The crash was terrifying, but what comes after can be even worse. Maybe you feel sharp pain in your neck, maybe your hands tingle, or maybe you suddenly can’t move the way you could before. Could it be a spinal cord injury? And if it is, what happens next?

Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious outcomes of a car accident. They can change how you live, work, and care for yourself. Acting quickly protects not only your health but also your legal rights if someone else’s negligence caused your injury.

Signs You Might Have a Spinal Cord Injury

Not all symptoms show up right away, and sometimes people assume they’re just dealing with normal soreness after a crash. But spinal cord injuries are different. Some warning signs include:

• Loss of movement or sensation in part of the body
• Severe or shooting pain in your neck or back
• Difficulty breathing or coughing
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs
• Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels

If you notice any of these, don’t try to “tough it out.” Get medical help immediately.

Why Immediate Medical Care Matters

After a car accident, adrenaline can mask pain and delay symptoms. That’s why seeing a doctor quickly is so important, even if you think your injuries aren’t that serious. Doctors can run scans and tests to determine the extent of the damage and start treatment right away, which can sometimes prevent further harm.

Medical records also serve another purpose: they tie your injury directly to the accident. Without that documentation, insurance companies may try to argue that your condition wasn’t caused by the crash, making it harder to recover compensation later.

Protecting Evidence From the Crash

While your health comes first, gathering evidence from the accident scene can make a major difference down the road. If you’re able—or if a passenger, friend, or family member can help—consider:

• Taking photos of the vehicles, skid marks, and road conditions
• Photographing any visible injuries
• Collecting names and phone numbers of witnesses
• Writing down everything you remember about how the crash happened

This information helps your attorney piece together the facts and build a stronger case.

The Long-Term Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries often require more than just a few doctor’s visits. Victims may face months of rehabilitation, surgery, or lifelong medical care. Many also struggle with limited mobility, loss of independence, or being unable to return to the job they once held.

The financial burden can be overwhelming, especially when medical bills pile up while paychecks stop coming in. That’s why pursuing compensation isn’t just about covering current bills—it’s about protecting your future stability.

Why You Should Work With a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Car accident claims involving spinal injuries are rarely straightforward. Insurance companies know the costs are high and will often fight to reduce or deny payments. An attorney who focuses on these cases can:

• Explain your rights under South Carolina law
• Handle all negotiations with insurance adjusters
• Gather medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony
• Calculate damages for medical bills, lost wages, future care, and pain and suffering
• Take your case to court if a fair settlement isn’t offered

Having an attorney also means you don’t have to handle the paperwork, deadlines, and constant calls from insurers while you’re trying to heal.

Protecting Your Health and Your Future

The days and weeks after a car accident are stressful enough without the added weight of a spinal injury. Getting the right medical treatment and legal guidance gives you the best chance of recovery. Your attorney’s role is to ensure that you aren’t left paying the price for someone else’s mistake.

Call the Law Office of Tyler Rody Today to Get Started

If you suspect a spinal cord injury after a Spartanburg car accident, now is the time to act. Delaying care or legal help can affect your health, your finances, and your future. The Law Office of Tyler Rody is here to stand by your side, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call today for a free consultation and take the first step toward protecting your rights.