Soft tissue injuries can cause significant pain and physical limitations after a Chicago car accident even when X-rays do not show a fracture. Since these injuries are not always visible on conventional imaging, they are often disputed by insurance companies.
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What Soft Tissue Injuries Can Be Caused by a Car Accident?
Car accidents can damage muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues throughout the body. Common soft tissue injuries include:
- Whiplash and other neck strains.
- Back strains and sprains.
- Shoulder muscle or tendon injuries.
- Ligament sprains.
- Muscle tears.
- Contusions and bruising from the seat belt, steering wheel, door, or other parts of the vehicle.
- Soft tissue injuries involving the knees, hips, arms, or legs.
These injuries can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, muscle spasms, reduced range of motion, numbness, or difficulty using the affected area. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others develop as inflammation and swelling increase after the crash.
What Happens If the Insurer Disputes a Soft Tissue Injury Claim?
If an insurer questions whether a soft tissue injury came from the crash or argues that the condition is less serious than claimed, you will need stronger documentation. You can still pursue compensation, but proving how the injury developed and how it affects daily life may require:
- Medical records showing when symptoms began and how they progressed.
- Diagnostic testing and physical examination findings.
- Treatment records documenting ongoing pain, weakness, or limited movement.
- Work restrictions or records of missed time from employment.
- Statements from doctors linking the injury to the collision.
- Prior medical records showing whether the injured area caused problems before the crash.
If the insurer continues to deny or undervalue the claim, you can continue negotiations or pursue a lawsuit. A Chicago personal injury lawyer can help develop the proof you need and handle negotiations, signaling to the insurer that you are not scared to go to trial.
What Compensation Can a Soft Tissue Injury Claim Include?
Soft tissue injury symptoms can be severe and interfere with your daily life. Compensation may be available for:
- Current and future medical care, including doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, imaging, and other treatment related to the injury.
- Lost wages from time missed at work.
- Reduced earning capacity if the injury limits your abiliy to perform the same job or work the same hours.
- Pain and suffering caused by ongoing discomfort, stiffness, weakness, or restricted movement.
- Loss of normal activities when the injury makes everyday tasks, exercise, driving, or recreation more difficult.
A person can still pursue compensation even when a soft tissue injury develops gradually or takes time to diagnose. In Illinois, most car accident injury lawsuits must be filed within two years of the crash.
Get Help With a Chicago Soft Tissue Injury Claim
Soft tissue injuries can become difficult claims when an insurer questions your diagnosis, treatment, or its connection to the crash. Our Chicago car accident lawyers at Mark L. Karno & Associates, LLC can review the evidence, address insurance disputes, and pursue compensation for your accident-related losses.
Contact us online or by calling (312) 701-0090 to arrange a free consultation.