Herniated Disc from a Car Accident in Colorado

You’re not imagining the pain. What started as a slight ache after the crash has grown into something that affects everything—sitting, lifting, and spending time with your family. A herniated disc from a car accident isn’t just painful—it’s a disruption to your life, your work, and your plans for the future.

Keep reading to find out what steps you can take to protect your rights, navigate Colorado’s laws, and pursue fair compensation for everything this injury has taken from you.

Can a Car Accident Cause a Herniated Disc?

So, can you get a herniated disc from a car accident? Yes, you absolutely can. The force generated during a car accident can cause immense stress on the spine, leading to a disc pushing out of place or rupturing. While some people feel pain immediately, others notice symptoms days or weeks later. Common signs of a herniated disc from a car accident include:

• Persistent back pain that worsens with movement,
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs,
• Weakness in muscles connected to the injured area, and
• Difficulty performing simple tasks, like bending over or lifting light objects.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you need to see a doctor ASAP. Not only does timely medical care improve your chances of recovery, but it also documents your injuries for legal claims.

What Do You Need to File a Claim for a Herniated Disc After a Car Accident?

Filing a personal injury claim can allow you to recover compensation when facing mounting medical expenses and time away from work. But it’s not just about submitting paperwork—it’s about making sure your case is strong enough to stand up to insurance companies that often undervalue injuries like a herniated disc after a car accident.

• Start with medical records. A diagnosis from a doctor is one of the most powerful pieces of evidence in your case. It links your herniated disc directly to the car accident, leaving little room for the insurance company to argue otherwise.
• Gather evidence. Photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, and police reports all strengthen your claim by providing details on how the crash happened and who is responsible.
• Work with an experienced attorney. Insurance adjusters often offer quick payouts that fail to account for long-term medical needs, and without skilled representation, you risk accepting far less than you’re entitled to. 

Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. knows how to push back against insurance company tactics and fight for the compensation you deserve. 

What Is the Average Settlement for a Herniated Disc Car Accident?

Every settlement is different because every case is unique. For herniated disc injuries, the average settlement amount depends on factors like the severity of your injury, the financial impact you experience, and whether the insurance company disputes your claim. 

Here’s what can influence your car accident settlement for a herniated disc:

• Medical costs—past and future expenses for doctor visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and other treatments;
• Lost income—wages you lost while recovering and reduced earning capacity if the injury prevents you from working in the future; and
• Pain and suffering—the impact of ongoing pain and limitations on your daily life.

Colorado also caps noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, in most cases. 

Colorado Laws Impacting Your Herniated Disc Claim

On top of managing your recovery from your herniated disc, you’re now trying to figure out how to hold the other driver accountable for the accident. The legal side of things can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Colorado law. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your right to compensation for a herniated disc car accident.

In Colorado, you have three years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury claim. That might sound like a long time, but every day that passes makes it harder to collect evidence that could strengthen your case. Witness memories fade, people move, documents get lost, and it gets tougher to prove the connection between the accident and your injury. 

Colorado also uses a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you’re partially at fault for the accident. Here’s how it works:

Let’s say the other driver was mostly at fault, but you are found to be 20% responsible. If your damages total $100,000, your compensation will be reduced to $80,000. However, if you are 50% or more responsible, state law prevents you from recovering anything.

Insurance companies often use this rule to minimize payouts by shifting blame onto you. Strong evidence and a legal team that knows how to push back can ensure you’re treated fairly.

How We Support Clients With Herniated Disc Injuries

When dealing with a herniated disc claim, you’re likely thinking about more than just the legal process. You’re balancing medical bills, pain, time away from work, and everything else this injury has disrupted. You need a team that understands how all of these pieces fit together. That’s where Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. comes in.

Transparent Communication at Every Step

We know you don’t need more uncertainty in your life right now. That’s why we prioritize keeping you informed from start to finish. From day one, we explain the legal process in plain terms so you’re never confused about what’s happening or why. When you have questions, we’re here with answers—no runarounds, no delays.

Local Knowledge and Proven Experience

Our team brings over 100 years of combined experience, all rooted in representing clients across Colorado. We know the local courts and the insurance tactics used in this region and use this knowledge to get results for you.

Personal Attention

Every case we handle is different because every person we represent is different. We take the time to review medical records, accident reports, and consultations with experts to ensure nothing is missed. Whether negotiating with an insurance company or preparing for trial, we focus on securing compensation that reflects what this injury has truly cost you.

You’re not just hiring a law firm—you’re choosing a team ready to guide you through this and help make things right.

Take the First Step—Contact Us Today

You’ve read about how we approach cases like yours, and now it’s time to take action. If you’re dealing with a herniated disc from a car accident, Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. is here for you. Call us or fill out our online form to get started today.