Understanding Brachial Plexus Nerve Injuries After New Mexico Trucking Accidents: Albuquerque Trucking Accident Lawyer Explains
One common type of injury in any type of motor vehicle accident is a nerve injury, specifically a brachial plexus injury. This is because of the force of impact and the use of a seatbelt to restrain a driver or passenger. Since the force of impact in a New Mexico trucking accident is significantly higher, the likelihood and severity of injury is significantly greater. When an occupant in a smaller motor vehicle suffers a nerve injury or brachial plexus injury in an 18 wheeler wreck, victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries.
Here at the NM Truck Accident Attorneys, we know that serious brachial plexus injuries can result in debilitating, permanent, and life-altering injuries. Victims of New Mexico trucking accidents may no longer be able to perform the same type of employment, or may become dependent on the assistance from others for daily living. If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with a brachial plexus injury, please call our experienced Albuquerque trucking accident lawyer by dialing (505) 308-1556 to learn how we an help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Brachial Plexus
Your brain sends messages to all parts of your body. The main message highway is the spinal cord in the spine. The brain and the spinal cord are called the central nervous system. It is extremely vital to normal functioning.
Extending out of the spinal cord are other nerves which extend to the furtherest reaches of the your body, including your fingers and toes. These nerves are known as the peripheral nervous system, and send to the spinal cord and brain various pieces of information such as pain, pressure, moisture, and heat. Messages to move the extremity are also sent, which cause muscles to extend or contract.
The brachial plexus is a group of nerves originating in the neck (cervical spine) and extending through the arm and down to the fingers. These nerves bunch together at the base of the neck behind the collarbone, and go through the shoulder girdle. Ultimately they control all sensation and movement in the arm, hands, and fingers.
Brachial Plexus Injuries
There are several different types of brachial plexus injuries which could occur in a New Mexico trucking accident. These injuries are caused by the body being thrust or pulled in one direction, but the shoulder and arm going into another. This is commonly due to a seatbelt.
Some of the common brachial plexus injuries include the following:
Avulsion – This is the most severe type of brachial plexus injury when the root of the nerve in the spinal cord is completely pulled away. This means that no signals can be sent from the brain to the arm, or the vice-versa. This is a catastrophic injury and usually is difficult if not impossible to surgically repair. It will not heal by itself.
Rupture – This is when part of the nerve is torn which can send confusing signals, incomplete signals, or certain parts of the arm, hand, or fingers could be injured. Surgery can be helpful, but sometimes the nerve does not heal correctly.
Neuroma – This is when the nerve stretches but is not completely torn. Scar tissue will form around the stretch areas which is intended to repair the damage, but could cause residual pain, numbness, or decreased strength.
Neuropraxia – This is when the nerves are stretched but not torn, and there is no scar tissue formation. This is the least severe type of a brachial plexus injury.
Brachial Plexus Injuries Caused by New Mexico Trucking Accidents Can Result in Heavy Damages
If a victim of a New Mexico trucking accident cannot perform the same work as before, he or she may have significant lost wages and lost earning claims. Any type of nerve damage case may also result in significant medical expenses. Here at the NM Truck Accident Attorneys, our Albuquerque trucking accident lawyers know how to protect your rights. If a truck driver caused your New Mexico motor vehicle crash in Lordsburg, Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Roswell, or anywhere else in New Mexico due to fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel, call us to learn how we can help fight for your rights by dialing (505) 308-1556 to learn what rights you may have. You can also contact us on our website through the easy to use and convenient Contact box located by clicking here.
