Paralysis is a life-changing injury that can occur after a serious road traffic accident. It happens when the body’s ability to control muscles is lost due to nerve damage.
The type and location of the injury often determine how severe the paralysis is. Below are some of the most common causes.
Spinal cord injuries
Damage to the spinal cord in crashes frequently causes paralysis. The spinal cord carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When it’s bruised, crushed or severed, those messages can’t get through. This can lead to paraplegia (loss of movement in the lower body) or quadriplegia (loss of movement in both the arms and legs). Rear-end collisions, rollovers and high-speed crashes often cause this type of injury.
Traumatic brain injuries
The brain controls every part of the body, so damage to it can result in paralysis. A hard blow to the head can bruise brain tissue, cause swelling or lead to bleeding inside the skull. In some cases, this can interrupt the brain’s ability to send signals to certain muscles. Depending on the area affected, the paralysis may be on one side of the body or more widespread.
Nerve damage and crushed limbs
In some crashes, limbs get crushed or nerves are stretched or torn. This can happen when a part of the body is pinned under debris or twisted unnaturally. Nerve damage in the neck, shoulders or lower back can lead to partial or complete paralysis in those areas.
If you or someone you love has suffered paralysis after a crash, financial compensation may be available. Seeking legal guidance will provide you with more information about personal injury claims.