Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries occur when damage to the spinal cord results in loss of function, sensation, or mobility. The severity depends on the location and completeness of the injury. Higher injuries (cervical) affect more body functions than lower injuries (thoracic or lumbar).
Types of Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries can result in different levels of paralysis:
- ✓Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia): Paralysis of all four limbs and torso, typically from cervical injuries
- ✓Paraplegia: Paralysis of the legs and lower body, typically from thoracic or lumbar injuries
- ✓Incomplete injuries: Partial loss of function below the injury site
- ✓Complete injuries: Total loss of function below the injury site
Lifetime Costs of Spinal Cord Injuries
The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation estimates lifetime costs for spinal cord injuries can exceed $5 million for high tetraplegia. These costs include: emergency and acute care ($1M+), ongoing medical care ($100K-$200K/year), personal care assistance ($50K-$150K/year), adaptive equipment and technology, home and vehicle modifications, and lost wages.
Pursuing Maximum Compensation
Spinal cord injury cases require specialized attorneys who understand the complex medical and economic factors involved. Our approach includes engaging life care planners, vocational experts, and medical specialists to document the full scope of lifetime needs.