If you or someone you love suffered a spinal cord injury for which someone else is to blame, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At Bradford Law, we understand the profound impact of SCIs and are committed to helping victims in Charlotte and throughout North Carolina demand justice and secure the financial support they need for their recovery. Contact us today and ask for your free consultation with a spinal cord injury lawyer in Charlotte.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs from the base of the brain down the back, protected by the vertebrae of the spine. It transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body, controlling movement, sensation, and bodily functions. When the spinal cord is damaged, these signals can be disrupted or completely severed, leading to various degrees of paralysis and loss of function.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are typically classified into two main categories:
- Complete SCI: This occurs when there is a total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of injury.
- Incomplete SCI: In this case, some function remains below the primary level of injury.
The severity and location of the injury determine its effects. For example:
- Tetraplegia (also known as quadriplegia): Affects all four limbs, typically resulting from injuries to the cervical (neck) region of the spine.
- Paraplegia: Affects the lower half of the body, usually resulting from injuries to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spine.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
While SCIs can result from various circumstances, some of the most common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, and truck collisions are one of the two leading causes of SCIs, per the World Health Organization (WHO).
- Falls: The other leading cause of SCIs according to WHO, falls are especially common in construction or other workplace accidents.
- Sports Injuries: Serious injuries are particularly common in high-impact or extreme sports.
- Acts of Violence: Deliberate wrongdoing, such as assault, can also lead to SCI.
- Medical Malpractice: Another common cause of SCI is medical negligence, such as through surgical errors or misdiagnosis.
If your SCI resulted from any of these scenarios or another incident for which someone else is to blame, you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.
The Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries
The effects of a spinal cord injury extend far beyond the immediate physical trauma. Victims often face:
- Physical Challenges: Including paralysis, loss of sensation, chronic pain, and complications affecting various bodily systems
- Emotional and Psychological Effects: Such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Lifestyle Changes: Including modifications to their homes, vehicles, and daily routines to accommodate their new needs
- Financial Burdens: Lifetime costs of treating SCIs can reach into the millions of dollars, per the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
Legal Rights and Options for SCI Victims
If your spinal cord injury resulted from someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. This may include money for your:
- Medical Expenses: Both current and future medical costs related to your injury
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for time off work and reduced ability to earn in the future
- Pain and Suffering: For the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed
- Home and Vehicle Modifications: Costs associated with making your living space and transportation accessible
- Long-term Care Costs: Including in-home care or assisted living expenses
Living with a spinal cord injury is expensive. According to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, someone who has incomplete motor function due to a spinal cord injury they suffered at age 25 will likely pay $1.5 million in lifetime care costs. For paraplegia, that cost rises to $2.3 million. Those with the most severe form of tetraplegia can expect to pay upwards of $4.7 million.
At Bradford Law, we understand the importance of securing fair and full compensation for an SCI. Let us fight for the financial security you need to live your fullest life possible.
North Carolina’s Statute of Limitations
North Carolina places a statutory limit on how long accident victims have in which to file lawsuits against at-fault parties. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury as a result of someone else’s negligence, you likely have three years from the date of injury to bring suit. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury as a result of a workplace accident, you likely have two years from the date of the injury. If you attempt to do so after this deadline has passed, the other party can file a motion for dismissal, which the court hearing the case is likely to accept. Don’t put your rights at risk—get in touch with Bradford Law right away so we can start pursuing compensation immediately.
How Bradford Law Can Help
At Bradford Law, we understand the devastating impact of spinal cord injuries on victims and their families. Our commitment to you includes:
- Free Initial Consultation: We’ll review your case at no cost to you.
- No Fee Unless We Win: Our lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we secure compensation for you.
- Comprehensive Case Management: Our lawyers handle every aspect of your case, from investigation to settlement negotiation or trial.
- Compassionate Support: We provide caring, personalized attention throughout the legal process.
- Proven Track Record: Our law firm has successfully recovered millions for accident victims in Charlotte and across North Carolina.
Contact Bradford Law Today
If you or a family member suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s fault, you may be eligible for compensation through a personal injury claim. The experienced personal injury attorneys at Bradford Law are here to fight for your rights and help you demand the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today for a free consultation to discuss your case and options with an experienced and compassionate spinal cord injury lawyer in Charlotte.
