What Is a Herniated Disk Injury?
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc ruptures through a weak spot in the tough outer exterior of the disc. This can irritate nearby nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness, usually in an arm or leg. The spine is made up of 24 vertebrae stacked on top of each other. Discs act as shock absorbers between the vertebrae. Each disc has a soft gel center encased in a tough exterior. A herniated disc, also known as a ruptured or slipped disc, develops when the exterior of the disc weakens or tears, allowing the inner gel to bulge out. This can put pressure on a nerve root exiting the spinal cord, causing pain and other symptoms like:- Sharp or shooting pain in the arm, leg, neck or lower back
- Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the arm, leg, neck or lower back
- Pain that gets worse with sitting, standing, sneezing, coughing, or straining
- Pain that gets better with walking or changing positions
How Much Are Herniated Disk Claims Worth in Florida?
In Florida, the average settlement value of a herniated disc injury claim is between $75,000 to $200,000. The exact amount depends on the severity of your injury, details of your accident, and your treatment plan. When determining how much your herniated disc claim may be worth, the insurance company will evaluate several factors. The severity of your symptoms plays a large role. Constant pain, numbness, muscle weakness, or impaired mobility will increase the value. If your daily activities and job duties are limited, that also boosts your claim. For assistance determining the worth of your claim, contact a personal injury lawyer in Greenacres today. Your medical records and bills provide evidence of the treatment you’ve received. More intensive treatments like physical therapy, injections, or surgery signify a serious condition and higher damages. Diagnostic tests that confirm the herniation, like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays, substantiate your injury.Factors That Affect Herniated Disk Settlement Amounts
Several key factors determine how much compensation you may receive in a herniated disc injury claim. The severity of your injury and the details surrounding your accident are important, but other elements also come into play.- Severity of Your Injuries” The more severe your herniated disc injury, the higher the potential settlement amount. Permanent injuries, especially those requiring surgery like a discectomy or spinal fusion, often result in larger settlements compared to minor muscle strains or bulging discs that heal over time.
- Cause of the Accident: How the accident happened and who was at fault are also significant factors. If another party was clearly negligent, such as in a car accident or slip and fall, you have a good chance of recovering costs for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Medical Expenses and Lost Wages: The total costs of your medical expenses, physical therapy, medication, and other treatments play a role in determining a fair settlement amount. Be sure to keep records of all bills and expenses related to your injury.
- Pain and Suffering: Herniated disc injuries often involve a high degree of pain, discomfort, and lifestyle changes. Your pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life are taken into account when negotiating a settlement.
- Insurance Companies Involved: The insurance companies covering the at-fault party and your insurance also affect settlement amounts. Well-funded insurance companies with a reputation for fair settlements may offer higher amounts compared to companies known for aggressively limiting payouts.
