Spinal cord injuries are amongst the most severe back injuries that can happen. This can leave individuals with permanent medical conditions and lifelong medical expenses. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves located in the spinal column, and it carries messages back and forth from the brain to the body. It controls basic functions like breathing, bladder control, and body temperature. When the spinal cord is damaged, these functions are severely affected. These injuries can also cause partial or full loss of an individual’s sensation and motor control, turning them into paraplegics and quadriplegics.
Statistics on Spinal Cord Injuries
The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center reports that 42 percent of spinal cord injuries are caused by car wrecks. In some cases, spinal injuries can result from unsuccessful surgical procedures performed on the neck or back. Falls, acts of violence, and recreational sports are also responsible for severe injuries.
Diagnosis and Treatments
If a car accident occurs and a back injury is suspected, the person should not be moved; this can worsen the damage. Some spinal injuries do not show up quickly, so getting immediate medical care after an accident is critical. Even if the initial medical exam does not show damage, patients should be alert for any unusual discomfort or sensations.
Physicians use bone scans, x-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and myelograms to diagnose back injuries after car accidents. The treatment will depend on the severity and type of injury. Treatments include pain medication, physical therapy, and surgery. Some patients find relief through chiropractors. Other patients must undergo surgical procedures designed to reduce pressure on the spinal cord. It is common for the vertebrae to fuse together, so parts of the vertebrae may be removed. For others, the damage is permanent.
Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuits
In most cases, spinal cord injury lawsuits focus on negligence; this is also true for most personal injury suits. If a plaintiff claims their injury was caused by another party’s negligence, they will have to prove fault. Defendants may argue that the victim’s own negligence contributed to the accident. For example, if the victim was intoxicated or was distracted while driving, contributory or comparative negligence may be found.
It is also possible that an injury was the result of a defective automobile or car part, such as faulty airbags or seatbelts. Spinal cord injuries can lead to significant, life-altering damages. Some victims may receive compensation for their injuries.
Washington, D.C. Car Wreck Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Spinal Cord Injury Victims
If you suffered a spinal cord injury or any other injury from a car accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Our compassionate Washington, D.C. car wreck lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King will help you obtain maximum compensation for your sufferings. Injuries from car accidents can be severe and lifelong, our experienced lawyers will help you receive compensatory damages. Contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963 for a free consultation. Located in Washington, D.C., we also serve clients throughout Maryland.
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