Your spinal column transmits messages along nerve cells to the brain and throughout your body, allowing you to move your arms and legs. Any damage to your spinal cord is devastating because it interrupts those commands. Spinal cord injury survivors may have to process a lifetime of care, lost income and earning capacity, and long-lasting pain. If somebody else commits a reckless act that contributed to the injuries, these losses can be even more frustrating.
During these challenging times, it can be hard to even imagine dealing with a legal battle for compensation. Fortunately, you do not have to handle this process alone. A compassionate catastrophic injury attorney could pursue the compensation you need to move forward comfortably. A Marion spinal cord injury lawyer at Whetstone Perkins & Fulda could help determine who caused an accident and hold them accountable.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are always severe, as they can cause someone to lose feeling and mobility in parts of their body. Unfortunately, the spine is vulnerable to damage in a wide range of circumstances in daily life. People commonly suffer spinal cord injuries in the following circumstances:
- Contact sports, professional and school-related
- Construction site accidents
- Slip and fall mishaps
- Car accidents
- Motorcycle accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Intentional criminal acts
Whenever someone believes they have suffered any kind of damage to their spine, they should seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If a spinal cord injury results from another person’s negligence, the injured party has the right to seek compensation through an injury claim. An experienced Marion attorney could review all evidence, including witness testimonies and medical records, to determine who might be liable for providing compensation after a specific spinal cord injury.
Recoverable Damages in a Spinal Cord Injury Claim
To prevail in court, the plaintiff’s attorney must prove the defendant acted below the standards of a reasonable person in the same situation, the irresponsible actions caused the accident, and the plaintiff suffered an SCI because of the defendant’s acts. If a plaintiff successfully demonstrates these elements of negligence in court, they could be eligible for economic damages such as medical costs, specialized equipment, and lost wages.
Non-economic damages could also be available in these cases. Spinal cord injuries often result in long-term pain that even modern medicine can only do so much to treat. A dedicated Marion attorney understands how important it is to receive compensation and accountability for pain and suffering in spinal cord injury claims.
Finally, if the defendant acts willfully or intentionally to hurt someone, the court may award punitive damages. Courts use punitive damages to punish wrongdoers and dissuade others from committing similar acts. However, courts also cap these damages. The best way to know what damages could be available in a specific case is to schedule a consultation with a knowledgeable attorney.
A Marion Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Could Advocate for You
Head, neck, and back injuries that cause spinal cord damage often require substantial, long-term changes to someone’s life. You should not isolate yourself after an accident damaging your spinal cord.
If another person puts you or your loved one in this position, we could pursue the compensation you deserve. While you focus on recovering and adjusting to your new life, a Marion spinal cord injury lawyer could fight on your behalf. Call now to learn more.
