Wichita Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

The types of spinal cord injuries vary depending on the severity and location of the damage. A complete injury occurs when all sensation and motor functions below the injury are lost. An injury is incomplete when there is still some sensory or motor function below the injured area.

The location of a spinal cord injury may determine its severity. Spinal cord injuries can be classified by which area of the body is paralyzed, such as the following:

• Hemiplegia — This is paralysis occurring on the same side of the body. For example, paralysis of the right arm and right leg is hemiplegia.
• Monoplegia — Loss of mobility in one limb is referred to as monoplegia.
• Paraplegia — Paraplegia is the loss of function in the legs and lower portion of the body.
• Quadriplegia — Paralysis that impacts all four limbs is quadriplegia. People with quadriplegia generally lose control of the arms, legs, and torso and have little to no feeling below the neck or chest.

Treatment for a Spinal Cord Injury

The treatment for a spinal cord injury will vary depending on the severity of the injury. A medical professional will assess the damage using diagnostic tests such as a CT scan or MRI. If vertebrae in the spine are broken, they may need to stabilize the bones to prevent further injury to the spinal cord. Severe breaks may require surgical intervention and metal pins, screws, and rods to support the spine. Patients may need surgery to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Medication like corticosteroids may also help.

However, surgery and medical treatment cannot reconnect the nerves if the spinal cord is completely severed. Depending on the location of the injury, a person may need a mechanical ventilator, feeding tube, or bladder catheter as components of their continued treatment and care.

The body may be able to heal an incomplete injury over time. With patience, rehabilitation, and physical therapy, a person may regain movement and sensation in the extremities impacted by the injury.

What Accidents Can Cause a Spinal Cord Injury?

Our Wichita spinal cord injury attorneys see a variety of accidents leading to these severe injuries. Accidents that have the potential to cause significant spinal cord injuries include:

• Car accidents
• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Slip and fall accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Sports injuries
• Violent encounters and assault

Who Can Be Liable for a Spine Injury?

Typically, the person that caused the accident that led to the injury is liable for its consequences. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, you might be able to pursue compensation from any of the following parties:

• An at-fault driver in a car accident
• A property owner who doesn’t fix a hazardous condition
• A surgeon who commits medical malpractice
• Your employer’s workers’ compensation insurer

However, you may have to prove that the at-fault party was negligent. A spinal injury attorney can review your case, determine any responsible parties, secure evidence to support your claim, and demand compensation for your losses.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit?

A personal injury lawsuit may be your best chance to seek compensation for your spinal cord injuries. While the value of every case varies, you can typically pursue the following compensation in a spinal cord injury lawsuit:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Costs of in-home healthcare
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Pain and suffering