When a car accident happens, the impact can reverberate throughout the body, often causing unseen damage beneath the skin. Soft tissue injuries affect muscles, tendons, and ligaments and may not be immediately apparent, sometimes taking days or even weeks to fully manifest. From whiplash to sprains and strains, these injuries can range from mildly uncomfortable to severely debilitating. If you’ve been involved in an accident causing these issues, contact our car accident lawyer in McAllen today.
Common Causes of Soft Tissue Injuries in Car Accidents
Car accidents subject the human body to extreme forces. The sudden deceleration or acceleration during a collision can cause the body to jerk violently, stretching and tearing delicate tissues throughout the body. This can lead to a wide range of painful injuries.
For example, whiplash occurs when the head snaps back and forth in an unnatural way, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. This is one of the most common soft tissue injuries in car accidents. Side-impact collisions can cause the body to twist unnaturally, leading to sprains in the back, shoulders, or hips. Even low-speed accidents can result in significant soft tissue damage as the body absorbs the shock of impact.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries can be difficult to diagnose. After a car accident, it is essential to seek medical care right away to document your injuries. However, you should continue to receive follow-up care in the days and weeks following the collision, especially if you begin to notice new symptoms.
A healthcare professional will typically begin with a thorough physical examination, assessing range of motion, pain levels, and visible signs of injury. In some cases, X-rays may be ordered to rule out fractures or issues. For more complex cases, MRI scans can provide detailed images of soft tissues, revealing tears, inflammation, or other damage.
Treatment for soft tissue injuries varies depending on the severity and location of the damage. Your doctor may recommend:
- The Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) method
- Over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion
- Bracing or splinting to immobilize the injured area
Seeking Compensation for Soft Tissue Damage in McAllen
After a car accident in McAllen, victims have the right to seek compensation for their injuries, including soft tissue damage. However, these cases can be complex due to the often invisible nature of the injuries. Insurance companies may attempt to downplay the severity of soft tissue damage or argue that the injuries are unrelated to the accident.
In these situations, an attorney can build a compelling case on your behalf. They can gather medical evidence to connect your injury to the collision, consult with experts who can testify to the impact of the damage on your life, and establish the other driver’s fault for the accident. Your lawyer can also handle negotiations with insurance companies and make sure that you are not unfairly blamed or pressured into accepting inadequate settlements.
Get Legal Help for Your Soft Tissue Injury Claim
Although soft tissue injuries are often overlooked after a car accident, you should not underestimate their impact on your life. De La Garza Law Firm can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical care, pain and suffering, and more. We will advocate for your rights anywhere, from negotiating tables to the courtroom. Contact us today at (956) 533-1426 for a free consultation and learn how our car accident attorneys can help.
