Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia After Georgia Car or Truck Accidents

F.A.Q. What are Chiari malformations and syringomyelia, and how can trauma cause them?

Syringomyelia and chiari malformation and are rare spinal cord and brain disorders that can be caused, triggered or worsened by head or neck trauma in a car or truck crash. After a Georgia wreck, even one that looks minor, these conditions may explain severe headaches, dizziness, burning pain, or weakness that ordinary X‑rays and CT scans do not.

See also our information on serious injuries,  neck injuries, back injuries, brain injury, spinal cord injury, burn injuries, femur fractures, ankle fractures, eye injuries, ear injuries, amputations, leg amputation, facial scar injuries, scalp avulsion injuries, hand fracture injuries, myofascial pain injuries, foot drop, TMJ (tempormandibular joint) injuries, and asbestos and silica lung illness.

F.A.Q. How is a Chiari malformation aggravated by a Georgia auto or truck collision?

A Georgia auto or truck collision can aggravate a silent Chiari malformation by forcing part of the cerebellum downward, compressing the brainstem and spinal cord, and causing new or worse headaches, balance problems, and limb weakness. That aggravation is compensable under Georgia law if proven by medical testimony.

F.A.Q. What distinguishes post‑traumatic syringomyelia and how is it proven in litigation?

Post‑traumatic syringomyelia is a fluid‑filled cavity inside the spinal cord that develops after trauma and gradually damages nerve tissue, often years after the original injury. In Georgia litigation, it is usually proven with MRI, neurosurgeon testimony, and a clear timeline connecting the wreck to the later neurological decline.

F.A.Q. What insurance and liability issues arise in traumatic Chiari or syringomyelia cases?

Traumatic Chiari and syringomyelia cases often involve multiple insurance layers, including primary auto, commercial excess, and umbrella coverage for motor carriers, brokers, or maintenance contractors. Identifying every policy and defendant early is critical in serious brain and spinal cord injury claims in Georgia.

Johnson & Ward, established in 1949, was Atlanta’s first personal injury specialty law firm. Call today at (404)253‑7862 to schedule a free consultation. We handle car and truck accidents, falls, and serious injury claims, and we only get paid if we win.

Reviewed February 26, 2026 by:
Ken Shigley, senior counsel, former president of the State Bar of Georgia, was the first Georgia lawyer to earn three board certifications from the National Board of Trial Advocacy: Truck Accident Law, Civil Trial Practice, and Civil Pretrial Practice. He was the lead author of eleven editions of Georgia Law of Torts: Trial Preparation and Practice, and received the Traditions of Excellence Award from the State Bar of Georgia General Practice and Trial Section. B.A., Furman University; J.D., Emory University Law School; Certificates in mediation and negotiation, Harvard Law School. He began his career as an Assistant District Attorney, then worked a decade in an insurance defense firm before entering plaintiffs’ practice.

John Adkins, managing partner, experienced in personal injury law, including auto accidents, truck accidents, wrongful death, workers’ compensation, premises liability claims, dangerous or defective products, medical malpractice, and related plaintiff tort litigation. B.A., magna cum laude, Kennesaw State University; J.D., Thomas Jefferson Law School.

Ed Stone, partner, personal injury law, including truck accidents, auto accidents, wrongful death, workers’ compensation, premises liability claims, dangerous or defective products, medical malpractice, and related plaintiff tort litigation. B.B.A., Kennesaw State University; J.D., John Marshall Law School.