Living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can be draining and cause life-altering changes. It is essential to understand your legal rights if you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Riverside.
Navigating the legal process can be tricky and time-consuming. From gathering the evidence to filling out the paperwork, the process can be overwhelming and stressful. Thankfully, you do not have to endure it alone.
It is in your best interests to seek representation from an experienced Riverside spinal cord injury lawyer who understands how to build a case for maximum compensation.
At The JLF Firm, we have decades of combined experience handling catastrophic injury cases in Riverside. We are passionate about helping individuals and families affected by spine injuries get the justice they deserve for their suffering. We prioritize our client’s best interests, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
Do not suffer silently; contact us now to schedule a free case review.
How Do Spinal Cord Injuries Occur?
Spinal cord injuries often cause direct damage to the spinal cord or its protective covering, leading to permanent physical and mental impairment. Here is a breakdown of a few accidents that can cause these traumatic injuries:
- Auto accidents: When two vehicles collide, the force of the impact can cause severe damage to the spine.
- Slip and falls: Falls from significant heights or due to hazardous conditions can lead to spinal cord injuries.
- Medical malpractice and birth injury negligence: A medical professional failing to adhere to the standard of care can lead to spinal cord injuries.
What Are the Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries?
The symptoms of a spinal cord injury vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Some common signs include:
- Loss of sensation or movement in affected limbs
- Chronic pain, especially in the back, neck, and head
- Difficulty with balance or coordination
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Difficulty breathing
Do Spinal Cord Injuries Ever Heal? (Treatment Options)
So far, research for the cure of spinal cord injuries has proven to be extremely promising. Unfortunately, there is still no proven way to restore the functionality of the spinal cord after an accident.
However, several treatments are available to help manage the symptoms and improve the overall quality of life for those affected. Physical therapy, medications, assistive devices, and other strategies can help individuals with spinal cord injuries live as independently as possible.
The Ongoing Costs of SCIs
The costs associated with spinal cord injuries are often excessive and can take years to pay off. But some are never-ending, and you may have to incur them for a lifetime. These include:
- Future medical expenses: You need to pay for regular doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and other treatments.
- Ongoing care costs: If you require help with everyday activities, you must factor in the costs of a paid caretaker or assisted living facility.
- Lost earning capacity: In most cases, spinal cord injuries prevent people from returning to their jobs—meaning less earning potential for years to come.
- Assistive technology: Assistive devices like wheelchairs, lifts, and ramps are prone to wear and tear over time and may need ongoing replacements.
- Life changes: You may need to modify your home or purchase a special vehicle equipped with hand controls—both of which come at a price.
How Do You Demonstrate Liability for a Spinal Cord Injury?
To be eligible for compensation for your damages, you must prove that someone else is liable for a spinal cord injury. A qualified spinal cord injury attorney can help you gather evidence to prove fault. This evidence may include witness statements, medical records, police reports, and other relevant evidence.
We can also help you demonstrate liability by proving the following facts:
- Duty of care: Naturally, the person or entity at fault owed you a duty of care. That is, they had an obligation to keep you safe from harm.
- Breach of duty/negligence: You must prove that the other party failed to adhere to that standard of care and, as a result, caused your spinal cord injury.
- Causation: Your injury must be directly linked to the breach of duty for you to recover damages.
- Injury and damages: Lastly, you must prove that your injury resulted in actual damages.
Our Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys at The JLF Firm Can Help!
A qualified Riverside spinal cord injury lawyer can help you with all aspects of your case, including gathering and negotiating with the at-fault party’s insurer.
If you or a loved one suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact us at The JLF Firm today to discuss your legal options. Our experienced attorneys will use the intellectual and legal resources at our disposal to help you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
FAQs About Spinal Cord Injury Cases
What compensation can I recover for my spinal cord injury?
If you can prove liability, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and other damages.
How long does it take to settle a spinal cord injury lawsuit?
The length of the legal process depends on many factors, such as the complexity of the case, the availability of evidence, and the number of parties involved. It typically takes anywhere from several months to a year or more to settle.
