If you have sustained a spinal court injury as the result of an accident or fall, you already know the fallout of this type of injury is certainly traumatic. There are many costs associated with this type of injury, and many times your health insurance is not enough to cover all of those costs. You're probably considering a lawsuit, so it's important for you to understand the issues that may come along with this type of legal case.

Definition of a Spinal Cord Injury 

A spinal cord injury is just that - damage to the spinal cord. The damage can be minimal, but usually the results are partial or full loss of sensation and motor control. Some people who sustain spinal cord injuries have difficulty breathing, maintaining bladder control and body temperature, and keeping the ability to be sexually active. Extreme injuries usually result in paralysis. 

Spinal cord injuries are usually the result of a blow to the spine. Common causes of spinal cord injuries are falls, accidents from playing sports, acts of violence, and car accidents. Some spinal cord injuries are also the result of errors during surgical procedures that involve the neck and back. 

Legal Grounds for Lawsuits

For injuries that were caused by negligence, you will need to prove that the party you wish to sue was somehow negligent or deemed to be at fault. This would be in instances of car accidents, or a slip and fall on property that was not maintained and kept safe from danger. 

You may also sue if your injury was caused by a dangerous or defective product. This could be because of faulty airbags or seat-belts that caused injuries you sustained in an automobile accident to be much worse than they would have been had the seat-belt or airbag worked properly. In this case, you would sue the company that manufactured and sold the product.  

Possible Compensation 

You are generally suing for some type of monetary award when it comes to spinal cord injuries, which would be compensation for the losses you have suffered because of your injury. 

For a spinal cord injury, these damages and losses could include medical reimbursement, but also money for pain and suffering, because a spinal cord injury can have a more lasting and permanent effect on your quality of living for the rest of your life.  Extra compensation could include the ongoing health care you'll need, devices like wheelchairs and ramps, and any modifications you need to make to your home.

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, consult with an attorney who specializes in personal injury claims for spinal cord injuries (such as Edward J. Achrem & Associates, Ltd. or another practitioner).