What Part of The Spine Is Most Impacted in a Car Crash?

Car Crashes: One of The Leading Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Being involved in a car accident can mean sustaining catastrophic injuries such as fractures to the spinal cord. There have been many studies that support the theory that motor vehicle accidents cause most spinal cord injuries. One particular study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that 31.5% of automobile crashes resulted in spinal cord injuries followed by:

• Falls (25.3%)
• Gunshot wounds (10.4%)
• Motorcycle crashes (6.8%)
• Diving accidents (4.7%)
• Medical/surgical complications (4.3%)

The study notes that spinal cord injury victims often face devastating physical and psychological consequences. Spinal cord injuries are permanent, and the likelihood of complete neurologic recovery is unlikely.

Lumbosacral Spine Injuries

The lumbosacral spine is located in the lower back (lumbar region). There are 33 interlocking bones in the spine known as vertebrae. The lumbosacral area of the spine consists of 5 lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum, which has five conjoined bones. According to another NCBI study, it is concluded that the lumbosacral spine is the most common area of injury after a car crash. The results of the study were as follows:

• The lumbosacral spine area accounted for 64.8% of all spinal cord injuries.
• 86.8% of lumbosacral spine injuries were drivers, and the remaining were passengers.
• Car rollovers were the most common type of accident causing spinal fractures.
• The lumbar anatomic region was associated with two or more organ injuries.

The study concluded that sustaining a severe spinal cord injury and associated multiple in car accidents is high and can be related to the following:

• Low level of standards for car manufacturing.
• Inadequate safety measures in cars.
• Poorly designed roads.
• Quality of driving (negligent or inexperienced drivers).

Someone who has a lumbar spinal cord injury may experience the following:

• Loss of function in the hips and legs.
• Lack of bladder or bowel control.
• May need a wheelchair or walking devices.

Suffered a Spinal Cord Injury in a Car Crash? We Can Help

Sadly, spinal cord injuries are permanent, and the long-term effects on car crash victims can be devastating. If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord injury after being involved in a car accident, you have the right to pursue legal action and hold the negligent parties accountable. We are here to support you and protect your rights.

Car accident ruin your day? Call Del Rio & Caraway! We are ready to help you seek justice for your injuries. Contact us at (916) 229-6755 or send us a message to discuss your case.