What Is the Average Settlement for a Bulging Disc Car Accident in Denver, Colorado?

If you were in a car accident and suffered a bulging disc injury, you may find yourself wondering, How much is a bulging disc worth in a car accident? The average settlement varies greatly depending on factors such as the injury’s severity, the crash’s circumstances, and your ability to prove fault and damages. While no two cases are identical, understanding the key aspects of these claims can help you better understand what compensation you might recover in Denver, Colorado.

It’s worth noting that some injuries, like a bulging disc, can have long-lasting effects on your health and livelihood. Working with a trusted law firm like Dormer Harpring can significantly affect how your case is handled and the settlement you may achieve. Below, we’ll explore what you need to know about these claims, what you may recover, and how local laws may affect your settlement.

What Is a Bulging Disc and How Does It Affect Your Life After a Car Accident?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, a bulging disc occurs when a spinal disc compresses and bulges outward, potentially pressing against nearby nerves. Spinal discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, and when one of these discs is damaged, it can lead to irritation or pressure on surrounding nerves. This condition can result in chronic back pain, numbness, tingling sensations, muscle weakness, and, in severe cases, even mobility issues that can significantly hinder daily life. Car accidents are one of the most common causes of bulging discs due to the substantial impact forces involved during a collision, which can jar the spine and create this type of injury.

If left untreated, a bulging disc can severely affect your quality of life. The pain and discomfort may limit your ability to work, participate in everyday activities, or even perform basic tasks like sitting comfortably or sleeping well. Over time, the condition can worsen if not properly managed, potentially leading to more serious complications such as nerve damage or chronic pain syndromes. Treatments for bulging discs often range from conservative approaches like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and pain management to more invasive options like steroid injections or, in severe cases, surgical intervention to relieve the pressure on the nerves.

In personal injury cases, all of these factors, including medical costs, treatment plans, and the long-term impact on your ability to work and live comfortably, can contribute to the overall settlement amount if another driver’s negligence caused the injury. The severity of the disc injury, the required treatment, and the extent to which it disrupts your life will typically be key considerations in determining the proper compensation.

What Are the Recoverable Damages for a Bulging Disc Injury in a Car Accident?

The damages you can recover for a bulging disc injury fall under two main categories: economic and non-economic.

Economic damages are quantifiable and include:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages due to time off work
• Reduced earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs

Non-economic damages compensate you for losses that don’t have a fixed monetary value, such as:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life

According to Colorado State Law, non-economic damages in personal injury cases are capped at $642,180, though this limit can increase to $1,284,370 in extreme cases. Working with a legal professional to properly document and claim these damages is essential, as they often comprise a large proportion of the total settlement.

How Shared Fault in an Accident Affects Your Bulging Disc Settlement in Colorado

Colorado’s comparative negligence laws can significantly impact how much compensation you may receive. Under Colorado law, you can recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault for the accident. However, the settlement amount will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

For example, if your damages amount to $100,000 but are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $80,000. This makes establishing the other driver’s liability crucial to maximize your potential settlement. Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony can play a vital role in determining fault.

Do I Need a Car Accident Attorney for My Bulging Disc Injury Claim in Denver?

While hiring an attorney for a personal injury claim is not legally required, having experienced legal representation is highly recommended, particularly for complex injuries like a bulging disc. These injuries often come with significant medical expenses, ongoing treatment, and potential long-term impacts on your quality of life. 

A skilled Denver personal injury attorney can make a significant difference by providing the following support:

• Thoroughly investigating the accident: They will collect evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos to establish fault and strengthen your case. 
• Gathering and presenting medical evidence: An attorney ensures your injuries are well-documented by working with medical professionals who can demonstrate your condition’s severity and long-term implications, such as a bulging disc. 
• Dealing with the insurance company: Insurance providers often prioritize minimizing payouts over offering fair compensation. Your attorney will handle all communication, ensuring you aren’t pressured into accepting a low settlement. 
• Representing you in court: If a fair settlement can’t be reached outside of trial, your attorney will advocate, presenting a strong case to help you secure the compensation you deserve. 

Without proper representation, you risk accepting a lowball settlement offer from an insurer that undervalues your claim and fails to address your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Having an experienced attorney by your side gives you peace of mind and protects your best interests.

Why You Should Choose a Lawyer Experienced with Back Injury Claims in Colorado

When seeking compensation for a bulging disc caused by a car accident, it’s essential to work with a Denver Personal injury attorney who has experience handling back injury claims in Colorado specifically. Local laws, such as the state’s comparative negligence statutes and damage caps, require a deep understanding to advocate for your maximum compensation successfully.

Back injuries, such as bulging discs, often require detailed medical records and expert testimony to demonstrate their impact on physical and financial life. 

Contact a Denver Car Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Evaluation

Suffering from a bulging disc after a car accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face the legal process alone. Speak with a Car Accident Lawyer at Dormer Harpring to understand your options for pursuing compensation. With years of experience handling complex injury claims, our team is ready to fight for what you deserve. Call us today at (303) 747-4404 for a free case evaluation and take the first step toward securing your future.

Check Out More Helpful Articles

• What Are Compensatory Damages?
• How Contributory Negligence vs Comparative Negligence Differ 
• Who Pays My Medical Bills If I Have A Personal Injury Case?