The spinal cord is the column of nerve tissue that transmits messages between the brain and the rest of the body. If the tissue is injured, it reduces or destroys the conduit used by the brain to communicate with the body resulting in loss of functionality.
The effects of an injury to the spine can be devastating and can impact every aspect of the victim & respective family's daily life. When a spinal cord injury occurs as a result of the reckless or negligent actions of another party, the injured individual may be entitled to compensation.
Common Spinal Cord Injury Causes
Damage to the spinal cord is often caused by a sudden, traumatic blow to a person's spine which fractures, dislocates, crushes or compresses the vertebrae. The most common causes of spinal cord injuries are:
- Auto accidents - 50%
- Falls - 24%
- Violent encounters - 11%
- Sports injuries - 9%
- Disease - 6%
Statistics from the Mayo Clinic.
Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuits
Victims who have been injured as a result of the reckless or negligent actions of others have the right to file a personal injury claim and recover damages. Because spinal cord injuries are among the most expensive injuries to treat, settlements and jury verdicts in these cases are often sizable.
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses – hospital, surgical, and ambulance bills
- Rehabilitation costs – physical therapy and future medical care
- Diminished earning capacity – compensation for future earnings lost due to the injury
- Lost income – payment for wages lost