Arthritis is characterized by swelling or tenderness and the joints. Individuals may experience arthritis in one joint or in many joints throughout their body. The main symptoms of arthritis include stiffness and joint pain that usually worsen with age. There are various types of arthritis that individuals can be diagnosed with. However, can arthritis be caused by a vehicle accident?
In general, we will find that arthritis is not usually caused by a vehicle accident, but the symptoms of arthritis can certainly be exasperated or triggered by a collision. Here, we want to examine whether or not individuals will be able to recover compensation for arthritis pain after a vehicle accident occurs.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is an incredibly common diagnosis, and according to the Mayo Clinic. The pain and suffering caused by arthritis often lead to many individuals needing to adjust their lifestyles to adapt. This can include altering day-to-day activities as well as affecting a person’s ability to work. There are various types of arthritis that individuals can suffer from.
Osteoarthritis is characterized by cartilage breakdown. Cartilage is the slippery, hard tissue that covers the ends of the bones where the joint is formed.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a different type of disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, starting with the lining around the joint area.
Car Accidents and Triggering Arthritis
When most people think of arthritis, they think of the two types of arthritis mentioned above. Inflammation of the joints is typically something that develops over time and worsens with age. However, vehicle accidents could trigger arthritis.
Any type of traumatic incident could lead to an injury that affects the joints. An injury could lead to the cartilage sustaining an injury, thereby speeding up the process of arthritis developing in that particular area. Car accidents that lead to broken or dislocated bones and joint areas that affect cartilage could not only wear down the cartilage in a traumatic way instantly but could cause issues that are not noticed until a later date, well after the accident happened.
The lack of cartilage and an injury to an area that leads to the degrading of cartilage could cause excruciating pain.
Securing Compensation After an Accident
Anytime a person sustains an injury to their bones or joints, whether as a result of a vehicle accident, a slip and fall, or some other type of traumatic incident, they need to speak to a skilled and experienced orthopedic doctor or surgeon to understand the likelihood that they will need extended care.
A doctor will also examine the likelihood of arthritis developing. Additionally, individuals who already have arthritis at the time an accident occurs could sustain extended pain and suffering as a result of the vehicle accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a car accident cause arthritis?
While arthritis is not usually directly caused by a vehicle accident, the physical trauma and impact of a collision can exacerbate or trigger the symptoms of pre-existing arthritis or even lead to the development of arthritis in previously healthy individuals.
What are the main types of arthritis?
The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, which is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joints.
How can a car accident trigger arthritis?
Traumatic incidents like car accidents can lead to injuries that affect the joints and cartilage. These injuries can accelerate the development of arthritis in the affected area, even if symptoms do not appear until much later.
What should I do if I develop arthritis after a car accident?
If you develop arthritis after a car accident, seek medical attention from a skilled orthopedic doctor or surgeon to assess your condition and determine the best course of treatment. You should also consult with an experienced car accident lawyer to discuss your options for securing compensation.
Can I recover compensation for arthritis pain after a car accident?
If you develop arthritis or experience worsening arthritis symptoms due to a car accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Conclusion
Car accident victims involved in incidents caused by the actions of other drivers should be able to recover compensation for their immediate traumatic injuries as well as any type of injury triggered by the accident or occurring down the road as a result of the accident. An experienced Martinsburg car accident lawyer can help.
This includes coverage of all medical expenses related to the incident, lost wages caused by the individual not being able to work, as well as pain and suffering resulting from again student and any subsequent triggering injuries.
