Low-Speed Impacts Can Damage The Spine

Rear-end crashes are among the most common accidents on Miami roads. Because they often occur at lower speeds in congested traffic, many drivers assume these collisions are not a big deal. Yet unfortunately, low-speed rear-end accidents frequently result in serious spinal injuries.

For instance, herniated discs are possible, harm that may not fully reveal itself until days or weeks later. Having a conversation with a Miami personal injury lawyer about how these injuries occur, why delayed symptoms still support compensation, and steps to access recovery funds is key.

The Reality of Delayed Symptoms

In a rear-end collision, even at speeds under 20 miles per hour, the body is subjected to rapid acceleration and deceleration forces. The torso is pushed forward by the seat while the head and neck lag behind, creating a whip-like motion through the cervical and lumbar spine. This sudden force can tear or weaken the outer layer of spinal discs, allowing the inner material to bulge or herniate. Unlike broken bones, disc injuries do not always cause immediate, intense pain, which is why many victims underestimate the severity at the scene.

Miami’s stop-and-go traffic conditions increase this risk. Frequent braking, short following distances, and distracted driving create scenarios where low-speed collisions still generate enough force to cause lasting spinal damage.

Herniated discs and other spinal injuries often present delayed symptoms due to inflammation and swelling that develop over time. Accident victims may feel stiffness or mild soreness initially, only to experience escalating pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness later. These symptoms may radiate, depending on which part of the spine is affected.

Insurance companies routinely use delayed symptoms to challenge injury claims, arguing that the condition must have been pre-existing or unrelated to the crash. This position ignores well-established medical realities. Soft tissue and disc injuries commonly worsen after the adrenaline of an accident wears off and inflammatory processes progress.

Florida Law and Why Early Guidance Matters

Under Florida law, injured drivers may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and future treatment if the accident caused a significant or permanent injury. Herniated discs often meet this threshold, particularly when they limit mobility or result in chronic pain.

Prompt medical evaluation is essential. Diagnostic imaging such as MRIs can identify disc herniations and link them to the trauma of the collision. Treating physicians can also document how the injury has affected daily activities and work capacity, important factors in establishing damages.

Rear-end collisions are often assumed to be straightforward, but spinal injury claims rarely are. Insurers may dispute causation or pressure victims to settle before the full extent of the injury is known. A Miami personal injury lawyer can ensure medical evidence is properly developed, timelines are documented, and insurers are held accountable for legitimate claims.

Who is guiding you through the recovery process following a rear-end collision? There are ways to protect yourself from undue loss. With proper medical care and legal representation from the attorneys at Spencer Morgan Law you can pursue the compensation necessary to address both immediate and future needs. Call 305-423-3800 to book a confidential consultation.