Neck injury not workman's comp

[NewEnglandRN, RN]

Hi there,

I was recently in a car accident, hit head-on by an 18-year-old talking on her cell phone. I was driving to work in the AM for my third day of orientation at my new job.

I have two herniated discs in my neck that will possibly require surgery. I will be out of work for at least 6 more weeks; if I have to have surgery, I can add another 6-12 weeks to that recovery time.

My car is a total-loss. I do not have STD or LTD because I was just starting this position. How can I possibly afford my mortgage payment, not to mention feed my children, etc. I feel so overwhelmed right now.

My new employer informed me last week that they have filled my position but hope I can come back in some capacity in the future.

I am so afraid I am going to lose my house and employability because of this. Any advice?

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

We can't give legal advice so my best advice is to contact an injury claim's lawyer and go after the other driver or the owner of that vehicle. I'm so sorry this is happening.

[NewEnglandRN, RN]

I'm sorry, I am not looking for legal advice... I just needed to vent

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

Not a problem then...vent away!

[Babs0512]

I have two herniated cervical discs and three bulging cervical discs, with pressure on my spinal chord. This happened over time, not as a result of an accident. I have chronic pain down my left arm. I can't afford surgery, I would lose my house, so for me cervical pain blocks work as does PT and occasionally a Vicoden or two. Mostly, I've just learned to live with it.

Good luck to you

Blessings

[NewEnglandRN, RN]

Thanks Babs.

I had an epidural steroid injection done on Friday and am hoping that will kick-in soon.

Cell phones should be banned while driving!

[Babs0512]

I hope the cervical block helps - and cell phone are illegal while driving in my neck of the woods!!

Blessings

Babs