Introduction
Sustaining a spinal cord injury can be life-changing, affecting everything from mobility to independence and quality of life. In addition to the emotional and physical toll, spinal cord injuries often lead to substantial medical bills and ongoing care needs. If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation. This guide covers what you need to know about spinal cord injury claims, so you can focus on recovery while understanding your options for justice.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when damage to the spinal cord disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. This can result in partial or complete loss of sensation, movement, or control over body functions below the injury site. SCIs are categorized as either complete, where there is no function below the injury level, or incomplete, where some function remains.
For a detailed breakdown of spinal cord injury types and symptoms, see this resource from the Mayo Clinic.
Factors That Affect the Value of a Spinal Cord Injury Claim
Determining the value of a spinal cord injury claim involves several factors, each of which plays a role in establishing fair compensation. Let’s take a closer look at these essential elements.
1. Medical Expenses and Future Treatment Costs
Medical expenses are often the largest component of a spinal cord injury claim. In addition to initial treatments, surgeries, and hospitalization, compensation can cover long-term costs such as rehabilitation, in-home care, assistive devices, and medications. Because many SCI cases involve lifelong care, future treatment costs play a significant role in determining the claim’s value.
For further information on medical care for spinal injuries, visit the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation’s resources.
2. Lost Wages and Future Earning Capacity
A spinal cord injury can impact your ability to work, either temporarily or permanently. If your injury affects your current income or limits your career prospects, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity. Calculating these losses includes factors such as age, occupation, and future earning potential.
The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC) offers statistical insights into how SCIs impact employment and earning potential.
3. Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering are considered non-economic damages and often cover the physical and emotional pain resulting from the injury. Compensation for pain and suffering is usually calculated based on the severity of the injury and how it impacts your quality of life. For instance, losing mobility or independence can lead to significant emotional distress, depression, and anxiety.
For more on non-economic damages, check out FindLaw’s guide on pain and suffering damages.
4. Loss of Consortium
Spinal cord injuries don’t just affect the injured person; they impact their family and loved ones as well. Loss of consortium is a legal term that refers to the loss of companionship, support, and affection experienced by a spouse or family members. This type of claim is often included in SCI cases to address the emotional toll on relationships.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Given the complexity of spinal cord injury cases, consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer can make a significant difference. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure that all damages are accounted for, from medical expenses to emotional suffering. A spinal cord injury lawyer understands the challenges of SCI cases and will advocate for fair compensation that reflects the true impact of your injury.
If you’re ready to discuss your options, contact our team for a free consultation to learn how we can support your case.
Final Thoughts
Spinal cord injuries are incredibly challenging, both physically and emotionally. But knowing your rights and understanding the claims process can help you secure the compensation you need to manage long-term care and regain some stability. Our team is here to help you every step of the way, ensuring your case is handled with the expertise it deserves. Reach out today for a free consultation to start your journey to recovery and justice.
To learn more about how we can help you, give us a call at (888)333-9833 to request a free lawyer consultation.
