Snellings Law PLLC attorneys are
Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers
Frisco | Dallas | Sherman
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Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are one of the most common injuries that we see in car accident victims. Whether it be whiplash type injuries, disc injuries, or even more severe spinal cord injuries causing paralysis, we have helped personal injury victims navigate their treatment and insurance claims process. What may start out as soreness and stiffness can often times develop into numbness and tingling in hands and feet.
Spinal cord injuries are often not apparent right away. We have had more clients than we can count who have left the scene of a car accident thinking they were fine, only to not be able to get out of bed the next morning or to even start developing symptoms several days later. Since back injuries can lead to a lifetime of pain or reduced motion, we take them seriously at Snellings Law.
Some of the most common types of spinal injuries we see are as follows:
Whiplash Injuries – Whiplash occurs when your neck is forcibly bent forward then backward or backward then forward.1 In the car accident scenario, this usually occurs when a driver or passenger experiences sudden acceleration (rear-impact) or sudden deceleration (frontal-impact).
Herniated, Bulged, Slipped, and Ruptured Discs – The bones in our spine are called vertebrae, and between each vertebra is a disc. These discs support and cushion the vertebrae to prevent bone grinding on bone. A herniated disc (also called bulged, slipped, or ruptured) means the interior of the disc has come through the outer layer of the disc and into the spinal canal. Since the spinal canal is a very narrow area, this fragment can push on the spinal cord causing pain, numbness, tingling, and other symptoms.
Spinal Fractures – Fractures to the vertebrae can occur anywhere along the spine. These fractures can pinch, compress, or tear the spinal cord. The most common type of fracture we see in car accident and truck accident cases are compression fractures. A sudden downward force shatters and collapses the body of the vertebrae.2 This type of fracture can throw bone fragments into the spinal canal and damage the spinal cord, which would then be called a burst fracture.
Spinal Cord Injuries – Car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in younger Americans. A complete spinal cord injury causes a total loss in all motor and sensory function below the level of the injury. An incomplete spinal cord injury leaves some function below the level of injury.3 The American Spinal Injury Association created a scale to classify the severity of the injury4:
- ASIA A – injury is complete spinal cord injury with no sensory or motor function preserved;
- ASIA B – A sensory incomplete injury with complete motor function loss;
- ASIA C – a motor incomplete injury, where there is some movement, but less than half the muscle groups are anti-gravity (can lift up against the force of gravity with a full range of motion);
- ASIA D – a motor incomplete injury with more than half of the muscle groups being anti-gravity;
- ASIA E – normal
The more severe the injury, the less likely a recovery will occur.
For more information about types of spinal cord injuries, spinal cord injury signs and symptoms, and what to do if you think you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury, check out this video.
We work with our clients to document their injuries and take our time to make sure our clients have plenty of time to navigate their treatment plan with their physicians before we even begin to think about negotiating their claims. We want to know our clients have been thoroughly diagnosed and treated with the very best care before beginning the demand process. That is the only way to ensure that we fully evaluate their claim and obtain the best possible claim result for them.
Understanding the Causes and Impacts of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries in auto accidents can occur due to sudden, blunt-force trauma. Such trauma might include the impact of a collision, the body being violently thrown around, or debris penetrating the spine. Typically, we see more severe spinal cord injuries in crashes with significant force, such as high-speed, rollover, and head-on car accidents.
In many cases, spinal cord injuries cause lifelong paralysis, forever changing the way a person lives their daily life. The impact is not just physical but emotional and financial as well, affecting both the injured individuals and their families.
What Complications Can Arise from Spinal Cord Injuries?
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can lead to a range of serious complications that significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Some common complications include:
Pressure Ulcers
Also known as bedsores, these skin injuries develop due to prolonged pressure on the skin, often affecting those who are immobile for extended periods.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Individuals with SCI may face difficulties in bladder control, leading to frequent UTIs.
Autonomic Dysreflexia
This condition involves a sudden spike in blood pressure, which can be life-threatening if not managed promptly.
Respiratory Problems
Higher levels of spinal cord injuries can impair respiratory muscles, potentially causing chronic breathing difficulties or even the need for mechanical ventilation.
Neuropathic Pain
Chronic pain resulting from nerve damage is a common and often debilitating outcome of SCI.
Spasticity
Uncontrollable muscle contractions can occur, leading to stiffness and limited mobility.
Loss of Bladder and Bowel Control
Many people with SCI experience difficulties in controlling bladder and bowel functions, necessitating medical interventions and potential lifestyle adjustments.
Sexual Dysfunction
Both men and women can experience changes in sexual function, affecting intimate relationships and overall well-being.
Mental Health Issues
The psychological impact of dealing with paralysis or reduced mobility can contribute to conditions like depression and anxiety.
Addressing these complications requires comprehensive medical care, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical interventions. Early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How can spinal cord injuries lead to depression and anxiety?
Spinal cord injuries profoundly impact both physical and mental health. For many, the sudden change in mobility and independence can lead to significant emotional distress. Adjusting to a new way of life often induces anxiety about future capabilities and limitations.
The chronic pain associated with these injuries can further deteriorate mental well-being. The persistent discomfort can make everyday tasks more challenging, leading to feelings of frustration and helplessness.
Additionally, the financial strain from lost wages due to the inability to work can heighten stress levels. Victims may struggle to support themselves, adding another layer of anxiety. Family members who step in to provide care often face their own emotional and financial burdens, potentially resulting in a household-wide increase in stress and anxiety.
Together, these factors create a perfect storm where depression and anxiety can take hold, compounding the challenges that spinal cord injury victims face every day.
How Can a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Help Alleviate Financial Burdens?
A spinal cord injury lawyer can play a critical role in alleviating financial burdens caused by your injury. Here’s how:
Evaluating Your Case
First, a lawyer will evaluate the specifics of your injury and determine its financial impact. They will examine medical records, incident reports, and financial documents to understand the full scope of your losses.
Filing Claims
Once the evaluation is complete, the personal injury lawyer will assist you in filing claims for compensation. This could include:
- Medical Expenses: Covering hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments.
- Rehabilitation Costs: Ensuring you receive compensation for physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any necessary adaptive equipment.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for past and future income lost due to your inability to work.
- Pain and Suffering: Providing financial relief for the emotional and physical pain endured.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often offer settlements that are far below what you deserve. A skilled spinal cord injury lawyer will negotiate with these companies to secure a fair settlement that covers your expenses and losses.
Pursuing Litigation if Necessary
If negotiations fail, the lawyer can take your case to court. They will represent you, present evidence, and advocate for your rightful compensation.
Benefits of Legal Representation
- Wealth of Knowledge: Lawyers understand the complexities of spinal cord injury cases and how to maximize your compensation.
- No Upfront Costs: Many operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.
- Peace of Mind: Legal representation allows you to focus on your recovery while professionals handle the legal complexities.
By hiring a spinal cord injury lawyer, you gain a committed advocate who fights to ensure you receive the financial support needed to move forward with your life.
Why Consult an Attorney if You're Unsure About Legal Action?
Considering all Options
When you’re involved in an accident, it’s normal to feel uncertain about the next steps, especially when legal action is involved. Consulting an attorney can clarify your situation and help you weigh your options without any immediate pressure.
No Risk, Just Information
Many attorneys offer free consultations, meaning you can gain valuable insights without financial commitment. This opportunity allows you to ask questions and understand potential legal avenues before deciding on the best action.
Confidentiality Assured
Discussions with lawyers are strictly confidential. This will put your worries about privacy to rest, enabling you to talk openly about your concerns, the details of the incident, and any potential compensation you might be entitled to.
Empower Yourself and Your Family
Gathering information is empowering. Consulting with an attorney can secure advice crucial for your recovery and future well-being. You and your family deserve to be fully informed about all the options available to you.
Take Control of Your Situation
Scheduling a consultation puts you in control. You’re not committing to anything other than exploring your rights and potential actions. This step can provide peace of mind and enable you to make informed decisions.
In essence, talking to an attorney offers numerous benefits without drawbacks. It’s an opportunity to gain a clear understanding of your situation, all within a confidential and risk-free environment.
How a Spinal Cord Injury Can Impact Employment
A spinal cord injury can drastically alter an individual’s ability to work. Here’s how:
Physical Limitations
Spinal cord injuries often lead to mobility issues, reducing the ability to perform physical tasks. This can include everything from lifting heavy objects to simply moving around the workplace. Sometimes, even desk jobs become challenging if the injury affects upper body strength or dexterity.
Mental Health Challenges
The emotional toll of a spinal cord injury is significant. Many individuals suffer from depression and anxiety, worsening the overall ability to focus and perform tasks efficiently. These mental health issues are often a direct result of the injury and the subsequent lifestyle changes, making it hard to maintain a productive work environment.
Indirect Financial Implications
Spinal cord injuries can lead to substantial indirect financial consequences:
- Lost wages: If one cannot perform their job effectively, the likelihood of reduced hours or job loss increases.
- Caregiver involvement: Family members who help care for the injured person frequently find it challenging to maintain their full-time jobs, leading to a loss of household income.
Adaptation and Accommodation
Workplaces must often be adapted to meet the needs of spinal cord injury victims. This could mean anything from installing ramps and accessible restrooms to providing specialized equipment like voice-activated computers. While such adjustments are essential, they can also be costly and time-consuming.
In summary, spinal cord injuries affect more than just the physical body. They bring about many challenges that can severely impact a person’s ability to work directly and indirectly.
What are the Financial Impacts of Spinal Cord Injuries?
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) rank among the most financially draining health conditions one can encounter. These injuries typically require significant medical interventions, which start with costly surgeries and can extend to prolonged hospital stays and intensive physical therapy.
Immediate and Ongoing Costs
- Surgeries and Hospitalization: The initial phase often involves multiple surgeries and extended hospitalizations, which can result in substantial medical bills.
- Rehabilitation: Post-hospitalization, spinal cord injury victims usually need extensive physical therapy to regain as much function as possible, which adds another layer of expense.
- In-Home Care: Many individuals necessitate ongoing in-home assistance, and hiring nurses or caregivers to manage daily activities further strains financial resources.
Long-Term Financial Burden
For severe injuries, the financial impact doesn’t end with initial treatments:
- Lifelong Care: Spinal cord injury victims frequently face a lifetime of medical expenses, from routine check-ups to managing chronic pain or complications.
- Complications: Common complications, such as pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and high blood pressure, further increase medical expenses over time.
Indirect Costs
The financial impact extends beyond direct medical costs:
- Lost Wages: Most SCI victims experience reduced or lost income, given the limited employment opportunities during recovery.
- Home Modifications: Many homes require modifications, such as ramps and accessible bathrooms, to accommodate the needs of someone with SCI.
In summary, the financial toll of spinal cord injuries is profound, encompassing immediate, long-term, and indirect costs. These burdens highlight the critical need for comprehensive insurance and support systems for those affected.
Indirect Financial Consequences of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can have profound indirect financial impacts. One of the primary consequences is the loss of wages. Individuals suffering from such injuries often find themselves unable to perform their job duties as they once could, which can make sustaining an income challenging.
Family members who step up to care for the injured person may also face financial strain. Balancing caregiving responsibilities with maintaining a full-time job can be incredibly difficult, potentially leading to reduced work hours or even job loss.
Moreover, the emotional toll of dealing with a spinal cord injury often leads to mental health issues like depression and anxiety. This can further impact a person’s ability to work effectively and consistently, compounding the financial difficulties.
Key Points:
- Loss of Wages: Reduced ability to work impacts earning potential.
- Caregiving Strain: Family members may struggle to maintain employment.
- Mental Health Costs: Emotional challenges can exacerbate financial woes.
What medical care and assistance might be required for spinal cord injury victims?
Treatment for spinal cord injuries often involves immediate emergency care followed by ongoing rehabilitation. This might include surgery, medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive treatments.
Victims of spinal cord injuries frequently require extensive medical care. This often involves expensive surgeries and prolonged hospitalization. Beyond the initial treatments, physical therapy becomes essential for recovery, and many patients need ongoing in-home assistance from nurses to help manage daily activities.
The financial burden of these treatments can be overwhelming and, in severe cases, may persist for the rest of the victim’s life. As if this weren’t enough, complications such as pressure sores, urinary tract infections, and high blood pressure can arise, further escalating medical costs and the need for specialized care.
Understanding the comprehensive medical and financial implications is crucial for spinal cord injury victims and their families, guiding them in seeking appropriate support and resources.
What Steps Will a Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Take to Investigate an Incident?
When dealing with a spinal cord injury case, a spinal cord injury attorney follows a comprehensive approach to ensure every detail is uncovered.
1. Initial Consultation and Case Review
- The process begins with an in-depth consultation to understand the circumstances surrounding the injury.
- The attorney will review medical records, accident reports, and any available witness statements.
2. Gathering Evidence
- Scene Investigation: Visiting the incident location to gather physical evidence and take photographs.
- Interviewing Witnesses: Conduct thorough interviews with witnesses to get firsthand accounts of the incident.
- Surveillance Footage: If available, obtain and review any surveillance footage that may have captured the event.
3. Collaborating with Experts
- Medical Experts: Consult with medical professionals to understand the extent and impact of your injuries.
- Accident Reconstruction Specialists: Bringing experts to recreate the incident to determine fault.
4. Reviewing Legal Documents and Reports
Scrutinizing police reports, safety logs, and any regulations or codes that may have been violated.
5. Communication with Insurance Companies
- Handling all interactions with insurance adjusters to ensure nothing you say can be used against you.
- Reviewing and negotiating insurance claims to seek a fair settlement.
6. Comprehensive Legal Strategy
- Developing a tailored legal strategy based on the gathered evidence and expert analyses.
- Preparing for trial, if necessary, to present a strong case in court.
7. Regular Updates and Consultations
Keeping you informed throughout the process, with regular updates and consultations to discuss any new developments or decisions.
Following these meticulous steps, a spinal cord injury attorney ensures that no stone is left unturned in building a solid case for you.
What types of cases do Snellings Law’s personal injury attorneys handle, such as bicycle accidents or child injuries?
Snellings Law’s personal injury attorneys handle a broad range of case types to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. Their experience covers numerous situations, ensuring comprehensive legal support for various incidents. Here are some of the key types of personal injury cases they manage:
Vehicle-Related Accidents
- Bicycle Accidents: Whether due to negligent drivers, hazardous road conditions, or defective bicycle components.
- Bus Accidents: Incidents involving private transportation services.
- Car Accidents: The most common, often involving distracted or impaired driving.
- Motorcycle Accidents: High risk due to less protection compared to cars.
- Truck Accidents: Frequently resulting in severe injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles.
Personal and Unintentional Injuries
- Traumatic Brain Injury: Often resulting from substantial impacts in accidents or falls.
- Catastrophic Injury: Severe injuries that have long-term or permanent effects.
- Child Injury: Special cases involving minors requiring meticulous handling due to their unique legal considerations.
Specific-Scenario Injuries
- Dangerous Drugs: Cases involving adverse effects from prescribed medications.
- Neck Injury: Typically arising from rear-end collisions or falls.
- Pedestrian Accidents: Incidents where pedestrians are struck by vehicles due to driver negligence.
Premises and Product Liability
- Premises Liability: Injuries sustained on someone else’s property due to unsafe conditions.
- Product Liability: Claims arising from defective or dangerous products causing harm.
Severe and Fatal Cases
- Wrongful Death: Legal actions on behalf of families who have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence.
Snellings Law’s personal injury attorneys in Frisco are equipped to handle these and other complex cases, providing victims with the legal guidance needed to seek justice and compensation.
Get a Free Consultation with a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been involved in a serious accident and need comprehensive legal advice, contacting a personal injury attorney for a free consultation has never been easier. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Visit Their Website
Most law firms have a dedicated section for virtual consultations. Navigate to their homepage and look for “Free Consultation” or “Contact Us”.
2. Fill Out a Contact Form
Once you’re on the consultation page, you’ll likely find a form to fill out with your basic information, such as name, phone number, and a brief case description.
3. Call or Email
You can also contact us directly via phone or email. Many firms display their contact numbers prominently at the top or bottom of their websites. Emails are another convenient option if you prefer to write down your questions or concerns.
4. Use Live Chat
Some law firms offer live chat services directly on their website. This lets you instantly connect with a representative who can guide you through setting up your virtual consultation.
What to Expect in the Free Strategy Session
During the free strategy session, you can expect to discuss:
- Details of Your Case: Be prepared to clearly explain what happened.
- Legal Options: The attorney will outline potential legal avenues.
- Next Steps: You’ll receive advice on the best steps to take moving forward.
Before the free strategy session starts, make sure you have any relevant documents or information on hand. This will help the attorney provide the most accurate advice possible.
Following these simple steps, you can easily set up a virtual consultation and get the assistance you need to navigate your personal injury case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has an auto accident left you or a loved one grappling with a spinal cord injury? Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments can feel like navigating a complex maze. But fear not! We have answered several frequently asked questions here.
The spinal cord runs from the base of your brain to your lower back. A spinal cord injury results from damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal. This often leads to permanent alterations in strength, sensation, and other bodily functions below the injury site.
Spinal cord injuries in auto accidents can occur due to sudden, blunt-force trauma. Such trauma might include the impact of a collision, the body being violently thrown around, or debris penetrating the spine. Typically, we see more severe spinal cord injuries in crashes with significant force, such as high-speed, rollover, and head-on car accidents.
Symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury but may include pain, numbness, paralysis, incontinence, difficulty walking, or loss of control over body movements. Some spinal cord symptoms may not be felt immediately but develop several days after the accident.
A diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. Additional tests like a myelogram or nerve conduction study might be required in certain cases.
Treatment for spinal cord injuries often involves immediate emergency care followed by ongoing rehabilitation. This might include surgery, medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive treatments.
We would love to tell you YES!, but it oftentimes depends on the circumstances. The personal injury process in Texas can be very complicated, depending on several factors. Typically, if the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence, you would be able to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
There is no one-size-fits all damages scale. Each case is evaluated independently based on multiple factors. An adjuster or a jury will look at things like the severity of your injury, the cost of your medical treatment, your lost earnings, and other factors like how the injury has affected various aspects of your life and day-to-day activities.
The “statute of limitations” varies by state. You have as little as two years from the accident date in Texas to file a lawsuit. It’s crucial to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss deadlines!
Please note: This FAQ is intended as a general overview and does not serve as legal advice. If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury in an auto accident, it’s critical to consult with an attorney for guidance based on your unique circumstances.
Why Choose Snellings Law?
All we do at Snellings Law is personal injury. If you or a loved one has been recently injured in a severe accident, don’t hesitate to call us. At Snellings Law, we fight for our clients to get the treatment they need and help them obtain their full settlement. Our team of award-winning trial lawyers is dedicated to helping victims with catastrophic injuries across North Texas.
If you are suffering a spinal cord injury due to the negligence of someone else, it is imperative to set up a consultation with a skilled spinal cord injury lawyer. A dedicated attorney may be able to help you receive compensation for damages to alleviate the financial impact the injury may have. We understand how overwhelming and stressful this time can be, and we aim to provide you with the support and legal help you need to navigate this challenging period.
Call us at 214-387-0387 and set up a free strategy session with one of our spinal cord injury attorneys today to discuss your next steps.
Free Strategy Session Reveals How To Avoid the Traps Insurance Companies Set for Victims to Destroy Claims.
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How it works:
- Call us now or give us your basic information in the Free Strategy Session box
- If your case is something we cannot help you with, we will do our best to get you the information of someone who can.
- If we can potentially help you, we will schedule a Free Strategy Session
There is zero obligation. We want all injury victims to understand their rights and the process.
After your Free Strategy Session, you will understand where insurance companies can set traps for you and what needs to be done to avoid these traps. You will also understand the personal injury process as well as how we can help, or if you need the help of an attorney. The strategy session typically will have one of three outcomes. You:
- Decide to move forward with our law firm.
- Decide to think about it, and we will be available to answer your questions.
- Say, “I’ve got this,” and decide you do not need an attorney.
Again, there is zero obligation and you will be informed and understand your rights and the process. We want to arm you with knowledge to avoid the traps insurance companies set to harm your claim.
For more information on our office locations visit:
Frisco – Personal Injury Law Firm Office
If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident
due to someone else’s negligence, please call us today.