The spinal cord-while protected by the vertebra of your spine-is a sensitive area that can be easily damaged. While the vertebrae serve as stability and protection, they can also be the cause of the damage. When the vertebrae are fractured, bone fragments can tear or sever the soft tissues of the spinal cord. The discs between vertebra can also damage the cord, causing spinal cord injuries.Car accidents are the most common cause of spinal cord injuries. The sudden impact to your vehicle causes the body to tense and be jarred in an unnatural manner. This can at the very least cause bruising of the spinal cord, which leads to swelling and potential paralysis. If you are ejected from the vehicle, the impact with the pavement can also cause fractures and damage to your spine.Impact accidents such as slip-and-falls are also common reasons for spinal cord injuries. Trauma to the vertebra can lead to slipped discs, which can bruise or tear into the spinal cord. When the spine twists in an unnatural way, tearing is more prevalent.You can learn more about spinal cord injuries by visiting our article library. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, a Chicago personal injury attorney can help you determine if you can file an Illinois personal injury claim. The Law Offices of Barry G. Doyle, P.C. are ready to help your case with a free evaluation – (312) 263-1080