{"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":"2026-10-08T19:25:00","modified_gmt":"2026-10-08T19:25:00","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":"Signs of Spinal Injury After a Car Accident"},"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 decoding=\"async\" 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\"\/><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\">Spinal Cord Injuries<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Signs of Spinal Injury After a Car Accident<\/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);\">Know what to watch for. Spinal injuries can develop over hours or days. Early recognition and medical care are critical.<\/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 Case Evaluation<\/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 Case Evaluation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/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 03, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Signs of Spinal Cord Injury After a Car Accident: What to Look For and What to Do<\/h2>\n<p><strong><a href=\"\/resources\/glossary\/paralysis\/\">Paralysis<\/a>\u2014the inability to feel or move your arms or legs\u2014is the clearest sign of a spinal cord injury.<\/strong> If someone conscious after a crash says they cannot feel their legs or move their limbs, suspect spinal cord injury right away. This is not muscle soreness or bruising. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.<\/p>\n<p>Understanding the difference between a spine injury and a spinal cord injury, recognizing the warning signs, and knowing what to do at the scene can mean the difference between prompt treatment and missing critical hours.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img 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\" 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=\"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>Spine Injury vs. Spinal Cord Injury: The Critical Difference<\/h2>\n<p>This distinction matters for medical care and legal understanding:<\/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\u2014the bundle of nerves that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. A spinal cord injury 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 bone fracture. Only imaging\u2014MRI or CT scan\u2014can show whether the spinal cord itself is injured.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Paralysis and loss of sensation indicate spinal cord damage, which is permanent and life-altering.<\/strong> Bone fractures can heal. Spinal cord damage does not.<\/p>\n<h2>The Red Flag: Paralysis and Loss of Sensation<\/h2>\n<p>When someone conscious reports they cannot feel or move their legs after a crash\u2014especially with neck or back pain\u2014suspect spinal cord injury.<\/p>\n<p>Here&#8217;s what paralysis means: the signals from the brain are not reaching the limbs. The spinal cord carries those signals. If it is damaged by a fractured vertebra, a herniated disc, or the force of impact, the signals get 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, not just the bones.<\/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 proves otherwise.<\/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\">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>What First Responders and Bystanders Should Do<\/h2>\n<p>If you witness an accident and suspect spinal cord injury, your actions in the first minutes matter:<\/p>\n<p><strong>1. 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.<\/p>\n<p><strong>2. Do not move the victim<\/strong> unless they are in immediate danger (fire, traffic). Movement can worsen spinal cord damage. Improper handling can make a partial injury complete.<\/p>\n<p><strong>3. Keep the victim&#8217;s head, neck, and spine as still as possible.<\/strong> If they are lying on their back, support their 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.<\/p>\n<p><strong>4. Do not allow the victim to 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.<\/p>\n<p><strong>5. If the victim is conscious and able to 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 information helps with medical diagnosis and legal documentation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>6. Reassure the victim and keep them calm<\/strong> while waiting for emergency personnel. Panic can worsen shock and complicate medical assessment.<\/p>\n<p><strong>7. Preserve evidence from the scene.<\/strong> Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, weather, and lighting. Photograph the accident scene from multiple angles. Record witness names and contact information. Note the time of day and any other vehicles involved. This evidence matters later if negligence is involved.<\/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. They ask the patient to move their fingers and toes, to report where they feel touch, and to describe any pain or numbness.<\/p>\n<p>Imaging studies (MRI, CT, 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. Developed by the American Spinal Injury Association and 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\u2014cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), lumbar (lower back), or sacral (tailbone)\u2014combined with the AIS grade determines the extent of paralysis and what 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 are critical because treatment decisions depend on the exact nature and location of the injury.<\/p>\n<h2>Temporary Paralysis and Spinal Shock: What You Need to Know<\/h2>\n<p>Some accident victims experience temporary paralysis due to <strong>spinal shock<\/strong>\u2014a temporary loss of nerve function below the injury. Spinal shock can last hours to weeks and may resolve partially or completely.<\/p>\n<p>However, 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. Medical evaluation and ongoing monitoring are essential to understand the full extent of injury.<\/p>\n<h2>Real-Life Descriptions of Spinal Cord Injury 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;\u2014loss 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;\u2014loss of movement below the injury.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;It feels like pins and needles&#8221; or &#8220;Burning sensation&#8221;\u2014nerve pain, not muscle pain.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;I can&#8217;t catch my breath&#8221; or &#8220;My chest feels tight&#8221;\u2014breathing changes in upper spinal injuries.<\/li>\n<li>&#8220;I have severe pain in my neck or back&#8221;\u2014especially 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 demands immediate emergency care and imaging.<\/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\">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>When Negligence Caused the Injury<\/h2>\n<p>If another driver&#8217;s reckless or negligent behavior caused the accident\u2014speeding, running a red light, distracted driving, or failure to yield\u2014you 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. Your life changes permanently.<\/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 future medical care and adaptive equipment<\/li>\n<li>Modifications to home and vehicle to accommodate paralysis<\/li>\n<li>Assistance and personal care services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>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\">Florida Statute \u00a7 95.11<\/a>, an injured person generally has two years from the date of injury to file a personal-injury lawsuit. Document everything: medical records, accident reports, police reports, witness statements, photos from the scene, and the impact on daily life.<\/p>\n<p>An attorney who focuses on catastrophic injury claims can help evaluate whether negligence occurred, what compensation may be available, and how to build a strong case for your future.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img 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&#x27;s neck for injury assessment in hospital setting.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"\/><\/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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 what 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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spinal shock\u2014temporary loss of nerve function\u2014can last hours to weeks, but 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 class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">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 sue?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If negligence caused the accident, you may have a legal claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care costs. An attorney can evaluate your case and the statute of limitations (generally two years in Florida).<\/p><\/details><hr \/>\n<p>If you or someone you know suffered paralysis or loss of sensation after a car accident\u2014and someone else&#8217;s recklessness caused it\u2014<a href=\"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/contact-us\/\">contact us for a free case evaluation<\/a>. We focus exclusively on catastrophic injury claims and can help you understand what may come next.<\/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.<\/em><\/footer>\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\">Key Warning Signs to Know<\/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\">Loss of Sensation or Paralysis<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inability to feel or move your arms, legs, hands, or feet is the clearest sign of spinal cord injury. This may develop immediately or over the first few hours after impact.<\/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\">Severe Pain or Pressure<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Intense pain in the neck, back, or along the spine\u2014especially pain that radiates into your limbs\u2014can signal vertebral fracture, disc herniation, or cord damage.<\/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\">Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Inability to control urination or bowel movements, or unexpected loss of function, is a serious warning sign that demands immediate medical evaluation.<\/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\">Weakness, Tingling, or Numbness<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Partial loss of strength, pins-and-needles sensations, or numbness in the arms, legs, or torso may indicate nerve or cord involvement that requires urgent imaging.<\/p><\/div><\/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<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Spinal injuries are not always obvious at the scene. Symptoms can emerge hours or even days after the crash. If you experience any of the signs above\u2014or if you have severe neck or back pain\u2014seek emergency medical care immediately. Delays in diagnosis and treatment can worsen outcomes.<\/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\">Contact Us for Guidance<\/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\/\">Contact Us for Guidance<\/a><\/div><\/div>\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\">What You Need to Know<\/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--info\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Spinal Injury \u2260 Paralysis<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A fractured vertebra or herniated disc can cause severe pain and permanent impairment without damaging the spinal cord itself. Imaging\u2014MRI, CT scan, or X-ray\u2014is essential to determine the full extent of 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\">Immediate Medical Evaluation Matters<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Even if you feel &#x27;okay&#x27; after the crash, a thorough medical exam can detect injuries you may not notice. Some spinal injuries worsen without prompt treatment.<\/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--document\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Document Everything<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep records of all medical visits, imaging results, treatment notes, and symptom changes. This documentation is vital if you pursue a claim for your injuries.<\/p><\/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\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your Recovery Comes First<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Focus on medical care and rehabilitation. Once you are stable, an attorney can help you understand your legal options and whether the accident was caused by negligence.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/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\">Injured in a Car Accident? We Can Help.<\/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\">Get Your Free Case Evaluation Today<\/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 Your Free Case Evaluation Today<\/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\/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, loss of sensation, and neck pain are red flags for spinal cord injury. Learn what to look for and what happens next if negligence caused it.<\/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":"[{\"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"CHG Personal Injury Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/chglawyers.com\/\"}, \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"headline\": \"Signs of Spinal Injury After a Car Accident: What to Look For\", \"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\"]}, \"areaServed\": {\"name\": \"Florida\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, \"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. A fractured vertebra or herniated disc can cause severe pain without damaging the spinal cord itself. Imaging is needed to tell the difference.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What does the ASIA Impairment Scale measure?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"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 what functions may be affected.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How long does spinal shock last?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Spinal shock\u2014temporary loss of nerve function\u2014can last hours to weeks, but permanent damage may still exist even if some sensation returns.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What should I do if I witness someone with a suspected spinal cord injury?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Call 911 immediately and keep the victim'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.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"If someone else caused my spinal cord injury, can I sue?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"If negligence caused the accident, you may have a legal claim for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care costs. An attorney can evaluate your case and the statute of limitations (generally two years in Florida).\"}}], \"articleBody\": \"Paralysis in the arms or legs is the clearest sign of a possible spinal cord injury. When a conscious accident victim reports they cannot feel or move their limbs after a crash, spinal injury must be suspected immediately. 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