A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a very devastating injury a person can suffer. Whether it’s caused by a slip and fall, a car accident, or a workplace mishap, the consequences can be life-changing. From loss of mobility to overwhelming medical expenses, spinal cord injuries not only affect victims physically but also emotionally and financially.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury is characterized by a significant damage to the spinal cord, which disrupts communication between your brain and the rest of your body. The severity of the injury varies, but it often results in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other complications.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
SCI can result from various accidents, including:
- Car and Motor Vehicle Accidents – These are the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. A high-impact collision can cause severe trauma to the spine.
- Slip and Falls – Falls, especially among older adults, can lead to severe spinal damage.
- Workplace Accidents – Industrial workplaces and construction sites pose high risks for spinal injuries.
- Medical Malpractice – Errors during surgeries or improper medical treatments can sometimes lead to SCI.
- Sports Injuries – High-contact sports like football and diving accidents can cause spinal cord damage.
Regardless of the cause, if your injury was due to another party’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. Good thing there is a spinal cord injury attorney from firms like Sweet Lawyers who can help. A skilled lawyer can ensure you receive proper medical care and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need a SCI Attorney
1. Medical bills and ongoing care are expensive
Spinal cord injury victims often suffer from extensive medical care. This includes surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term treatments. The lifetime cost of living with an SCI can range from $1.2 million to $5.1 million. An experienced attorney ensures that you receive full compensation for your medical expenses.
2. Lost income and future earning potential
Many SCI victims are unable to return to work due to their injuries. If your injury has affected your ability to earn a living, a Sweet Lawyers attorney can help recover your lost wages and even your future earning potential.
3. Insurance companies won’t offer fair compensation
Most insurance companies often try to settle for the lowest amount possible. If you don’t have an attorney, you may accept an offer that doesn’t cover all your expenses. A spinal cord injury lawyer will negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
4. Proving negligence can be difficult
To win spinal cord injury cases, you must prove that the injury is caused by another party’s negligence. This requires gathering evidence, consulting medical experts, and presenting a strong case. A lawyer has the resources and experience to handle this process.
5. Compensation beyond medical bills
Apart from medical bills, a spinal cord injury attorney will ensure that you receive compensation also for:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Home modifications (wheelchair ramps, special beds, etc.)
- Caregiver expenses
- Loss of enjoyment of life
6. Statute of Limitations
Every state has a time limit (statute of limitations) for filing personal injury claims. If you miss the deadline, you lose your right to seek compensation. A lawyer ensures all paperwork is filed on time.
How an Injury Lawyer Can Help
1) Case evaluation and legal advice
A spinal cord injury attorney will review your case. After that, they will enumerate and explain your legal rights and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to.
2) Gathering evidence
Your attorney will collect crucial evidence, such as:
- Medical records
- Accident reports
- Witness statements
- Expert testimony
3) Negotiating with insurance companies
Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements. Your lawyer will handle all negotiations and fight for the maximum compensation possible.
4) Filing a lawsuit if necessary
If you can’t receive a fair settlement from the insurance company, a spinal cord injury lawsuit can be filed in court.
5) Providing peace of mind
Dealing with an SCI is stressful enough. Hiring a spinal cord attorney allows you to focus on your full recovery, knowing that an expert is handling your legal matters.
What to Do After a Spinal Cord Injury
- Seek immediate medical attention. Your health comes first. Even if you don’t feel severe pain, get checked by a doctor.
- Document everything. Take photos of the accident scene, keep medical records, and document how the injury impacts your daily life.
- Do not accept an early settlement. Insurance companies may offer a quick payout, but it’s often far less than what you deserve.
- Contact a spinal cord injury attorney. The sooner you get expert legal help, the stronger your case will be.
Conclusion
Severe injuries like spinal cord injuries are experiences that will change your life forever, but you don’t have to face them alone. By hiring a legal professional, you give yourself the best chance at financial recovery and justice.
As soon as spinal cord injuries occur due to an accident, don’t wait—consult an attorney today.
