Back injuries don’t just hurt—they disrupt your ability to work, sleep, drive, and even enjoy time with your family. At Patterson Law Group, we’ve worked with countless Texans suffering from back injuries caused by someone else’s negligence.
Whether it’s a herniated disc injury from a car accident or a spinal cord injury from a fall at work, these injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care. As a dedicated injury lawyer in Fort Worth, we want to help you understand the most common causes of back injuries and what your options are for recovery, both physical and financial.
The Everyday Impact of Back Injuries
The back is a complex system of bones, muscles, discs, nerves, and ligaments. When any part of it is damaged, the consequences can be severe. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, about 80% of adults experience back pain at some point in their lives, making it one of the most common medical conditions in the United States.
But for many of our clients, it’s not a matter of just “toughing it out.” These injuries can lead to chronic pain, permanent disability, and devastating financial loss.
Let’s look at the most common causes of back injuries in Fort Worth and across Texas.
1. Car Accidents and Truck Crashes
Vehicle collisions are one of the leading causes of back injuries. The violent force of a crash can compress the spine, tear ligaments, rupture discs, or fracture vertebrae.
Rear-end collisions are especially notorious for causing herniated disc injuries and whiplash that radiates down the back. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 15,000 serious injury crashes in Texas in 2022, and many involved spine and back trauma.
Working with a Fort Worth injury lawyer is essential if you were injured in a crash. We can gather evidence, consult medical experts, and challenge insurance companies that try to minimize your injuries.
2. Workplace Accidents and Repetitive Strain
Jobs that involve lifting, bending, or standing for long periods often contribute to back injuries. Construction workers, warehouse employees, healthcare workers, and even office employees are all vulnerable. A slip while carrying materials, improper lifting technique, or repetitive motion over time can lead to herniated discs or spinal compression fractures.
Texas law requires most employers to carry workers’ compensation, but not all do. If your employer opted out or if a third party’s negligence caused your injury, we can help you file a personal injury claim. A Fort Worth spinal cord injury attorney from our team will ensure you pursue all available avenues for compensation.
3. Slip and Fall Incidents
A slip and fall might sound minor, but the impact on your back can be catastrophic. Falls often result in fractured vertebrae, muscle tears, or pinched nerves. These accidents happen on wet floors, broken sidewalks, or uneven surfaces. In Texas, property owners have a legal duty to maintain safe conditions. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for resulting injuries.
Premises liability cases can be complex. As your back injury attorney in Fort Worth, TX, we’ll investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and hold negligent property owners accountable for failing to fix or warn about hazards.
4. Sports and Recreational Accidents
Sports injuries often result in back damage, from football and basketball to skateboarding and horseback riding. While athletes may expect some risk, specific injuries occur due to preventable hazards—faulty equipment, unsafe facilities, or poor supervision. In these cases, a legal claim may be justified.
We’ve represented clients who suffered severe back injuries during school sports and recreational outings due to someone else’s negligence. If this sounds like your situation, contact a Fort Worth injury lawyer from our office for a free case review.
5. Lifting Injuries at Home or Work
Improper lifting is one of the most preventable causes of back injuries. Lifting heavy items without bending the knees or twisting at the waist can strain the spine immensely. This often leads to acute herniated disc injuries or chronic back conditions that require surgery or physical therapy.
In a personal injury claim, showing that someone failed to provide proper equipment, training, or assistance in lifting tasks can support your case. Our team builds strong claims highlighting these oversights and demonstrating how they contributed to your injury.
6. Construction and Industrial Accidents
Texas has one of the highest rates of construction site injuries in the country. Workers on ladders, scaffolding, and rooftops face significant fall risks. Falling from just six feet can cause a spinal fracture or permanent paralysis. If a fall results from a lack of fall protection or OSHA violations, that’s grounds for legal action.
A Fort Worth spinal cord injury attorney can investigate your job site, review OSHA records, and help you file a workers’ compensation and third-party liability claim if necessary.
7. Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents
When a pedestrian or cyclist is hit by a vehicle, the force of impact can cause catastrophic back injuries. Cyclists thrown from their bikes or pedestrians knocked to the ground often suffer compression fractures, herniated discs, or even severed spinal cords.
Unfortunately, drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the pedestrian or cyclist. Our Fort Worth injury lawyers will investigate the scene, gather surveillance footage, and hold negligent drivers accountable for the life-changing injuries they cause.
8. Medical Malpractice
While less common, some back injuries result from surgical errors or failed medical treatments. For example, a botched spinal surgery or poorly administered epidural can lead to permanent damage. When this occurs, the case becomes one of medical malpractice.
These cases require strong medical evidence and legal skill. We work with board-certified experts to assess your case and fight for full accountability.
9. Defective Products and Equipment
Sometimes, back injuries stem from defective products—such as poorly designed ladders, malfunctioning lifts, or faulty exercise equipment. When manufacturers fail to warn about risks or create a safe product, they can be held responsible under Texas product liability laws.
We’ve handled product-related back injury claims where defective items caused clients to fall, twist, or become crushed. If you suspect a product played a role in your injury, contact us to explore your legal options.
How Texas Law Protects Back Injury Victims
In Texas, personal injury claims for back injuries fall under the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code. Victims generally have two years from the accident date to file a lawsuit (Sec. 16.003). Failing to meet this deadline can mean losing your right to seek damages entirely.
Texas also uses a modified comparative fault rule. If you are 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your percentage of fault will reduce your award. You’re barred from recovery if you are more than 50% at fault. That’s why working with a Fort Worth injury lawyer who can push back against unfair blame tactics from insurance companies is crucial.
Understanding Herniated Disc Injuries
One of the most common back injuries we see is a herniated disc. These occur when the soft center of a spinal disc bulges or leaks out, pressing on nearby nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness that radiates down the arms or legs.
Common symptoms include:
- Shooting pain through the buttocks, legs, or shoulders
- Loss of mobility or flexibility
- Muscle weakness or spasms
- Numbness or burning sensations
Herniated discs are often caused by trauma (like car accidents or falls), but can also stem from lifting injuries or degenerative wear and tear. Treatment may include chiropractic care, epidural injections, or surgery, each of which can be expensive and time-consuming. That’s where legal help becomes vital. As your back injury attorney in Fort Worth, TX, we can fight for compensation that covers your treatment and ongoing care needs.
How We Help as Your Fort Worth Injury Lawyers
At Patterson Law Group, we treat every back injury case with the seriousness it deserves. When you hire us, we take the time to understand how the injury has impacted your life and future. Our process includes:
- Gathering medical records and imaging
- Consulting with orthopedic specialists
- Evaluating how your injury affects work and daily life
- Negotiating aggressively with insurers
- Taking your case to trial if necessary
We don’t just want a quick settlement—we want justice. That means helping you receive compensation for medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can a back injury cause long-term disability?
Yes, serious back injuries—especially those involving spinal cord damage or severe herniated discs—can lead to permanent impairment or long-term disability. Chronic pain, reduced mobility, or nerve damage can prevent victims from returning to their previous jobs or engaging in normal daily activities. If your condition is expected to last 12 months or more, you may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits and a personal injury claim.
What evidence should I gather after a back injury accident?
If you’re physically able, collect photos of the accident scene, visible injuries, and any hazards that may have caused your fall or collision. Get witness contact information and seek immediate medical attention. Your medical records will serve as crucial evidence. We also recommend keeping a journal detailing your symptoms and how the injury affects your work and lifestyle.
Is surgery always required for herniated disc injuries?
Not always. Many herniated disc injuries respond well to conservative treatment like physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or steroid injections. However, in more serious cases—especially those causing nerve compression or loss of function—surgery such as a discectomy or spinal fusion may be necessary.
Can I sue if I aggravated an old back injury?
Yes. Texas law still allows you to seek compensation if another party’s negligence worsened a preexisting back injury. You may not recover for the original injury itself, but you can pursue damages for any new symptoms, increased severity, or extended recovery time caused by the accident.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s best to speak with a Fort Worth injury lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your rights and build your case.
Get Legal Help Today
If you’re suffering from a back injury, the most crucial step is to immediately get the medical and legal support you need. At Patterson Law Group, we’re here to help you through every step of the process. From your first call to your final recovery, we’ll fight for the compensation you need to move forward.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Call our office today to speak with an experienced back injury lawyer in Fort Worth and take the first step toward justice.
