A rear-end collision can force your body forward and backward. Even when the vehicles show limited damage, the impact can strain muscles, injure spinal discs, or aggravate an existing condition. You may wonder, “What should I do if my back hurts after being rear-ended?” Prompt medical care can help identify the problem and begin treatment.
You may also benefit from speaking with a local car accident attorney before dealing with an insurance company. At Rue & Ziffra, we help injured people understand their options and preserve evidence. We also handle communications with insurers so you can focus on recovery.
Back pain after a rear-end crash may begin at once, but it can also appear hours or days later. A medical provider can examine you and decide whether testing is needed. Treatment may involve medication or physical therapy, depending on the injury.
Certain symptoms require urgent attention. Severe pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking may point to a serious spinal injury. Changes in bladder or bowel control also require emergency care. Under Florida Statutes § 627.736, you generally must receive initial medical services within 14 days of a motor vehicle accident to qualify for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits.
If you are unsure what to do, you should know that medical records can help connect your back injury to the rear-end accident. Save your treatment notes and bills. Keep the crash report and photographs in a safe place. It is also helpful to record how your pain changes and how it affects your work or daily activities.
Follow your provider’s recommendations and attend appointments. Gaps in treatment may slow your recovery. They may also give an insurer a reason to question whether the accident caused your condition.
The state’s no-fault system generally requires injured motorists to begin with their own PIP coverage. PIP may pay part of your medical expenses and lost income. However, it may not cover the full effect of a significant back injury.
If another driver caused the crash, additional compensation may be available. Under Fla Stat § 627.737, pain and suffering damages generally require an injury that meets the statutory threshold. A rear-end collision lawyer can review the medical evidence connecting your back injury to the crash, investigate fault, and explain what you should do next. We can also evaluate the losses supported by your claim.
If you are questioning, “What should I do if my back hurts after being rear-ended?” do not ignore your symptoms or manage the insurance process alone. Rue & Ziffra has more than 50 years of experience helping injured clients move forward. We are your local injury attorneys, in your community and on your side. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Rue & Ziffra – Your Trusted Personal Injury Lawyers
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