Average Mississippi Neck and Back Injury Settlements 2024

Navigating the aftermath of a neck or back injury can be a physically and emotionally draining experience. Such injuries often lead to significant medical expenses, lost wages, and profound lifestyle adjustments. Understanding the financial compensation you might expect from a settlement can offer some solace during these challenging times.

At Brown, Bass & Jeter, we are committed to helping our clients understand and navigate the complex landscape of personal injury lawsuits.

What Is the Average Settlement for Neck and Back Injuries in Mississippi?

Settlements for neck and back injuries due to car accidents can vary widely, from as low as $1,500 for minor soft-tissue injuries, which typically include less severe conditions like sprains or minor strains, to upwards of $150,000 for serious injuries that may involve long-term or permanent damage.

Brown, Bass & Jeter attorneys have successfully assisted hundreds of clients in securing compensation for injuries and accidents, including a $100,000 settlement for a plaintiff who was rear-ended and sustained back injuries and another of the same amount for one who was side-swiped and sustained neck, chest, back, and leg injuries.

Types of Damages Available in Neck or Back Injury Settlements

Back or neck injury settlements are calculated by considering a variety of factors to determine the appropriate amount of compensation an injured party should receive.

Here’s a breakdown of how these settlements are generally calculated:

Economic

This includes all tangible costs incurred for the immediate medical treatment following the injury, as well as projected future medical expenses. The economic damages calculation also assesses the extent to which the injury impacts the victim’s career prospects and earning potential.

Non-Economic

This type of damage compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered by the victim. The severity of the pain, the duration of recovery, and the overall impact on the individual’s quality of life are considered.

Types of Neck and Back Injuries and Their Settlement Values

Back or neck injuries are among the most common injuries resulting from accidents, especially in vehicular collisions. The settlement value of these injuries can vary significantly based on their severity, impact on the individual’s lifestyle, and the costs of medical treatment.

Whiplash

This type of injury typically results from rear-end car accidents. Symptoms include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Settlements for whiplash could range from a few thousand dollars for minor cases to over $10,000 for cases involving prolonged pain or therapy.

Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains and Strains)

These injuries are common in car accidents and often result in emergency room visits, which could cost around $1,600. Including additional expenses such as X-rays, medications, and neck braces, the total estimated treatment cost for mild sprains and strains is approximately $2,000.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc occurs when disc material presses on nerve roots or the spinal cord, causing pain, numbness, or weakness. The treatment costs for a herniated disc without surgery can range from $5,000 to $10,000. If surgery, specifically a fusion procedure, becomes necessary, the treatment costs can vary between $20,000 and $50,000.

Vertebral Fractures

Broken or fractured spinal bones can lead to significant pain and mobility issues. Depending on the need for surgical intervention, settlements might range from around $50,000 to over $150,000.

Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury can result in partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive medical care and lifestyle adaptations. Due to the profound impact and lifelong care costs, settlements can be substantial, often ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars.

Broken Back or Neck

Uncomplicated fractures may not require surgery and are typically treated with a brace and restricted physical activity. The costs for such conservative treatment could range from $5,000 to $15,000. However, if a surgical procedure like spinal fusion is needed to stabilize the vertebrae, costs could escalate to between $50,000 and over $150,000.

Factors that Can Affect Neck and Back Injury Settlements

Here are the key elements that can affect the negotiation of a neck and back injury settlement:

Severity and Permanent Impact

The more severe and permanent the injury, the higher the potential settlement. Chronic conditions, permanent disability, or a significant reduction in quality of life due to the injury typically result in higher compensation.

Cost of Medical Treatment

The total cost of past and expected future medical treatments can drive up settlement amounts. This includes emergency care, surgical procedures, medications, physical therapy, and any long-term care needs.

Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity

If the injury results in time away from work or if it impairs the injured party’s ability to earn a living in the future, compensation can include both current and future lost earnings.

Pain and Suffering

Non-economic damages for pain and suffering offer a monetary award for intangible losses. This type of compensation is typically calculated using a multiplier of the economic losses the victim suffered, so the more invasive and long-lasting the pain, the higher the compensation may be.

Insurance Coverage

The limits of the responsible party’s insurance policy can also affect the settlement amount. If the damages exceed the policy limits, the injured party may not be fully compensated unless additional policies apply or further legal action against the at-fault party is taken.

Liability and Comparative Negligence

In Mississippi, if the injured party is found to be partially at fault for the accident, the settlement amount can be reduced proportionally to their degree of fault.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Personal Injury Claim in Mississippi?

Individuals who have suffered a back injury have up to three years to initiate legal proceedings against the party or parties responsible for their injuries. Exceptions may apply in cases involving children and government entities. Consulting with a lawyer can help you understand the time limits that apply to your case.

Contact a Mississippi Neck and Back Injury Lawyer Today

If you’ve suffered neck, back, or spinal cord injuries, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options for seeking compensation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys are ready to review your case, provide detailed advice, and help you secure the maximum settlement possible.

Reach out now to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward recovery and justice.

Katrina S. Brown

co‑founder

Katrina Brown is a highly sought-after trial attorney, known for her courageous spirit and genuine desire to seek justi[...]