{"id":62634,"date":"2026-10-03T17:30:40","date_gmt":"2026-10-03T17:30:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida-cities-most-car-accidents\/"},"modified":"2026-10-27T15:19:55","modified_gmt":"2026-10-27T15:19:55","slug":"florida-cities-most-car-accidents","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida-cities-most-car-accidents\/","title":{"rendered":"Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms After a Car Accident"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-80 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"Patient in cervical collar reviewing spine X-rays with spinal surgeon during consultation.\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/patient-in-cervical-collar-reviewing-spine-x-rays-with-spina-photo.jpg\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><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\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Florida Personal Injury | Spinal Cord Injuries<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms After a Car Accident: What to Watch For<\/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);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Some signs of a spinal cord injury show up right away. Others appear hours or days later. Learn what to look for, and find out how CHG Personal Injury Lawyers can help your family after a crash.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Get a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/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=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);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\">Why people contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers<\/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--heart 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\">First consultation, confidential and without obligation<\/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\">Florida<\/h3><p class=\"has-text-align-center wp-block-paragraph\">Florida-based firm serving clients throughout the state<\/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--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\">Attorneys admitted to The Florida Bar<\/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 October 24, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Spinal Cord Injury After a Car Accident: Warning Signs and What to Do Next<\/h2>\n<p>Picture what Sam saw. A car has crashed, and a man is lying on the pavement. He is awake and talking, but he is in severe neck pain and says he cannot feel his legs. Sam&#8217;s question is the one many bystanders ask: which symptom points to a possible spinal injury?<\/p>\n<p>The best answer is <strong><a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/paralysis\/\">paralysis<\/a>, the inability to feel or move the arms or legs.<\/strong> If someone conscious after a crash says they cannot feel their legs or move their limbs, treat it as a possible spinal cord injury and call 911 right away. This is not muscle soreness or bruising. It is a medical emergency that needs immediate care.<\/p>\n<p>Knowing the difference between a spine injury and a spinal cord injury, recognizing the warning signs, and acting correctly at the scene can make a real difference in the hours that follow.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If you or a family member has been paralyzed or has lost feeling after a crash, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/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=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);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,currentColor);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\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/physiotherapist-guiding-patient-through-back-exercises-in-cl-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Physiotherapist guiding patient through back exercises in clinic.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Spine Injury vs. Spinal Cord Injury: The Critical Difference<\/h2>\n<p>This distinction matters for medical care and for understanding what happened:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>A spine injury<\/strong> is damage to the bones (vertebrae) or discs of the spine. A fractured vertebra is a spine injury. It can be painful and serious, but the nerve tissue inside may be unharmed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>A spinal cord injury<\/strong> is damage to the nerve tissue itself, the bundle of nerves that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. It can happen with or without a visible bone fracture.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can have a spine injury without spinal cord damage. You can also have spinal cord damage without a visible fracture. Only imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, can show whether the spinal cord itself is injured.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Paralysis and loss of sensation indicate spinal cord damage, which can be permanent and life-altering.<\/strong> Bone fractures can heal. Damage to the spinal cord may not.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If imaging has shown a spine or spinal cord injury after a crash, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>The Red Flag: Paralysis and Loss of Sensation<\/h2>\n<p>When someone who is conscious reports that they cannot feel or move their legs after a crash, especially with neck or back pain, suspect spinal cord injury.<\/p>\n<p>Here is what paralysis means. The signals from the brain are not reaching the limbs, and the spinal cord carries those signals. If it is damaged by a fractured vertebra, a herniated disc, or the force of impact, the signals are interrupted. The result is loss of sensation (numbness, tingling, burning) or loss of movement (weakness, inability to move).<\/p>\n<p>This is catastrophic because it suggests damage to the nerve tissue inside the spine, not only to the bones around it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If a loved one lost movement or feeling in their legs or arms after a crash, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>Early Warning Signs to Recognize at the Scene<\/h2>\n<p>According to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mayoclinic.org\/diseases-conditions\/spinal-cord-injury\/symptoms-causes\/syc-20378890\">Mayo Clinic<\/a>, emergency symptoms of a spinal cord injury after an accident include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Paralysis or weakness<\/strong> in the arms, legs, hands, or feet<\/li>\n<li><strong>Loss of sensation or numbness<\/strong> below the injury site<\/li>\n<li><strong>Severe neck or back pain<\/strong>, especially pain that radiates down the spine<\/li>\n<li><strong>Tingling, burning, or &#8220;pins and needles&#8221; sensations<\/strong> in the limbs<\/li>\n<li><strong>Loss of bladder or bowel control<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Difficulty breathing or chest tightness<\/strong> (in upper spinal injuries)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Loss of consciousness<\/strong> or altered mental state<\/li>\n<li><strong>Visible deformity or swelling<\/strong> of the neck or back<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Not every accident victim will show all of these signs. But when someone conscious reports they cannot feel or move their legs after a crash and also has neck or back pain, suspect spinal cord injury until imaging shows otherwise.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If you are unsure what a family member&#8217;s symptoms mean for their claim, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>What to Do at the Scene<\/h2>\n<p>If you witness an accident and suspect a spinal cord injury, your first minutes matter:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Call 911 immediately.<\/strong> Tell the dispatcher about paralysis, loss of sensation, or inability to move limbs. Be specific: &#8220;The victim says they cannot feel their legs&#8221; or &#8220;They cannot move their arms.&#8221; This helps paramedics prepare.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Do not move the victim<\/strong> unless they are in immediate danger, such as fire or traffic. Movement can worsen spinal cord damage, and improper handling can turn a partial injury into a complete one.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Keep the head, neck, and spine as still as possible.<\/strong> If the person is lying on their back, support the neck gently with your hands or rolled towels. Do not twist, bend, or rotate the spine. If they are on their side, keep them there until paramedics arrive.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Do not let the victim stand, walk, or sit up<\/strong> on their own, even if they say they feel fine. Spinal cord damage may not be obvious to the injured person.<\/li>\n<li><strong>If the victim can speak, ask them to describe what they feel.<\/strong> Where does it hurt? Can they feel your touch on their legs? Can they wiggle their toes? Can they squeeze your hand? Write down their answers. This record can help doctors and, later, anyone reviewing the case.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Reassure the victim and keep them calm<\/strong> while waiting for emergency personnel. Panic can worsen shock and complicate the medical assessment.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Preserve evidence from the scene.<\/strong> Photograph vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, weather, and lighting, from several angles. Record witness names and contact information, the time of day, and any other vehicles involved. This evidence matters later if negligence is involved.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If you gathered photos or witness details at a crash scene, bring them to CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>How Doctors Diagnose and Classify Spinal Cord Injury<\/h2>\n<p>In the emergency department, doctors perform a detailed neurological exam. They test sensation and movement in all four limbs, ask the patient to move their fingers and toes, and ask where they feel touch and how they describe any pain or numbness.<\/p>\n<p>Imaging studies (MRI, CT, and X-ray) show the extent of damage to the spine and spinal cord.<\/p>\n<p><strong>The ASIA Impairment Scale (AIS)<\/strong> is the standard classification system used worldwide to grade spinal cord injury severity and level. It was developed by the American Spinal Injury Association and is endorsed by the International Spinal Cord Society. The AIS ranges from:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>AIS A (Complete):<\/strong> Total loss of sensory and motor function below the injury level<\/li>\n<li><strong>AIS B (Incomplete):<\/strong> Sensory function preserved but motor function lost below the injury level<\/li>\n<li><strong>AIS C (Incomplete):<\/strong> Motor function preserved but more than half of the muscles below the injury level cannot move against gravity<\/li>\n<li><strong>AIS D (Incomplete):<\/strong> Motor function preserved and at least half of the muscles below the injury level function adequately<\/li>\n<li><strong>AIS E (Normal):<\/strong> Normal sensory and motor function<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The level of injury (cervical or neck, thoracic or mid-back, lumbar or lower back, or sacral or tailbone), combined with the AIS grade, shapes the extent of paralysis and which functions may be affected. A cervical injury may affect all four limbs (quadriplegia). A thoracic or lumbar injury typically affects the lower body (<a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/paraplegia\/\">paraplegia<\/a>).<\/p>\n<p>Early diagnosis and imaging matter because treatment decisions depend on the exact nature and location of the injury. Follow your doctors&#8217; care and keep every appointment and test result.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If your family&#8217;s medical records show an AIS grade or a level of injury, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/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=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);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,currentColor);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>Temporary Paralysis and Spinal Shock: Why the Timeline Matters<\/h2>\n<p>Some accident victims experience temporary paralysis from <strong>spinal shock<\/strong>, a temporary loss of nerve function below the injury. Spinal shock can last hours to weeks and may resolve partially or completely.<\/p>\n<p>Temporary paralysis does not mean the spinal cord is uninjured. Imaging is always necessary. Even if some sensation or movement returns, permanent damage may have occurred.<\/p>\n<p>This is where the medical timeline and the legal timeline meet. Symptoms can change over hours and weeks, so keep a written log from the first day: what is numb, what moves, what hurts, and when each change happened. Keep every discharge summary, referral, and bill. Doctors&#8217; records are how the timeline of the injury is shown, and Florida deadlines apply to these claims, so contact a lawyer promptly rather than waiting to see how the injury turns out.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If symptoms have changed since the crash, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>What Injured People Often Say About Their Symptoms<\/h2>\n<p>When people injured in <a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/\">car accidents<\/a> describe their symptoms, they often say:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>&#8220;I can&#8217;t feel my legs&#8221; or &#8220;My legs are numb&#8221;: loss of sensation is a major red flag.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;I can&#8217;t move my toes&#8221; or &#8220;My arms feel weak&#8221;: loss of movement below the injury.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;It feels like pins and needles&#8221; or &#8220;Burning sensation&#8221;: nerve pain, not muscle pain.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;I can&#8217;t catch my breath&#8221; or &#8220;My chest feels tight&#8221;: breathing changes in upper spinal injuries.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;I have severe pain in my neck or back&#8221;: especially if accompanied by any of the above.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Any combination of these symptoms after a car accident, fall, or other trauma calls for immediate emergency care and imaging.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If these words describe what you or a loved one is feeling, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<h2>When Another Driver&#8217;s Negligence Caused the Injury<\/h2>\n<p>If another driver&#8217;s reckless or negligent behavior caused the accident (speeding, running a red light, distracted driving, or failure to yield), the injured person may have a legal claim.<\/p>\n<p>Spinal cord injuries are catastrophic, life-altering injuries. They often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and home and vehicle modifications. Daily life can change permanently for the injured person and the family who cares for them.<\/p>\n<p>Damages in a spinal cord injury claim can include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Medical expenses (emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, rehabilitation, ongoing care)<\/li>\n<li>Lost wages and lost earning capacity (often substantial, given the permanence of the injury)<\/li>\n<li>Pain and suffering<\/li>\n<li>The cost of any reasonable and necessary medical treatment or services the claimant will receive in the future<\/li>\n<li>Modifications to home and vehicle to accommodate paralysis<\/li>\n<li>Assistance and personal care services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Florida law sets rules for how evidence of medical expenses is admitted in personal injury cases. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leg.state.fl.us\/statutes\/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&amp;URL=0700-0799\/0768\/Sections\/0768.0427.html\">Fla. Stat. \u00a7 768.0427<\/a>, evidence offered to prove the amount of damages for past medical treatment or services that have been satisfied is limited to evidence of the amount actually paid, regardless of the source of payment. This is one reason detailed billing records matter.<\/p>\n<p>Document everything: medical records, accident reports, police reports, witness statements, scene photos, and how the injury affects daily life.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Next step:<\/strong> If you are weighing whether another driver is responsible, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/doctor-examining-patient-s-neck-for-injury-assessment-in-hos-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Doctor examining patient&amp;#x27;s neck for injury assessment in hospital setting.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>FAQ<\/h2><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What is the most telling sign of a spinal cord injury?<\/summary><p>Paralysis or loss of sensation in the arms or legs is the clearest sign of spinal cord injury after an accident.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can you have a spine injury without paralysis?<\/summary><p>Yes. A fractured vertebra or herniated disc can cause severe pain without damaging the spinal cord itself. Imaging is needed to tell the difference.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What does the ASIA Impairment Scale measure?<\/summary><p>The ASIA Impairment Scale is the medical standard for classifying spinal cord injury severity, ranging from complete loss of function (AIS A) to normal function (AIS E). It helps doctors and patients understand the extent of injury and which functions may be affected.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long does spinal shock last?<\/summary><p>Spinal shock, meaning temporary loss of nerve function, can last hours to weeks. Permanent damage may still exist even if some sensation returns.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What should I do if I witness someone with a suspected spinal cord injury?<\/summary><p>Call 911 immediately and keep the victim&#8217;s head, neck, and spine as still as possible. Do not move them unless they are in immediate danger. Preserve evidence from the scene with photos and witness information.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>If someone else caused my spinal cord injury, can I bring a claim?<\/summary><p>If negligence caused the accident, you may have a legal claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care costs. Deadlines apply, so speak with a lawyer promptly.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Next step:<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have a question about your own situation, contact CHG Personal Injury Lawyers for a free, confidential first consultation, with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/details><hr \/>\n<p>If you or someone you know has lost movement or feeling after a car accident, and another person&#8217;s recklessness may have caused it, <a href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">contact us for a free case evaluation<\/a>. CHG Personal Injury Lawyers is a Florida-based firm that handles personal injury cases of every severity, including catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord injuries and paralysis. Our team can explain what may come next. The firm charges no attorney&#8217;s fees and no case costs unless there is a recovery. A free, confidential first consultation comes with no obligation to continue.<\/p>\n<p>Responsible attorney: Igor Hernandez, CHG Personal Injury Lawyers, Florida.<\/p>\n\n<\/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. Cornish Hernandez Gonzalez, PLLC, 2525 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Suite 300, Coral Gables, FL 33134.<\/em><\/footer>\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\">Warning signs that need emergency medical care<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide 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--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Numbness, tingling, or weakness<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Loss of feeling or movement in the arms, hands, legs, or feet can signal damage to the spinal cord and needs immediate evaluation.<\/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--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Loss of bladder or bowel control<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Changes in bladder or bowel function after a crash are a serious sign that the spinal cord may be involved.<\/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\">Neck or back pain with new symptoms<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Severe pain along the spine, especially with any weakness or numbness, should be checked by a doctor the same day.<\/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--clock\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Symptoms that appear later<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some spinal injuries do not produce obvious signs at the scene. Symptoms that develop over the following hours or days still warrant prompt medical attention.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\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=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);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,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Do not wait to get checked<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you were in a car accident and notice any change in feeling, movement, or bodily function, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Follow the care plan your doctors give you, even if you feel better.<\/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 with our team about your situation<\/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 with our team about your situation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/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\">How our team can help your family<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide 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\">Free first consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our attorneys will listen to what happened and answer your questions. The consultation is confidential and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/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\">Plain-language answers<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We explain the legal process in clear terms, so you understand where your case stands and what to expect at each stage.<\/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\">Focus on serious injuries<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our practice focuses on car accidents and other personal injury cases, including catastrophic injuries such as spinal cord injuries 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\">Help across Florida<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We represent people hurt in accidents throughout Florida, from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Orlando, Tampa, and Jacksonville.<\/p><\/div><\/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=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--secondary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);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\">If you or a family member was hurt in a car accident, you do not have to face the next steps alone.<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+17867514283\">Request a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free, Confidential Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/car-accident-settlement-timeline\/\">How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take With a Lawyer?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/average-claim-amount-car-accident\/\">Average Claim Amount for Car Accident in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida\/\">Car Accidents in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/average-car-accident-claim-amount-florida\/\">Average Claim Amount for Car Accidents in Florida<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/miami\/\">Car Accidents in Miami<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/spinal-cord-injury\/\">Spinal Cord Injuries: A Guide for Victims and Families Facing Paralysis<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/tetraplegia\/\">Tetraplegia<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida-pip-personal-injury-protection-car-accident\/\">Florida&#x27;s PIP (Personal Injury Protection) System: How It Affects Your Car Accident Claim<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/has-anyone-come-back-from-thoracic-outlet-syndrome\/\">Has anyone come back from thoracic outlet syndrome?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/head-injury-concussion-car-accident\/\">Head Injury and Concussion After a Car Accident: What You Should Know<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/herniated-disc-car-accident-claim\/\">Herniated Disc From a Car Accident: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Claim Value<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/herniated-disc-car-accident-settlement-value\/\">How Herniated and Bulging Disc Injuries Affect Your Settlement<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Paralysis in the arms or legs is the clearest sign of a spinal cord injury after a crash. Learn the warning signs, first-aid steps, and what to do next.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":39266,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida-cities-most-car-accidents\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/es\/liquidacion-accidentes-autos-florida\/ciudades-florida-mas-accidentes-autos\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-settlements-florida\/florida-cities-most-car-accidents\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"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\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"geographicArea\": {\"name\": \"Florida, United States\", \"@type\": \"AdministrativeArea\"}}, \"headline\": \"Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms After a Car Accident\", \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"inLanguage\": \"en-US\", \"description\": \"Explains why paralysis in the arms or legs is a key warning sign of a possible spinal cord injury after a car accident, with guidance on recognizing related symptoms, basic first aid, and next steps.\", \"mainEntityOfPage\": {\"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/\", \"@type\": \"WebPage\"}, \"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\": \"Comparative negligence\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Comparative_negligence\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"spinal cord trauma\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q35822396\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"cervical spine injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q110718838\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"complete spinal cord injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q2310702\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"incomplete spinal cord injury\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q33634915\"}, {\"@type\": \"Thing\", \"name\": \"quadriplegia\", \"sameAs\": \"https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q944758\"}], \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Igor Hernandez\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/our-firm\/\", \"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\"]}, \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What is the most telling sign of a spinal cord injury?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Paralysis or loss of sensation in the arms or legs is the clearest sign of spinal cord injury after an accident.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can you have a spine injury without paralysis?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes. 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