An annular tear, also known as an annular fissure, refers to a condition that affects the intervertebral discs of the spine. It occurs when there is a partial or complete rupture in the annulus fibrosus, the tough outer layer of the disc. This tear can occur due to various factors, including age-related degeneration, repetitive stress on the spine, or traumatic injury. Annular tear injuries carry significant implications for individuals who experience them, causing considerable pain and limitations in their daily lives. The experienced New York personal injury lawyers at Stephen Bilkis & Associates recognize the value and impact of these injuries and are dedicated to helping those affected seek the compensation they deserve. Because of our knowledge and experience, our attorneys and of counsel have secured over $1 billion in compensation for our client who were seriously injured due to negligence.
Examples of Annular Tear Injury Verdicts in New YorkTo get an idea of the range in value for annular tear injury cases, the following cases are examples.
Case: Kmiotek v. Chaba, 60 A.D.3d 1295 (N.Y. App. Div. 2009)
Accident Type: Auto accident
Verdict: $75,000
Case Summary: Plaintiff sustained an annular tear and herniated discs at L4-5 and L5-S1 that required surgery. As a result, the plaintiff suffered a permanent consequential limitation of use of her back.
Case: Cioffi v. American Airlines, Inc., 2005 N.Y. Slip Op. 30191 (N.Y. Sup. Ct. 2005)
Accident Type: Premises liability
Verdict: $1,157,000 for past pain and suffering; $2,600,000 for future pain and suffering; $900,000 for future medical care; $200,000 for lost health insurance benefits
Case Summary: The plaintiff, iron worker Dennis Cioffi (Cioffi) tripped and fell on debris while carrying planking at an American Airlines terminal at JFK airport, sustaining an annular tear of his disc at L5-S1.
Annular tears are a type of spinal injury that can occur in various accidents, causing pain and discomfort for individuals. Here are some common types of accidents that can result in annular tear injuries:
Car Accidents: High-impact collisions or sudden jerks during car accidents can exert significant force on the spinal discs, leading to annular tears. The rapid acceleration and deceleration motions can cause the outer fibers of the intervertebral discs to tear.
Slip and Falls: Falls from heights or on slippery surfaces can result in spinal injuries, including annular tears. When an individual lands forcefully on their back or experiences a sudden impact on the spine, it can lead to tears in the annulus fibrosus—the outer ring of the spinal disc.
Work-Related Accidents: Jobs that involve heavy lifting, repetitive movements, or prolonged periods of sitting or standing can contribute to annular tear injuries. Construction workers, healthcare professionals, and individuals in physically demanding occupations are at higher risk of experiencing such injuries.
Acts of Violence: Physical assaults or acts of violence that involve direct impact to the back or spine can cause annular tears. Forceful blows or trauma to the spinal area can result in tears in the annulus fibrosus.
It is important to note that while these accidents are potential causes of annular tear injuries, individual circumstances may vary. If you have suffered an annular tear injury due to an accident caused by someone else's negligence, it is advisable to consult with an experienced New York personal injury lawyer. They can evaluate your case, gather relevant evidence, and assist you in pursuing legal recourse to seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the annular tear injury.
Factors in Determining the Value of an Annular Tear InjuryWhen determining the value of an annular tear injury, two crucial factors come into play. Firstly, the extent of the injury itself plays a significant role. The severity of the annular tear, as diagnosed by medical professionals, will be a key factor in assessing the value of the claim. Factors such as the size and location of the tear, the associated pain and limitations, the need for medical treatment, and the potential for long-term effects on the individual's quality of life will all be considered.
Secondly, the impact of the injury on the individual's daily life and ability to work is another important factor. The physical and emotional toll, loss of income, and potential future medical expenses will be taken into account when evaluating the value of the annular tear injury. This includes assessing the extent of pain and suffering, the impact on mobility and functionality, and the need for ongoing medical care or rehabilitation.
By carefully considering these two determining factors, along with other relevant aspects, an experienced personal injury attorney in New York can help individuals with annular tear injuries in New York pursue fair and just compensation to address the physical, emotional, and financial consequences resulting from their injuries.
Contact Stephen Bilkis & AssociatesWe understand the significant impact that annular tear injuries can have on individuals and their families in New York. We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to those who have suffered annular tear injuries due to the negligence of others. Our commitment is not only to secure financial recovery but also to support our clients throughout the legal process, guiding them with empathy and determination. If you or a loved one has suffered an anoxic brain injury in New York, do not hesitate to contact an experienced personal injury attorney serving New York today at 1-800-NY-NY-LAW (1-800-696-9529) to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case. We represent clients in the following locations: Manhattan, Nassau County, Queens, Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Staten Island, Suffolk County, and Westchester County.