A spinal cord injury can be life-altering. Many victims experience permanent loss of sensation and function of the arms and/or legs and may be unable to function independently. The need for lifelong medical care and assistance can become a physical, emotional and financial burden. If you or a loved one has sustained a spinal cord injury that was caused by another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to significant compensation.
J&Y Law fights for the rights of spinal cord injury victims throughout the state of California. Our personal injury attorneys have the knowledge and skills that are essential for handling these types of claims. We have a proven history of achieving successful outcomes inside or outside of the courtroom, having recovered millions of dollars in damages for our clients. When you consult us, we will help you receive the medical care you need and the compensation you deserve.
What is a spinal cord injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord, nerves in the spinal canal, vertebrae, ligaments, or disks are damaged. When a blow to the spine or a violent wound severs the spinal cord, bleeding, swelling and fluid build-up in the spinal cord. If nerve fibers in the spinal column are damaged, muscles and nerves below the injured area will likely be impaired.
A severe injury can lead to paralysis while a less serious injury may result in partial loss of movement and sensation in the arms, legs, hands, and feet. An injury in the neck area can impact arm mobility and also impair the victim’s ability to breathe. Finally, an injury to the chest or lower back can affect the torso, legs, bladder, bowel function and sexual function.
Although spinal cord injuries are typically irreversible, promising new treatments are being developed. Advances in medicine and assistive devices can help victims recover a degree of mobility. Despite these advances, spinal cord injuries will have lasting repercussions for injury victims and their loved ones.
Leading Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in California
Spinal cord injuries are typically caused by:
- Automobile accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Slips and falls
- Workplace accidents
- Sports injuries
- Swimming pool injuries
- Violent crimes (gunshot wounds, knife wounds)
A spinal cord injury victim will likely require hospitalization, immediate medical treatment, and frequent monitoring to avoid further complications.
Symptoms
Spinal cord injuries are classified by the degree to which the victim can no longer control his or her limbs. In a complete spinal cord injury, the victim loses all feeling and ability to control movement below the injury. By contrast, in an incomplete spinal cord injury, the victim will retain a degree of motor and sensory function below the affected area.
Symptoms often include:
- Loss of movement
- Loss of sensation
- Pain or intense stinging sensations
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Changes in sexual function
- Extreme back pain
- Pressure in the neck, head or back
- Weakness, lack of coordination or paralysis in any part of the body
- Difficulty balancing and walking
- Twisting of the neck or back
Long Term Consequences
Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis: quadriplegia occurs when the arms, hands, legs, trunk and pelvic organs are all impacted, while paralysis to all or part of the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs is known as paraplegia.
Victims typically require ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, and rehabilitation as well as assistive devices such as wheelchairs and walkers. Adjusting to these changes can be difficult and many victims find it challenging to care for themselves. Loss of independence can also lead to emotional burdens ranging from low self-esteem to mood and behavioral problems. While victims bear the brunt of spinal cord injuries, loved ones who are suddenly thrust into the role of caregiver will also be affected. The best way for spinal cord injury victims and their families to find justice is to consult an experienced personal injury attorney.
Contact Our Los Angeles Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
At J&Y Law, we believe that no one should be forced to suffer a spinal cord injury due to another’s negligence. When you become our client, we will work tirelessly to help you obtain the compensation that considers all your medical and financial needs. Damages you may be able to recover include:
- Lost and future earnings
- Medical expenses
- Cost of long-term care
- Rehabilitation
- Assistive devices (e.g. braces, crutches, wheelchairs)
- Required modifications to your residence.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, you may be frightened and not know where to turn. Remember, we are here to help. Please contact our office today for a free evaluation of your case.