Pinched nerve injuries can be excruciating and debilitating, affecting every aspect of your daily life. a nerve damage lawsuit might seem easy, but a pinched nerve settlement can be pretty daunting if you have no prior experience.
If you’ve suffered a pinched nerve due to an accident or negligence, understanding the settlement process can help you navigate your personal injury claim and seek fair compensation. We will guide you all about a nerve damage settlement and help you get coverage for a more severe injury if required.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about pinched nerve settlements, from identifying the injury to maximizing your compensation.
What Is a Pinched Nerve Injury?
A pinched nerve, also known as nerve compression, occurs when surrounding tissues, such as bones, cartilage, muscles, or tendons, apply excessive pressure on a nerve.
This pressure disrupts the nerve’s function, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or muscle weakness. Pinched nerves can occur in various parts of the body, including the neck, back, and extremities. This is what typical pinched nerve settlements run along in court. However, if someone has suffered severe injuries, their dynamics may be different.
What Are the Symptoms of a Pinched Nerve?
Symptoms of a pinched nerve can vary depending on the location and severity of the compression. Common symptoms include:
- Sharp, aching, or burning pain radiating from the affected area
- Numbness or decreased sensation in the area supplied by the nerve
- Tingling or “pins and needles” sensations (paresthesia)
- Muscle weakness in the affected area
- Frequent feeling that a foot or hand has “fallen asleep”
These symptoms can be intermittent or persistent and may worsen during certain activities or after prolonged periods of immobility.
What Are the Causes of Compressed Nerves?
Several factors can contribute to the development of a pinched nerve, including:
Herniated discs:
A common cause of pinched nerves, particularly in the neck and lower back.
Arthritis:
Inflammation and bone spurs associated with arthritis can compress nerves.
Injuries:
Trauma from car accidents, falls, or sports injuries can lead to nerve compression.
Repetitive motions:
Activities that involve repetitive hand, wrist, or shoulder movements can cause pinched nerves.
Obesity:
Excess weight can increase pressure on nerves, especially in the lower back.
Prolonged immobilization:
Sitting or lying in one position for extended periods can lead to nerve compression.
Can I Get Compensation for Nerve Damage?
Yes, if you have suffered nerve damage due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
Nerve damage claims typically fall under personal injury law, and you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How to Pursue a Pinched Nerve Settlement
To pursue a pinched nerve settlements for car accident injuries or other cases, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Treatment: Immediately seek medical care to diagnose and document your injury. Your medical records will serve as crucial evidence in your claim.
- Consult a Personal Injury Attorney: An experienced personal injury lawyer can guide you through the claims process and help you understand your legal rights.
- Gather Evidence: Collect evidence related to your injury, such as medical bills, accident reports, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene.
- File a Personal Injury Claim: Your attorney will help you file a personal injury claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- Negotiate a Settlement: Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement that covers your damages.
- Consider Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking your case to court.
How Settlements Are Determined for Pinched Nerve Injuries
Settlements for pinched nerve injuries are determined based on several factors, including:
- Injury Severity: The more severe the injury, the higher the potential settlement. Severe pain, permanent nerve damage, and disabling nerve damage can lead to higher compensation.
- Medical Expenses: Compensation typically covers medical bills, including costs for surgery, physical therapy, medications, and future medical treatments.
- Lost Wages: If your injury has caused you to miss work or resulted in a reduced earning capacity, you may be compensated for lost wages and future lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, are also considered.
- Impact on Daily Life: The extent to which the injury affects your daily activities and quality of life can influence the settlement amount.
Factors That Can Impact Your Pinched Nerve Settlement
Several factors can impact your pinched nerve settlement, including:
- Severity of the Nerve Damage: More severe injuries generally result in higher settlements.
- Duration of Recovery: Longer recovery times can increase the settlement amount.
- Degree of Permanent Disability: Permanent nerve damage or disability can significantly raise the value of your claim.
- Medical Documentation: Comprehensive medical records and evidence are crucial in proving the extent of your injuries.
- Liability: Clear evidence of the at-fault party’s negligence can strengthen your claim.
- Insurance Policy Limits: The at-fault party’s insurance coverage may affect the maximum settlement amount.
What Is the Average Payout for Nerve Damage?
The average payout for nerve damage can vary widely based on the factors mentioned above. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars for minor injuries to several hundred thousand dollars for severe injuries and permanent disabilities. It’s essential to work with an experienced personal injury attorney to accurately assess the value of your claim.
Examples of Pinched Nerve Settlements
Here are some examples of pinched nerve settlements:
Case 1:
A victim suffered a pinched nerve in a car accident, leading to chronic pain and requiring surgery. The settlement amount was $150,000, covering medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Case 2:
A worker sustained a pinched nerve due to repetitive motions at work. The settlement reached $85,000, accounting for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost income.
Case 3:
A pedestrian was hit by a vehicle, resulting in severe nerve damage and permanent disability. The settlement was $300,000, considering the long-term impact on the victim’s life.
How to Maximize Your Pinched Nerve Settlement
To maximize your pinched nerve settlement, consider the following tips:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, expenses, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and attend all follow-up appointments to demonstrate the seriousness of your injury.
- Avoid Early Settlements: Do not rush to accept the first settlement offer. Consult with your attorney to ensure the offer adequately covers your damages.
- Hire an Experienced Attorney: A tenacious personal injury attorney can negotiate effectively with insurance companies and fight for maximum compensation.
- Be Patient: Personal injury cases can take time. Patience and persistence can lead to a more favorable outcome.
Final Thoughts
Suffering a pinched nerve can be a life-altering experience, but understanding your rights and the settlement process can help you navigate your personal injury case effectively.
By seeking prompt medical treatment, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer, and diligently documenting your injuries and expenses, you can pursue a fair settlement for your pinched nerve injury.
Remember, each case is unique, and working with a knowledgeable attorney can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, and financial losses.
Get A Pinched Nerve Settlement With BLG
If you have any questions or need assistance with your pinched nerve settlement, contact our experienced personal injury attorneys at Bourassa Law Group for a free case review. We are dedicated to helping accident victims recover compensation and rebuild their lives after suffering severe injuries.
1-800-870-8910