No area of the body is more vulnerable than your spine and back. The vertebrae are the bones that make up the spinal column and protect the spinal cord, which is a critical component of your nervous system. In a motorcycle accident, the vertebrae are vulnerable to various types of injuries due to the high impact and other factors involved.
In Kentucky, being in a motorcycle accident carries the risk of all different types of injuries, each of which presents its own unique set of challenges. That said, when you suffer an injury to your vertebrae, you are likely facing more serious injuries that will likely last the duration of your life. And in the worst-case scenario, a vertebrae fracture could be fatal.
Legal Support In Kentucky That You Can Trust
When you’ve suffered a bone fracture in a Kentucky motorcycle accident, you’ll need guidance and support from a number of professionals. From doctors to surgeons, you’ll likely be facing extensive medical care and treatment as you recover. Part of the recovery process also involves legal professionals, who can help you pursue a claim for damages.
At Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC, our team of experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can provide you with support for this process from start to finish. We can help investigate and build a strong claim for you. To learn more about our process, contact us for a free consultation.
Causes of Vertebrae Fractures in Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents
Virtually every type of motorcycle accident in Kentucky can result in vertebrae fractures. A vertebrae fracture can occur in a motorcycle accident when there is a sudden, forceful impact that causes the bones of the spinal column to break or crack. This impact may occur in a variety of different scenarios within a motorcycle accident, some of the most common of which include:
- High-Speed Collisions – When a motorcycle collides with another vehicle or object at high speeds, the force of impact can cause significant damage to the spine, resulting in vertebrae fractures.
- Rear-End Collisions – This is a common type of motorcycle accident where the motorcyclist is hit from behind by another vehicle. This can result in whiplash and other injuries to the spine, including vertebrae fractures.
- Intersection Accidents – Many motorcycle accidents occur at intersections where drivers may fail to yield the right of way or fail to see a motorcyclist. These accidents can result in T-bone collisions or other types of impact that can cause vertebrae fractures.
- Head-On Collisions – This is one of the most serious types of motorcycle accidents. When a motorcycle collides head-on with another vehicle, the impact can cause significant damage to the rider’s spine, leading to vertebrae fractures.
- Ejections – Sometimes, the force of an accident causes the motorcyclist to be thrown from their bike due to an accident. When this happens, their spine can be subjected to tremendous forces upon impact with the ground or other objects. This can result in vertebrae fractures, which can range from minor cracks to severe breaks.
Common Types of Vertebrae Fractures From Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents
Because there are a number of different bones in this area of the body, there are also several potential types of vertebrae fractures that can result from a Kentucky motorcycle accident. These depend on the force of the impact and other circumstances around the accident and can include multiple different types of these fractures in certain instances. Here is a look at some of the more common types of vertebrae fractures that can occur in these accidents:
- Compression Fractures – This is the most common type of vertebrae fracture and occurs when the vertebrae are compressed, often due to a forceful impact. Compression fractures can cause the vertebrae to collapse, leading to pain and possible nerve damage.
- Burst Fractures – As the name suggests, a burst fracture occurs when the vertebrae are crushed and broken into several pieces. Burst fractures can cause significant pain, as well as damage to the spinal cord and nerves.
- Fracture-Dislocations – This type of fracture occurs when the vertebrae are not only broken but also displaced from their normal position. Fracture-dislocations can cause severe pain and may require surgery to correct.
- Flexion-Distraction Fractures – Another painful type of fracture is a flexion-distraction fracture, which happens the vertebrae are pulled apart due to a forceful impact, often from a head-on collision. Flexion-distraction fractures can cause severe pain and may require surgical treatment.
- Chance Fractures – A chance fracture occurs when the vertebrae are pulled apart due to a sudden flexion, often from a rear-end collision. Chance fractures can cause significant pain and may require surgical treatment.
Treatment
There are a number of treatment options for vertebrae fractures, all of which depend on the location and severity of the break. In general, treatment options for vertebrae fractures may include the following:
- Rest and immobilization – Rest is necessary to allow the injured vertebrae to heal properly. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, a back brace, cast, or other device may be used to immobilize the spine.
- Pain medication – Over-the-counter or prescription pain medication may be prescribed to help manage pain associated with the injury.
- Physical therapy – Physical therapy may be recommended to help improve the mobility and strength of the spine after the injury has healed, which can also help prevent future injuries.
- Surgery – In severe cases where the fracture is causing significant pain or spinal cord damage, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the spine. Surgical treatment may include spinal fusion or vertebroplasty.
If you suspect you have a vertebrae fracture, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away. This is because untreated fractures can lead to long-term complications and disabilities. A doctor, usually a specialist, will be able to assess the type and severity of the injury and determine the best course of treatment for your specific case. With that sorted, you can then turn your attention to filing a claim for damages.
Damages Available for Vertebrae Fractures in Kentucky Motorcycle Accidents
A vertebrae fracture is an extremely damaging injury that can leave you with mounting medical bills, not to mention the fact that you will likely have to miss significant amounts of time at work throughout your treatment. All of these losses factor into what you can recover in a claim for damages.
Under Kentucky law, you can file a claim for damages against any party that was negligent and caused the accident that injured you. While not a legal requirement in Kentucky, it’s always in your best interest to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.
Our team can help you:
- Navigate the legal process
- Gather evidence to support your claim
- Negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company or other parties on your behalf
The damages available for vertebrae fractures in Kentucky motorcycle accidents may include:
- Costs related to medical treatment required for the injury, including hospitalization, surgery, medication, rehabilitation, and other related expenses.
- Compensation for lost wages and income from missed work.
- Compensation for repairs to your motorcycle or other damaged property.
- Costs related to the physical and emotional pain, as well as any mental suffering, that results from your injury.
- Costs related to the impact of the injury on your ability to maintain a normal relationship with your spouse or partner.
No matter what option you decide to pursue, working with our team of experienced Kentucky motorcycle accident lawyers can ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Dedicated Legal Representation From Experienced Kentucky Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
At Kaufman and Stigger, PLLC, we have represented clients throughout Kentucky in motorcycle accident claims. This experience has allowed us to develop a winning system to get fair compensation for any injuries that were suffered, including vertebrae fractures. When you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it can be extremely discouraging, especially when you have to deal with an insurance company to try to recover the compensation you’re entitled to under the law. Our team can take this burden from you, allowing you to focus on your health and get back to normal. Don’t wait to get the legal help you need, contact us today for a free consultation.