Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer McKinney, TX
A spinal cord injury may disrupt every aspect of life, affecting not just the injured person but also their family. These injuries often bring changes to daily routines and create emotional, physical, and financial strain. Mobility restrictions, loss of independence, and the need for rehabilitation therapies may demand significant time and resources.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out. Dale R. Rose, PLLC, stands ready to represent spinal cord injury victims. We handle personal injury cases with a focus on securing compensation for those harmed by negligence. These injuries often result in lifelong challenges, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and loss of income.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are caused by various factors, including traumatic incidents such as car accidents, falls, sports injuries, and violence. These injuries may result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to a loss of function, mobility, and sensation below the point of injury. The severity of the injury may range from mild, where some function remains, to complete paralysis, where there is no function at all.
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Spinal cord injuries often stem from motor vehicle accidents, especially high-speed collisions. These events may cause severe trauma to the spinal cord. Negligent actions, such as distracted driving or driving under the influence, often worsen these incidents and result in life-altering injuries.
Workplace and Recreational Incidents
Workplace accidents, particularly in high-risk professions like construction, contribute significantly to spinal cord injuries. Falls from heights and incidents involving heavy machinery are frequent hazards. Recreational activities, such as diving and extreme sports, may also lead to spinal injuries, underscoring the importance of safety precautions. Identifying the cause of your injury helps determine whether you have a valid claim for compensation.
Trauma
Other common causes of spinal cord injuries include slips and falls, sports injuries, and acts of violence. These incidents may result in severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and other life-altering consequences. Slips and falls are particularly dangerous for older adults, whose bones may be more fragile due to conditions like osteoporosis. Even a seemingly minor fall may result in serious spinal cord damage.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
The effects of spinal cord injuries are profound and may lead to a range of complications, including chronic pain, respiratory issues, bladder and bowel dysfunction, and pressure sores. Rehabilitation and therapy are critical components of recovery, focusing on maximizing remaining function, adapting to new ways of performing daily activities, and improving quality of life.
There are different types of spinal cord injuries, including:
Complete vs. Incomplete Injuries
Spinal cord injuries fall into two categories: complete and incomplete. Complete injuries result in total loss of function below the affected area, causing permanent paralysis. Incomplete injuries allow for varying degrees of motor or sensory function, which differ from person to person. The type of injury heavily influences recovery prospects.
Injury Locations and Their Impact
The location of the injury affects different areas of the body. Cervical injuries often cause quadriplegia, affecting all four limbs, while thoracic injuries may result in paraplegia, impacting the lower body. Proper classification helps guide medical treatment, rehabilitation plans, and discussions with an attorney about compensation.
Recoverable Compensation
A spinal cord injury lawyer will help you recover compensation for various damages related to your injury. These may include:
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover tangible losses caused by the injury. These include medical expenses, lost wages, and costs for rehabilitation or long-term care. In addition to these immediate costs, economic damages may also encompass future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, property damage, home modifications, and vocational rehabilitation.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These losses are not easily quantifiable but may significantly affect a claim’s value. A skilled attorney will ensure these damages are effectively communicated to maximize compensation.
When pursuing a claim that includes non-economic damages, it’s crucial to document and present evidence that illustrates the extent of the impact on the claimant’s life. This can include medical records, psychological evaluations, testimonies from friends and family, and sometimes even expert witnesses who will speak to the emotional and psychological toll of the injury or incident.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages aim to punish egregious negligence and deter similar behavior. Courts may award these damages in cases involving extreme recklessness, such as accidents caused by drunk drivers. Texas law sets specific standards and caps for punitive damages, requiring clear evidence to support such claims.
How a Lawyer Helps Spinal Cord Injury Victims
There are many ways that a spinal cord injury lawyer may help:
Building a Strong Case
An experienced spinal cord injury attorney gathers evidence, files necessary paperwork, and negotiates with insurance companies on your behalf. They provide guidance throughout the legal process, allowing you to focus on recovery while ensuring your rights are protected.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance adjusters often attempt to minimize payouts. A lawyer may counter low offers and present evidence to secure fair compensation. They handle all communications with insurers, eliminating added stress for you.
Preparing for Court
If negotiations fail, your attorney will prepare and present your case in court. This involves collecting evidence, presenting it effectively, and addressing counterarguments from the opposing party. Having skilled legal representation increases the likelihood of a favorable verdict.
Contact a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in McKinney, TX
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, Dale R. Rose offers a free consultation to review your case and discuss your legal options. Our attorneys focus on securing compensation to help you rebuild your life after an injury.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward obtaining the justice and financial recovery you need. Call Dale R. Rose at (972) 634-ROSE (7673) or use our contact form.
