According to the National Institutes of Health, more than 18,000 people in the United States suffer a spinal cord injury (SCI) each year.
These injuries often result in paralysis, chronic pain, or even death and are typically caused by trauma, such as a car crash, fall, violent act, or sports accident. When another party's negligence is to blame, legal action may be possible.
Kline & Specter, a nationally recognized personal injury law firm with more than 50 attorneys, five of whom are doctor-lawyers, the most in the nation, represents spinal cord injury victims in pursuing justice and rightful compensation.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is made up of a bundle of nerves that run from the base of the brain down the middle of the back to a point just above the waist.
There are two primary types of spinal cord injuries: complete and partial.
In complete SCIs, there is a loss of function below the point of injury, with both sides of the body usually affected. This can result in paralysis of all four limbs (quadriplegia) or the lower half of the body (paraplegia).
Victims with partial SCIs may be able to move one limb or part of the body more than the other or have more feeling on one side of their body.
It's important to note that damage to the vertebrae, the bones protecting the spinal cord, can occur without there being a spinal cord injury. The spinal cord also does not have to be severed for an injury to occur.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
The largest number of SCIs occurs in auto accidents – nearly 38%, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. Falls account for a little over 30% of the injuries, more commonly among older people. Violent incidents (shootings, assaults, etc.) account for about 13.5%, and sports injuries, nearly 9%.
Who Is Most Susceptible to Spinal Cord Injuries?
The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center reports that men suffer about 81 percent of all SCIs, with the average victim being about 42 years old.
There has been an increase in recent years in both the age of sufferers and the number of women experiencing SCIs. More research also exists on male victims compared to female victims, which may impact the data currently available.
Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often permanently change mobility, sensation, and bodily function below the level of injury. Many individuals experience:
- Chronic pain
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Difficulty with circulation or breathing
- Paralysis (partial or complete)
- Depression or anxiety
Other complications include low blood pressure, inability to regulate blood pressure, and reduced control of body temperature. SCI sufferers are also more apt to contract respiratory disease.
Long-term care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments are usually necessary for victims of SCIs. Complications may also arise years after the initial injury.
Compensation You Can Seek After a Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injury victims may be able to pursue several types of compensation. These can include:
- Medical expenses for emergency treatment, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care needs.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity, especially if the injury affects employment.
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages – if the injury resulted from reckless or malicious conduct..
Funds may also be awarded for home modifications, wheelchair accessible vans, mobility equipment, and long-term personal assistance.
Why Choose Kline & Specter?
Since its founding in 1995, Kline & Specter has achieved significant results in spinal cord injury cases, combining legal skill with in-depth medical insight. The firm has secured two $30 million settlements for children who suffered permanent injuries from a rear seat lap belt in a car accident.
With a team that includes five physician-attorneys who are uniquely qualified to understand complex medical issues, Kline & Specter provides powerful advocacy for victims nationwide. Whether the injury stems from a car crash, defective product, or unsafe premises, the firm has the resources and expertise to handle challenging spinal cord injury cases and fight for meaningful compensation.
FAQs
Can Family Members File a Claim on Behalf of Someone With a Spinal Cord Injury?
Yes, in certain circumstances, family members can file claims on behalf of someone else. This may be the case if the injured person is:
- A minor
- An adult for whom a guardian ad litem has been appointed
In cases where the injury proves fatal, eligible family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Laws vary by state, so it's important to consult an attorney familiar with your jurisdiction's rules regarding legal standing and representation.
What Role Does Insurance Play in Spinal Cord Injury Cases?
Insurance companies often provide compensation in spinal cord injury cases, whether through auto, homeowner, business liability, or health insurance policies. However, insurers may try to limit payouts or dispute liability.
How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuits?
Pain and suffering damages account for physical discomfort, emotional distress, loss of life's pleasures, humiliation, disfigurement, and the impact on a person's daily life. These damages are not based on bills or receipts.
Because these damages are subjective, documentation, expert testimony, and legal strategy play key roles in supporting your claim.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one is facing the consequences of a spinal cord injury caused by someone else's negligence, it's crucial to understand your rights and explore your legal options.
The attorneys at Kline & Specter have a strong track record of representing individuals in complex injury cases. To discuss your unique situation, call 215-772-1000 or submit our contact form.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm collaborates with local attorneys in each applicable state.
