Spinal cord injuries are among the most catastrophic and life-altering injuries a person can suffer. These injuries often result in permanent disability, requiring extensive medical treatment and lifelong care. Victims of spinal cord injuries caused by another party's negligence deserve full and fair compensation.
Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of motor function and sensation below the injury site. This can lead to paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body) or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), depending on where the spine is damaged.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
An incomplete injury means the spinal cord is partially damaged. The victim may retain some motor function or sensation below the injury site. Recovery is possible but varies significantly depending on the severity and location of the injury.
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Falls from heights on construction sites
- Slip and fall accidents
- Sports and recreational injuries
- Acts of violence
- Medical malpractice during surgery
The True Cost of a Spinal Cord Injury
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, first-year medical costs for quadriplegia can exceed $1 million, with annual costs of over $185,000 in subsequent years.- Emergency medical treatment and surgery
- Long-term rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Adaptive equipment (wheelchairs, modified vehicles)
- Home modifications for accessibility
- In-home nursing care or assisted living
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Psychological counseling for depression and anxiety
Spinal cord injury cases often result in significant settlements or jury verdicts. Compensation may include:
- All medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
- Costs for ongoing care and adaptive equipment