Experienced Vancouver Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys
Vancouver Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
Find out why we have some of the best personal injury lawyers in Vancouver
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury is a devastating and life-changing event that occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, leading to a loss of movement, sensation, and function. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body, allowing for movement and sensation.
When the spinal cord is injured, these messages can be disrupted, leading to paralysis and other long-term health complications.
Individuals with spinal injuries may also experience emotional and psychological difficulties as they come to terms with their new limitations. This can include feelings of frustration, depression, and anxiety as they navigate the changes to their daily lives and their relationships with others.
At the end of 2022, there were approximately 302,000 people in the U.S. who had a spinal cord injury. [1]
Goldberg & Loren are experienced spinal cord injury lawyers in Vancouver, Washington. We understand the challenges you are facing and are here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Goldberg & Loren today to schedule a consultation, and let us guide you through the legal process.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can be categorized into several types based on their severity and location on the spinal cord. Common types include:
- Complete Spinal Cord Injury: This occurs when the spinal cord is fully severed, resulting in a loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site. This type of injury often leads to paralysis.
- Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: In this type of injury, some communication between the brain and the body is preserved. This means that some sensation and movement may still be present below the injury site, although it may be limited or impaired.
- Quadriplegia: Also known as tetraplegia, this type of injury affects the cervical spinal cord, resulting in paralysis of all four limbs and potentially the trunk.
- Paraplegia: This type of injury affects the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral spinal cord, leading to paralysis of the lower half of the body, including the legs.
- Spinal Cord Contusion: This involves bruising or swelling of the spinal cord due to trauma, which can lead to impaired nerve function and neurological deficits.
- Spinal Cord Compression: This occurs when the spinal cord is compressed by fractured bone, a tumor, or other tissue, resulting in neurological symptoms and potential paralysis.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Vancouver
Some common causes of spinal cord injuries include:
- Motor Vehicle Accident: Whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or pedestrian accident, the force and impact of a vehicle collision is the most common cause of damage to the spinal cord. [2]
- Falls: Whether it’s a slip and fall at home, in the workplace, or in a public place, the impact of a fall can result in damage to the spinal cord.
- Acts of Violence: Acts of violence, such as assault and gunshot wounds, are, unfortunately, can also cause spinal cord injuries in Vancouver.
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What are the Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury?
The symptoms of spinal cord injuries can vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Erectile dysfunction, fertility issues, or changes in sexual sensitivity
- Inability to control bowel and loss of function of the bladder
- Involuntary muscular contractions
- Numbness or tingling in the extremities
- Pain, or abnormal sensation in the back or neck
- Spinal cord injuries at higher levels can affect the muscles involved in breathing
- Weakness or paralysis in the limbs
What Compensation is Available For a Spinal Cord Injury?
Compensation for spinal cord injuries can vary based on numerous factors, including the severity of the injury, the circumstances surrounding the injury, and the laws of the jurisdiction where the injury occurred. Compensation may include:
- Medical Expenses: This can cover the costs of hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care related to the spinal cord injury.
- Lost Wages: If the injury results in the victim being unable to work for a period of time or permanently, compensation may cover lost wages, future earning capacity, and vocational rehabilitation.
- Pain and Suffering: This compensates for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall reduction in quality of life caused by the injury.
- Home Modifications and Assistive Devices: Compensation may cover the costs of adapting the injured person’s home to accommodate their new needs, as well as purchasing equipment like wheelchairs or mobility devices.
- Caregiver Expenses: If the injured person requires ongoing care, compensation may cover the costs of hiring a caregiver or home health aides.
- Legal Damages: In some cases, compensation for loss of consortium, loss of companionship, and punitive damages may be awarded.
Vancouver Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Goldberg & Loren is a reputable law firm that is dedicated to helping individuals who have been injured due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others. We:
- Understand the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that come with a spinal cord injury
- Are committed to fighting for our client’s rights
- Ensure you receive maximum compensation
- Are skilled negotiators and litigators who will not hesitate to take a case to trial
- Provide compassionate and personalized support to our clients
- Work tirelessly to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible
If you or a loved one is dealing with a spinal cord injury in Vancouver, Washington, don’t hesitate to reach out to Goldberg & Loren spinal cord injury attorneys, for top-notch legal representation.
Our personal injury attorneys in Vancouver are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of your case and fighting for the justice and compensation you deserve.
FAQs
Yes, Vancouver, Washington is home to specialized spinal cord injury rehabilitation centers that provide comprehensive care and support for individuals with spinal cord injuries. These rehabilitation centers offer specialized programs and services tailored to the specific needs of spinal cord injury patients, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, psychological support, and assistance with activities of daily living.
The treatment options for spinal cord injuries may include a combination of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative interventions. In the acute phase, immediate medical attention focuses on stabilizing the individual and preventing further damage to the spinal cord. This may involve surgery, pharmacological treatments, and bracing to realign and stabilize the spine.
The diagnostic process often involves assessing symptoms such as loss of sensation, motor function impairment, and changes in bodily functions. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs are used to visualize the spinal cord and surrounding structures, helping identify the location and severity of the injury. Neurological tests are also employed to evaluate reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory function. Specialized tests such as electromyography (EMG) or somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEP) may be used to assess nerve function and transmission.
Sources:
[1] Facts on spinal cord injuries in the U.S. 2022. (2023, June 22). Statista. https://www.statista.com/statistics/640922/spinal-cord-injuries-overview/
[2] Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury Facts and Figures at a Glance. (2024). In National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. Retrieved May 8, 2024, from https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/public/Facts%20and%20Figures%202024%20-%20Final.pdf
We fight hard for our clients who have suffered a spinal cord injury in Vancouver, Washington. Our personal injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation.
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