Many Accidents Can Cause Herniated Discs at C4/C5 or C5/C6. Here’s What You Need to Know.
The cervical spine (neck region) has seven vertebrae–labeled C1 through C7–with discs between each one that absorb shock and protect your spinal cord. These discs act as cushions between vertebrae and are especially vulnerable in accidents. The C4/C5 and C5/C6 levels are among the most common sites for herniated discs.
A cervical disc herniation often affects the shoulders, arms, and hands. When a disc tears or ruptures, its inner gel-like material can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in those areas.
This type of injury can be severe, affecting your ability to work, drive, or even complete daily tasks.
Common Causes of Herniated Discs
Several types of accidents can cause these injuries.
The most common include:
- Car accidents – Rear-end collisions often cause sudden neck movements that damage cervical discs.
- Truck accidents – The force from a commercial vehicle crash can cause severe spinal injuries.
- Workplace accidents – Falls, heavy lifting, or machinery accidents can lead to cervical spine trauma.
- Slip and falls – A sudden impact from a fall can compress or twist the neck.
- Sports or recreational injuries – Contact sports or high-impact activities can damage cervical discs.
If another party’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation under Texas law. Understanding what injuries can result from these types of accidents is essential for assessing the potential scope of your claim and determining the damages you may be eligible to recover.
Symptoms of a C4/C5 or C5/C6 Herniated Disc
A herniated disc at C4/C5 or C5/C6 could cause:
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Pain radiating to the shoulder or arm
- Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced range of motion
Symptoms may appear immediately after an accident, but may also develop gradually. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help. Spinal injuries can cause lasting damage. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for optimal recovery and to prevent further complications, potentially involving surgery or long-term rehabilitation.
Thorough medical documentation of your condition will likely strengthen your personal injury claim, so it’s important to seek medical evaluation immediately following an accident.
Long-Term Consequences of Cervical Spine Injury
If left untreated, herniated discs can lead to chronic pain, nerve damage, or even partial paralysis. Surgery may be necessary in severe cases, and recovery can take months or years.
Understanding Your Legal Options After a Herniated Disc Injury
If you’ve suffered a herniated disc at C4/C5 or C5/C6, knowing what steps to take is necessary to protect your health and your legal rights. Before taking legal action, it’s helpful to understand what types of compensation might be available to you and how long you have to file a claim in Texas.
Compensation for Herniated Disc Injuries
Depending on your case, you may be able to recover:
- Economic damages – Medical expenses, rehabilitation, lost wages, and future earnings.
- Non-economic damages – Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life.
A skilled personal injury attorney can help you assess the full extent of your damages.
Statute of Limitations
In Texas, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline could bar your claim entirely. If your claim is barred, you cannot file a lawsuit and get compensation for your accident injuries.
Contact the Friendswood Personal Injury Lawyers at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has suffered a herniated disc at C4/C5 or C5/C6 from an accident in or around Friendswood, TX, you don’t have to face the legal process alone.
Accident-related spinal injuries can involve complex claims, require extensive medical evidence, and often include negotiations with insurance companies. A qualified personal injury attorney can help you evaluate the cause of your injury, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to under Texas law.
Please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers to get a free initial consultation today. We have offices in Friendswood and Galveston, Texas:
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Galveston Office
2101 Mechanic St. Suite 253
Galveston, TX 77550
(409) 207-9299
The Law Firm of Alton C. Todd Personal Injury Lawyers – Friendswood Office
312 S. Friendswood Dr.
Friendswood, TX 77546
281-992-8633
