What Can You Be Compensated for in a Spinal Cord Injury Claim?

by: Kigan MAugust 23, 2024
What can you be compensated for in a spinal cord injury claim

Spinal cord injuries are life-altering events that can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else or insurance company's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Understanding what can be compensated in a spinal cord injury claim is crucial for ensuring you receive the full amount you deserve.

This compensation can help cover the extensive costs associated with your spinal cord injury lawsuits and support your recovery journey. At BAM Personal Injury Lawyers, we know that most spinal cord injuries lead to complications not just for the victim but also for their loved ones.

The impact of a spinal cord injury goes beyond immediate medical care. Long-term care, lost income, and the emotional toll of the injury are all factors that need to be considered. Filing a spinal cord injury claim can help you address these challenges and secure the resources necessary for your future well-being. - How much compensation is your spinal cord injury worth?

The Dangers of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result in permanent paralysis, loss of sensation, and other severe disabilities. These injuries take place when the spinal cord is damaged, often due to a traumatic event like a car accident or a fall. The severity of a spinal cord injury hinges on the location and severity of the damage, with injuries higher up on the spinal cord typically causing more extensive disabilities.

Spinal cord injury victims could face a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation. The physical limitations caused by spinal cord injuries can make even the most basic daily activities challenging. Beyond the physical impact, the emotional and psychological toll of living with a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming for both the spinal cord trauma victim and their family.

Common Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries can have profound and life-altering effects on a victim's body. The symptoms vary depending on the severity and location of the spinal cord injury settlements but often involve a combination of physical and sensory impairments. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early intervention and effective management.

Here are some common symptoms associated with spinal cord injuries.

  • Loss of movement. Victims may experience partial or complete loss of movement in certain parts of the body. This can range from difficulty moving limbs to complete paralysis below the injury site.
  • Loss of sensation. A spinal cord injury can lead to a loss of sensation, meaning the victim cannot feel touch, heat, or cold in the affected areas. This loss of sensation could increase the risk of secondary injuries.
  • Incontinence. Spinal cord injuries often affect bladder and bowel control, leading to incontinence. This symptom can be both physically and emotionally distressing for the victim.
  • Chronic pain. Many spinal cord injury victims suffer from chronic pain, either at the site of the injury or in other parts of the body. This pain could be debilitating and difficult to manage.
  • Difficulty breathing. Injuries to the upper spinal cord can impair the ability to breathe independently. Some victims may require ventilators or other medical devices to assist with breathing.
  • Muscle spasms. Uncontrolled muscle spasms or exaggerated reflexes are common after a spinal cord injury. These spasms can be painful and may interfere with daily activities.
  • Sexual dysfunction. Spinal cord injuries might result in sexual dysfunction, affecting both physical capability and emotional well-being. This can have a significant impact on the victim's quality of life.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result from various traumatic events, each carrying the potential to cause significant and lasting damage. Recognizing the common causes of these spinal injuries can help in understanding the risks and the need for preventive measures.

Here are some of the most frequent causes of spinal cord injuries.

  • Car accidents. Car crashes are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries. The force of a car accident could cause major trauma to the spine, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
  • Falls. Slips and falls, especially from heights, are another common cause of spinal cord injuries. Elderly individuals and those working in construction are particularly at risk for these injuries.
  • Sports injuries. Contact sports, such as football and rugby, and extreme sports, like snowboarding or diving, carry a high risk of spinal cord injuries. Protective gear can help, but accidents still occur.
  • Violent acts. Acts of violence, including gunshots and stabbings, can damage the spinal cord. These injuries are often severe and can result in life-long disabilities.
  • Medical malpractice. Surgical errors, improper handling during medical procedures, or failure to diagnose spinal issues can lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries may be grounds for a medical malpractice claim.

Long-Term Effects and Complications

Spinal cord injuries could result in long-term complications from serious injury that require ongoing medical care. These complications can include pressure sores, infections, and respiratory problems, further diminishing the victim's quality of life. The need for continuous medical care can place a major financial burden on both the victim and their loved ones.

In addition to physical complications, spinal cord injuries can lead to emotional and psychological challenges. Many victims experience depression, anxiety, and a sense of loss as they adjust to their new reality. Support from mental health professionals, along with a strong support system, is crucial for managing these emotional effects.

Forms of Compensation Available in Spinal Cord Injury Claims

Forms of compensation available in spinal cord injury claims

When filing a spinal cord injury claim, victims can seek compensation for various economic damages that have resulted from the injury. This compensation is intended to cover not only the immediate costs but also the long-term financial burdens associated with a spinal injury. Working with an experienced spinal cord injury lawyer who can help you identify all potential avenues of compensation is essential.

Medical Expenses and Future Care Costs

The medical bills tied to spinal cord injuries can be overwhelming. Compensation can cover the costs of surgeries, hospital stays, medication, and any future medical care you may need. This includes long-term care in a specialized facility or home care services that ensure you receive the attention and treatment necessary to manage your condition.

Lost Pay and Future Earning Capacity

A spinal cord injury might stop you from returning to work, either temporarily or permanently. Compensation can cover the income you have lost due to your spinal cord injury affect and any future earning potential that may be diminished. This is crucial for ensuring that you and your family can maintain financial stability despite your inability to work.

Pain and Suffering and Emotional Distress

Spinal cord injuries often come with significant pain and suffering, both physical and emotional. Compensation for pain and suffering acknowledges the serious spinal cord injury's severe impact on your quality of life. Emotional distress, including depression and anxiety, is also considered when calculating compensation.

Costs of Home Modifications and Assistive Devices

Living with a serious spinal injury or cord injury could require significant modifications to your home. Compensation can cover the costs of installing ramps, widening doorways, and making other necessary changes to accommodate your mobility needs. The cost of assistive devices like wheelchairs, specialized beds, and communication devices can also be compensated.

Rehabilitation and Therapy Expenses

Rehabilitation is a critical part of recovery for spinal cord injury victims. Compensation can pay for physical, occupational, and numerous other forms of rehabilitation that help you regain as much independence as possible. This also includes any ongoing therapy needed to manage your condition over time.

How We Maximize the Value of Your Spinal Cord Injury Claim

How we maximize the value of your spinal cord injury claim

At BAM Personal Injury Lawyers, we fight for each spinal cord injury victim. We aim to maximize the value of your spinal cord injury claim. We understand the immense impact a spinal cord injury can, pain and suffering damages can have on your life, and we strive to recover the full compensation you deserve.

Complete a Full Investigation

Our legal team completes a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding your personal injury claims. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing accident reports. We leave no stone unturned in building a strong case that supports your claim.

Review of Medical Records

We meticulously review your medical records to document the extent of your injuries and the care you've received. This helps us demonstrate the severity of your spinal cord and spinal injury claims and the long-term impact it will have on your life. Accurate medical documentation is key to securing the maximum compensation.

Deposition of Witnesses and Defendants

Taking depositions from witnesses and defendants allows us to gather crucial testimony that supports your case. We use this testimony to establish liability and refute any claims made by the opposing party. Witnesses provide firsthand accounts that can change the final result of your case.

Expert Testimony

We partner with medical experts who can share testimony on the nature and extent of your injuries. Expert testimony is crucial for explaining complex medical issues to the court. This testimony can prove your case and secure the fair compensation you deserve.

Aggressive Negotiation Skills

Our lawyers are talented negotiators who will advocate fiercely on your behalf. We fight with insurance companies and opposing counsel to reach a fair settlement. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your personal injury claim to trial. Lean on our experience in prior personal injury cases, to fight for you.

Courtroom Experience

Should your spinal cord injury lawyers case go to trial, our attorneys have the courtroom experience necessary to represent you effectively. We present a compelling case to the jury, backed by strong evidence and expert testimony. We aim to secure the best possible outcome for you in the courtroom. Let us handle your spinal cord injury case.

Contact Our Idaho Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Contact our Idaho spinal cord injury lawyer for a free case consultation

At BAM Personal Injury Lawyers, we lean on our experience in spinal cord injury cases to fight for our clients. Our spinal cord injury attorney can see if you have a valid personal injury lawsuit. A just spinal cord injury settlement should recover compensation for your lost pay, emotional distress, and medical bills. A spinal injury claim is complicated. You require an experienced legal professional who can fight for you.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your spinal cord injury lawsuit.

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