force.<\/p>\n<p><strong>High-speed and rollover car crashes.<\/strong> Severe wrecks \u2014 not minor fender-benders \u2014 can cause lasting spine and cord injuries. Rollovers are especially dangerous. People inside are thrown against the vehicle.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Falls from height.<\/strong> Common causes include construction falls, ladders, roofs, stairwells, and balconies. A fall that lands on the head or back drives force straight through the spine. NSCISC data show falls are now the leading cause of spinal cord injury among older adults.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian crashes.<\/strong> Riders and people on foot have no crush protection. The impact reaches the body directly, and the spine often takes the blow.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Diving and impact sports.<\/strong> Diving into shallow water is a well-known cause of catastrophic neck injury. The head strikes the bottom, and the neck compresses under the body&#8217;s weight.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Violent attacks on unsafe property.<\/strong> Gunshots, stabbings, and beatings can cause permanent spine and cord damage. We cover this in detail below.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Medical negligence.<\/strong> Sometimes a mistake during spine surgery or treatment causes new, permanent harm. These claims fall within our catastrophic injury claims work.<\/p>\n<h2>When a Violent Attack on Someone Else&#8217;s Property Causes a Spine Injury<\/h2>\n<p>A violent attack on someone else&#8217;s property can cause a permanent spine injury. The property owner may share responsibility.<\/p>\n<p>Picture this. You were shot, beaten, stabbed, or assaulted. It happened at an apartment complex, a parking lot or garage, a hotel, a bar, a gas station, an ATM, or a store. A gunshot wound can cut the spinal cord. Being thrown to the ground or struck hard can break vertebrae. These attacks cause the same catastrophic injuries as a serious crash.<\/p>\n<p>Here is what many victims do not know. If the property owner failed to provide reasonable security, they may share the blame. Reasonable security can mean:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Working locks and gates<\/li>\n<li>Enough lighting in lots, garages, and walkways<\/li>\n<li>Security cameras that work<\/li>\n<li>Guards or staff where crime is a known risk<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Say an owner ignores these basics in an area with a history of crime. The law may hold that owner accountable. Lawyers call this a <strong>negligent security<\/strong> claim. It is also known as inadequate-security premises liability. You do not need to know the legal term to get help. You only need to know that someone else&#8217;s failure may have added to your injury. Learn more on our negligent security page.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,#900000);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Have questions about what happened?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ask our team directly. The first conversation is free, confidential, and there is no obligation to continue.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Talk to our team<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Which Part of the Spine Is Most Vulnerable?<\/h2>\n<p>The cervical spine \u2014 your neck \u2014 is the most likely to suffer catastrophic injury. It is the most mobile part. It is also the least protected by nearby bone and muscle.<\/p>\n<p>Because the neck moves so freely, it bends and twists under force. The cord in the neck carries signals to the arms, chest, and legs. So a serious neck injury can cause the widest loss of function.<\/p>\n<p>Doctors describe how bad a spinal cord injury is, and where it sits, using the <strong>International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI)<\/strong>. This system was developed by the <a href=\"https:\/\/asia-spinalinjury.org\/international-standards-neurological-classification-sci-isncsci\/\">American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA)<\/a>. The ASIA Impairment Scale grades an injury from A (complete) to E (normal). It records the lowest level of the body with normal function. In general, the higher the injury on the spine, the more of the body it affects:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cervical (neck) injuries<\/strong> can affect the arms, hands, trunk, and legs. High neck injuries may affect breathing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Thoracic (mid-back) injuries<\/strong> often affect the trunk and legs.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lumbar (lower back) injuries<\/strong> often affect the hips and legs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Christopher &amp; Dana Reeve Foundation explains these levels in plain language. It also explains how they affect daily life. To see how injury level connects to lasting impairment, read our page on <a href=\"\/resources\/paralysis-paraplegia-quadriplegia\/\">paralysis and loss of function<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>How Do You Know If Your Back or Neck Injury Is Serious?<\/h2>\n<p>Treat any back or neck injury after a hard impact as serious until a doctor says otherwise. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/spinal-cord-injury\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20377890\">Mayo Clinic<\/a> lists emergency signs after trauma, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, arms, or legs<\/li>\n<li>Weakness or not being able to move a limb<\/li>\n<li>Loss of bladder or bowel control<\/li>\n<li>Trouble with balance or breathing<\/li>\n<li>Extreme pain or pressure in the neck or back<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Get medical help after any high-force accident, even if pain seems delayed. Some serious spine injuries are not obvious at the scene. Swelling and bleeding around the cord can get worse over hours.<\/p>\n<p><strong>This article is general information, not medical or legal advice.<\/strong> If you have any of these warning signs, see a doctor or call emergency services now.<\/p>\n<h2>Why the Cause of Your Injury Matters for a Legal Claim<\/h2>\n<p>A claim depends on showing who or what was responsible. That could be a negligent trucker, a careless property owner, or a medical provider.<\/p>\n<p>Two things drive a catastrophic spine claim. First, you must connect the injury to someone&#8217;s negligence. Second, you must show the injury is permanent and life-altering. That is what separates a catastrophic claim from a minor one. Our guide on proving a permanent injury explains this further.<\/p>\n<p>Florida law shapes these cases in two key ways. Under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.11.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a795.11<\/a>, the deadline to file most negligence claims is generally two years. This applies to claims that arose on or after March 24, 2023. Under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/Sections\/0768.81.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7768.81<\/a>, Florida uses a modified comparative-negligence rule. A person found more than 50% at fault generally cannot recover damages. Talking with an attorney early helps protect your rights and your evidence.<\/p>\n<h2>Talk to CHG Personal Injury Lawyers About What Happened<\/h2>\n<p>A permanent back or neck injury changes everything \u2014 for you and for your family. You deserve clear answers and real support.<\/p>\n<p>CHG Personal Injury Lawyers handles catastrophic back and neck injury cases across Florida, including Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville, and nationwide. Our team includes attorneys admitted to The Florida Bar. We serve clients in English and Spanish.<\/p>\n<p>Are you trying to understand what caused your injury and whether someone else may be responsible? We are ready to listen. <a href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Contact us for a free case evaluation<\/a>. We cannot promise a specific result, but we can explain your options.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4-1024x572.png\" alt=\"Neurosurgeon reviewing a cervical-spine MRI showing a spinal cord injury.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4-300x167.png 300w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4-768x429.png 768w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4-1024x572.png 1024w, https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/neurosurgeon-reviewing-a-cervical-spine-mri-showing-a-spinal-photo-7-4.png 1376w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1376px) 100vw, 1376px\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\/><\/figure>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,#900000);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Want to know where you stand?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Tell us what happened and our team will walk you through the options available to you, at no cost.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a free review<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free review<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is a catastrophic neck injury?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A catastrophic neck injury is severe, permanent damage to the neck&#8217;s vertebrae or spinal cord. It often causes <a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/paralysis\/\">paralysis<\/a> or lasting loss of function.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the most common mechanism for catastrophic neck injuries?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Violent bending of the neck combined with compression. This happens in high-speed crashes, hard falls, and dives into shallow water.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Which region of the spine is most prone to catastrophic injury?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cervical spine, or neck. It is the most mobile and least protected part of the spine.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How do I know if my neck and back pain is serious?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Watch for numbness, weakness, trouble moving a limb, or loss of bladder or bowel control. The Mayo Clinic treats these as emergency signs \u2014 seek care right away.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long do I have to file a spine injury claim in Florida?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under <a href=\"http:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0000-0099\/0095\/Sections\/0095.11.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a795.11<\/a>, the deadline is generally two years for claims arising on or after March 24, 2023. You should confirm your specific deadline with an attorney.<\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>This is attorney advertising. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">If You Suspect a Spinal Injury, Do Not Move<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a serious crash, fall, or violent attack, moving someone with a possible spine injury can cause permanent harm. Keep the person still, call 911, and let trained responders stabilize the neck and back. Prompt, careful medical care matters \u2014 and so does preserving evidence for a later claim.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Talk to an Attorney<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Talk to an Attorney<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Common Causes of Catastrophic Spine Injuries<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Truck &amp; High-Speed Crashes<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The extreme force of a commercial truck or high-speed collision can violently bend and compress the spine, causing fractured vertebrae, spinal cord damage, and paralysis.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hard Falls<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Falls from height or onto a hard surface can crush or dislocate vertebrae, leading to permanent loss of function in the arms, legs, or below the point of injury.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Violence on Unsafe Property<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you were assaulted, shot, or attacked on someone else&#x27;s property \u2014 an apartment complex, parking garage, hotel, or business \u2014 a resulting spine injury may support a claim against the property owner who failed to provide reasonable security.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Diving &amp; Impact Injuries<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Diving into shallow water and other head-first impacts drive the neck downward with crushing force, a frequent mechanism behind quadriplegia.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">When Another Party May Be Responsible<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Negligent Driver<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A distracted, fatigued, or reckless driver \u2014 or a trucking company that pushed unsafe schedules \u2014 may be legally responsible for the crash that caused your injury.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">An Unsafe Property Owner<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a landlord or business ignores broken locks, dark lots, or missing security and someone is attacked and seriously hurt, that owner may bear responsibility. The legal term for this is negligent security.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">A Careless Provider<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Medical negligence that worsens a spine injury or delays critical treatment can also give rise to a claim.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-secondary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Living with a catastrophic back or neck injury? Let us review your situation.<\/h2>\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a Free, Confidential Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free, Confidential Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/tetraplegia\/\">Tetraplegia<\/a><\/li><\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn the accidents and forces that cause catastrophic back and neck injuries, warning signs of serious spine damage, and when negligence may be to blame.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":51,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/accidents-causing-catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/es\/lesiones-espalda-cuello-graves\/accidentes-lesiones-espalda-cuello-graves\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/accidents-causing-catastrophic-back-neck-injuries\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"about\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Spinal cord injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spinal_cord_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Paraplegia\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paraplegia\"}], \"mentions\": [{\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Tetraplegia\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tetraplegia\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Paralysis\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paralysis\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Spinal cord\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spinal_cord\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"American Spinal Injury Association\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/American_Spinal_Injury_Association\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Personal injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Personal_injury\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Statute of limitations\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Statute_of_limitations\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Comparative negligence\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Comparative_negligence\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Premises liability\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Premises_liability\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"Spinal cord injury (SCI)\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q1415275\"}], \"@type\": [\"Article\", \"FAQPage\"], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/attorneys\/igor-hernandez\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/attorneys\/igor-hernandez\/\", \"jobTitle\": \"Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/www.floridabar.org\/directories\/find-mbr\/profile\/?num=106386\", \"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/igorh\/\", \"https:\/\/profiles.superlawyers.com\/florida\/miami\/lawyer\/igor-hernandez\/cd5f52fd-6cf1-4c47-8c6e-5e8f339a380d.html\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is a catastrophic neck injury?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"A catastrophic neck injury is severe, permanent damage to the neck's vertebrae or spinal cord. 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The Mayo Clinic treats these as emergency signs \u2014 seek care right away.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long do I have to file a spine injury claim in Florida?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Under Fla. Stat. \u00a795.11, the deadline is generally two years for claims arising on or after March 24, 2023. You should confirm your specific deadline with an attorney.\"}}]}, {\"@type\": \"Article\", \"about\": [\"Catastrophic back injuries\", \"Catastrophic neck injuries\", \"Spinal cord injury causes\"], \"author\": {\"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"@type\": \"Organization\"}, \"headline\": \"Common Accidents That Cause Catastrophic Back and Neck Injuries\", \"publisher\": {\"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"@type\": \"Organization\"}, \"disclaimer\": \"This article provides general information only and is not medical or legal advice. Consult a physician for any medical concern and a licensed attorney about your specific situation.\", \"description\": \"A plain-language, medically grounded explanation of the accidents and mechanical forces that cause catastrophic back and neck injuries, how to recognize serious spine damage, and when another party's negligence may be responsible.\", \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\"}, {\"@type\": \"FAQPage\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"name\": \"What is a catastrophic neck injury?\", \"@type\": \"Question\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"text\": \"A catastrophic neck injury is permanent, life-altering damage to the cervical spine or spinal cord \u2014 not a routine strain or ordinary neck pain. 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