In 2020, motor vehicle accidents were the second leading cause of hospitalizations and ER visits in Georgia. Back injuries, like bulging or herniated discs, are some of the most frequent injuries suffered by accident victims. While those injuries can be fairly common, no two car accidents are the same, so it can be hard to determine the average bulging disc car accident settlement in Georgia. The potential settlement value comes down to the extent of your injury, the total cost of your medical treatment, and the impact of that bulging disc on your everyday life. With years of experience in representing clients with bulging disc injuries, our experienced team at MG Law can review the details of your case and help determine the value of your claim. And most importantly, we can prove what your case is worth to the insurance companies. Get in touch with our team now at (770) 988-5252 to book your appointment.
What Is a Bulging Disc?
Sitting between the vertebrae of your spine are small discs made up of an external layer of tough cartilage and an inner layer of soft cartilage. These discs act as a cushion that absorbs shock and prevents vertebrae from rubbing against each other. As you age, the discs deteriorate and start compressing or sagging, causing them to “bulge.” A bulging disc occurs when the disc material protrudes beyond the normal margins by approximately 50% of the circumference of the disk. Many bulging discs arise due to everyday activities but can worsen due to traumatic incidents like car accidents. In most cases, a bulging disc will cause pain in your back, neck, or other areas along your spine.
When one disc starts bulging, it can affect other discs along your spinal canal. In many cases, bulging discs become gradually more painful over time.
Short-term treatment for a bulging disc often includes anti-inflammatory medication, chiropractic care, and physical therapy. Steroid injections can also manage the pain caused by a bulging disc.
Is a Bulging Disc the Same as a Herniated Disc?
No. A herniated disc occurs when the outer layer of cartilage cracks, allowing some inner layer to leak out of the disk. Comparing a spinal disc to a jelly-filled donut, a herniated disc would occur when the jelly leaks out of the donut through a crack in its exterior. The herniated disc can press against nerve roots in the spine and cause significant pain along your neck, back, or extremities. Herniated discs can occur due to regular wear and tear, just like a bulging disc, or can arise from a traumatic or acute injury. Short-term treatment for a herniated disc typically includes anti-inflammatory medication, chiropractic care, physical therapy, and steroid injections.
Herniated discs are also referred to as slipped or ruptured discs.
How Is a Bulging Disc Settlement Calculated?
Every bulging disc injury is different, so it may be difficult to determine the precise value of your settlement. In assessing the value of your potential settlement, we look at special damages, also referred to as economic damages, which are direct monetary losses caused by your bulging disc injury. Examples of special damages include:
- Medical bills,
- Chiropractor bills,
- Cost of steroid injections,
- Rehabilitation expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Loss of future earning capacity, and
- Repair costs for property damage.
Our team can compile proof of your damages so we can negotiate a fair settlement offer on your behalf. General damages, also known as noneconomic damages, are non-quantifiable losses that account for the long-term consequences and psychological impact of the injury. General damages are not easily quantifiable. Examples of general damages for a bulging disc injury include:
- Pain and suffering,
- Physical disfigurement,
- Loss of companionship,
- Loss of quality of life,
- Mental anguish, and
- Emotional trauma.
It is harder to calculate the value of noneconomic damages than economic damages. But evidence of noneconomic damages come from your personal experience and everyday living. Is it harder to go about your daily routine? Do you need help from a partner or loved one around your home? Those are a few examples. We can also hire an economic expert to help determine the non-monetary losses caused by your bulging disc injury.
Our team will determine a potential value for damages stemming from your bulging disc to ensure your settlement fully compensates you. An insurance representative may contact you immediately after your injury and offer a settlement worth less than you deserve. Insurance companies make money by paying you as little as possible, so talk to an experienced attorney before taking a low-ball offer.
How Much Is a Bulging Disc Worth in a Car Accident? Contact MG Law Today for an Evaluation.
Our team knows how to calculate the value of a bulging disc injury and can assist your case by:
- Compiling evidence, such as the accident report for your collision;
- Gathering invoices and receipts to calculate the extent of your economic damages;
- Working with experts to determine the extent of your noneconomic losses; and
- Preparing your case to go to trial, if necessary.
Our team of seasoned, knowledgeable attorneys at MG Law is committed to providing our clients with the highest level of legal representation to secure the settlement they deserve. Contact our team today at (770) 988-5252 to schedule an appointment.
Michael Geoffroy’s law practice focuses on auto collisions, premises liability, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury. He stands up for the cause of justice throughout Georgia and on behalf of his clients every day. He is a leader in both the courtroom and the community, having been recognized numerous times for his involvement in each.