Our spinal cords are integral to everyday life, serving as a highway for signals to travel back and forth between our brains and various parts of the body. It allows us to move around, feel sensations from the outside world, and tell when something is hot or cold. When the spinal cord is damaged in an accident, these signals are interrupted, causing anything from numbness to an inability to move a body part, known as paralysis.
Although paralysis could be treated with intensive surgeries and rehabilitation, it is often permanent, forcing an individual to make significant adjustments to their lives. If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident, talk about your situation with a Santa Clarita paralysis injury lawyer at Swift Justice. Our dedicated catastrophic injury attorneys could provide guidance and advice on your legal options, including potential claims for financial compensation, to help you and your family.
Paralysis injuries are among the most complex types of injury. In general, paralysis can be described in two forms: paraplegia and quadriplegia. Both forms could be either incomplete or complete, depending on the severity and location of the injury itself.
Because the spinal cord is the communication highway between the brain and the body, its signals are blocked from reaching the intended body parts below the location of the damage. When the injury site is higher up the back, more parts of the body are prevented from receiving signals from the brain.
Paraplegia is paralysis of the lower body, typically impacting the legs and feet, with the damage usually located in the lower back around the waist area. Quadriplegia—also called tetraplegia—is paralysis of all four limbs, which happens when the injury is located higher up the spine, closer to the head and neck area.
Incomplete paraplegia or quadriplegia paralysis occurs when the spinal cord retains some connection with the body, allowing its signals to travel to their destination. Those affected in this way can still feel and move their body below the injury but without the same strength or ease as before. In contrast, complete paralysis occurs when the damage is so severe that the connection has been totally severed, leaving no functionality below the injury.
Individuals who have been injured in this manner face significant challenges that go beyond immobility, and it is vital to seek advice from a Santa Clarita attorney. An experienced lawyer could review the situation and provide guidance.
Paralysis injuries are usually the result of external forceful trauma strong enough to cause damage to the spinal cord. Car accidents, slipping and falling, gunshots, and other acts of violence all pose a real risk of causing paralysis. As such, an individual may be able to recover compensatory damages from the party responsible for causing their injury.
This could include compensation for:
Compensation for mental anguish and the loss of enjoyment of life could also be considered in a claim.
The exact amounts available vary on a case-by-case basis and largely depend on the severity of the injury. If your spinal cord has been damaged in an accident, you could find out how much your case could be worth by discussing it with a knowledgeable Santa Clarita attorney.
It is understandable if you feel unsure about what to do next after an accident where you lose the ability to function normally. A Santa Clarita paralysis injury lawyer at Swift Justice could help you understand your legal options. Contact us today to discuss your eligibility for financial compensation that could help you and your family during this challenging time.
Fax: