Not long ago, golf legend Tiger Woods was involved in a serious car accident. As a result of his ordeal, Woods suffered multiple breaks to his legs that required significant surgery to treat. Reports indicate that Woods’ injuries were caused by crushing forces that impacted his lower body.
The Woods’ story highlights for readers of this personal injury blog a serious but often forgotten form of injury associated with serious motor vehicle accidents – crush injuries. This post will discuss crush injuries and what victims can do when their losses are caused by the negligent and reckless actions of others. No part of this post should be read as specific legal advice.
What is a crush injury?
A crush injury happens when a body or part of a body is caught between two surfaces that inflict force upon it. Crush injuries can happen in motor vehicle accidents, construction accidents, and practically anywhere victims can become lodged between two objects. When a crush injury happens, it can cause many different problems including but not limited to broken bones, bruising, bleeding, tissue damages, nerve damage, and compartment syndrome.
What is compartment syndrome and why is it dangerous?
Compartment syndrome is a complication of a crush injury. It happens when blood is forced to stay in one part of the body over time. This can happen when a crush event restricts blood flow due to the force inflicted upon the body. Compartment syndrome can cause muscle problems and can lead to amputation for those affected.
What can motor vehicle accident victims do if they suffer crush injuries?
It is important after any motor vehicle accident that victims seek medical attention for their injuries and losses. When a victim who has suffered a crush injury is assessed for medical treatment, their doctors and nurses may subject them to many tests to evaluate their condition and determine what course of action to take to help them recover. Those tests and procedures can be extensive and costly, and some victims may worry about how they will pay for them once the bills begin to arrive.
An accident victim’s whose crush injuries were caused by the fault of another party may have legal rights to seek the recovery of their damages. Their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damages, and other costs may all be compensable through litigation based on their injuries and losses. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney can guide their crush injury client through the steps of filing a legal claim, providing evidence, and appearing in court to establish liability on the part of another party.
As readers can see, crush injuries are serious. They can cause long-term pain and loss for victims. Those whose losses resulted from the actions of negligent drivers have rights and can learn more about their legal opportunities.
