Experienced New York City Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
New York City Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Find out why we are some of the best New York City spinal cord injury lawyers
Are You or a Loved One Suffering From a Spinal Cord Injury in New York City?
You deserve justice and compensation for your pain and suffering, and that’s where our team of experienced personal injury lawyers comes in. We have a proven track record of success in helping clients just like you, and we’re here to fight for your rights.
You don’t have to face this difficult time alone. With our help, you can get the support and resources you need to move forward with your life. Our team is dedicated to getting you the maximum compensation possible, so you can focus on what really matters – your recovery.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a New York City spinal cord injury lawyer. We’ll help you understand your legal options and guide you through the process of seeking justice and compensation for your injuries.
Spinal cord injuries can be catastrophic, affecting not only the victim’s physical health but also their emotional and financial well-being. Spinal cord injuries can occur as a result of:
- Construction accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Motor vehicle accidents
Spinal cord injury victims can suffer from loss of sensation and function, medical expenses, and long-term care. A spinal cord injury lawyer can help victims navigate complex legal issues related to insurance companies and fair compensation.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries in New York
Spinal cord injuries can be incomplete or complete, and the severity can range from minor to catastrophic
Paralysis
Spinal cord injuries can result in different types of paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. There are two ways to classify a spinal cord injury, complete and incomplete. [1]
Complete paralysis happens when there is a total loss of muscle movement and sensation below the level of the spinal cord injury.
Incomplete paralysis refers to a partial loss of muscle movement and sensation. This means that some sensory and motor functions remain below the level of the injury.
The severity of complete and incomplete paralysis can vary greatly. With complete paralysis, the loss of sensation and muscle movement is permanent. Individuals with complete paralysis often require full-time assistance with daily activities, such as:
- Bathing
- Dressing
- Eating
Incomplete paralysis can be further classified as anterior cord syndrome, central cord syndrome, and Brown-sequard syndrome, depending on the location of the injury.
Individuals with incomplete paralysis may be able to perform some activities of daily living with assistance and may have a greater chance of regaining some function over time.
The estimated lifetime costs associated with different types of paralysis can be staggering. For instance, a 25-year-old who sustains a spinal cord injury resulting in complete paralysis can expect to incur roughly $5 million in expenses. This includes:
- Adaptive tools
- Home modifications
- Medical care
- Rehabilitation
- Specialized equipment
The loss of sensation and muscle movement can make it difficult to participate in activities that were once enjoyed, such as sports, hobbies, and social events.
Nerve Damage
Spinal cord injuries can result in various types of nerve damage depending on the degree and location of the injury.
Complete nerve damage refers to a total inability to send signals between the brain and the affected body part. Partial nerve damage results in weakened signals being transmitted between the brain and the affected body part.
Nerve damage can lead to a host of symptoms. The nature of these symptoms will vary depending on which nerves have been affected. Symptoms of nerve damage in the affected body part can include:
- Loss of sensation
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Weakness
If the spinal cord injury affects nerves responsible for organ function, this can lead to complications such as difficulty breathing, bladder dysfunction, bowel dysfunction and difficulty regulating blood pressure. Chronic pain can also develop in the affected body part due to altered sensation.
Loss of Limb Function
A spinal cord injury is a traumatic event that can have a devastating effect on an individual’s life. One of the most significant consequences of a spinal cord injury is the loss of limb function. When the spinal cord is damaged, nerve pathways that carry messages between the brain and the rest of the body can be disrupted.
This can result in varying degrees of paralysis, depending on the extent of the injury. An individual may experience complete loss of limb function, while in others, they may have limited mobility and control. The location of the injury on the spinal cord can also impact which body parts are affected. For example, an injury to the cervical vertebrae in the neck can result in loss of function in the arms, while an injury to the thoracic vertebrae in the chest may impact the legs.
Loss of limb function due to a spinal cord injury can be a lifelong condition that requires ongoing care and management. This can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and mobility aids such as wheelchairs or braces.
Pain and Discomfort
Spinal cord injuries can cause excruciating pain and discomfort to spinal cord injury victims. The injury itself is usually very painful and often leads to ongoing physical discomfort.
Depending on the severity of the injury, there may also be difficulty walking, loss of control of bodily functions, and impaired sensory function in the affected areas.
Symptoms of spinal cord injuries can vary depending on how severe the injury is and where on the spine it occurs. One of the most debilitating symptoms is paralysis, which can occur either partially or completely. Digestive problems such as:
- Constipation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Loss of bladder/bowel control
These symptoms can have a significant impact on the daily lives of spinal cord injury victims and their families.
The loss of mobility and sensation can mean life-long limitations on physically-driven activities. Simple everyday tasks such as bathing and dressing may become difficult or impossible.
There are several treatment options available for spinal cord injury patients to help alleviate pain and discomfort. Surgeries such as spinal fusion or decompression can help stabilize the spine and alleviate nerve compression.
Physical therapy is also essential for most spinal cord injury victims as it can improve muscle strength, reduce spasms, and help promote a better quality of life.
Medications such as pain relievers, nerve blockers, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help alleviate pain and discomfort.
Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries are those that have a profound impact on an individual’s physical and emotional health, often resulting in permanent disability or death. One of the most devastating catastrophic injuries is a spinal cord injury.
The relationship between catastrophic injuries and spinal cord injury is significant. Many catastrophic injuries, such as severe car accidents or falls from great heights, can cause trauma to the spine and result in spinal cord injury. Other common causes of spinal cord injury include sports-related accidents, violence, and medical conditions such as tumors or infections. Regardless of the cause, the impact of a spinal cord injury can be life-altering, and individuals may require extensive medical care and ongoing support for the rest of their lives.
For those who have experienced a catastrophic injury resulting in a spinal cord injury, it may be possible to seek compensation through legal action. Catastrophic injuries resulting from the negligence or wrongdoing of another can be complex legal cases, and individuals may require the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer who specializes in spinal cord injury cases.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injury in New York
The causes of spinal cord injuries in New York are similar to those in other parts of the United States. The most common causes of spinal cord injuries in New York include:
- Car Accidents: Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in New York. They often result in whiplash, severe fractures, and dislocations of the spine.
- Falls: Falls are a common cause of spinal cord injuries, especially in older adults. Falls from ladders, stairs, and slippery surfaces can all lead to spinal cord injuries.
- Violence: Violence, including gunshots and stabbings, is another major cause of spinal cord injuries in New York. These injuries can result in damage to the spinal cord, leading to permanent disability or death.
- Sports Injuries: Sports-related injuries, particularly in contact sports such as football, can lead to spinal cord injuries. These injuries can occur from collisions, falls, and other accidents on the field or court.
- Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions such as spinal tumors, infections, and degenerative disorders can lead to spinal cord injuries.
- Construction Accidents: Construction sites are high-risk areas with many potential hazards that can lead to spinal cord injuries. Falling objects, electrical accidents, and unsafe working conditions can all cause spinal cord injuries.
Take preventative measures to reduce the risk of spinal cord injuries, such as wearing seat belts, practicing safe working conditions, and using protective equipment during sports and recreational activities.
According to the Spinal Cord Injury Research Board, nearly 1,100 people in New York suffer a traumatic SCI every year. Nationwide, there are 17,700 new SCIs per year, and there are currently around 288,000 Americans living with paralysis from an SCI. [2]
Understanding the causes of spinal cord injuries can help individuals take preventative measures to avoid injury and seek appropriate medical care if an injury occurs.
Car Accidents and Spinal Cord Injuries in New York City
Car accidents are a common cause of spinal cord injuries in New York City. When a driver or passenger is involved in a car accident, they may experience significant trauma to their body, including their spinal cord.
Despite efforts to reduce the number of car accidents in the city, reckless driving, distracted driving, and driving under the influence continue to be major contributing factors to spinal cord injuries resulting from car accidents.
Types of Car Accidents and Spinal Cord Injuries
There are several types of car accidents that can cause spinal cord injuries, including:
- Head-On Collisions: These accidents occur when two vehicles traveling in opposite directions hit each other. The force of the impact can cause spinal cord injuries, especially if a seatbelt is not worn.
- Rear-End Collisions: These accidents occur when a vehicle hits another vehicle from the rear. They can cause hyperextension of the neck and compression of the spine, leading to spinal injuries.
- Rollover Accidents: These accidents occur when a vehicle flips over onto its side or roof. The force of the impact can cause hyperextension or compression of the spine, leading to spinal cord injuries.
- T-Bone Collisions: These accidents occur when a vehicle is hit on the side by another vehicle. The side impact can cause the spine to twist, resulting in spinal cord injuries.
Hyperextension and Compression of the Spine
During a car accident, the force of the collision can cause hyperextension and compression of the spine, leading to spine injuries that can result in spinal cord injuries.
Hyperextension occurs when the neck is extended beyond its normal range of motion, while compression occurs when the spine is compressed due to blunt force trauma.
Common Locations for Car Accidents in New York City
Car accidents can happen anywhere in New York City, but some locations are more prone to accidents than others.
Busy intersections such as Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, for example, are more likely to have accidents due to heavy traffic flow.
Factors Contributing to Car Accidents
Car accidents can be caused by various factors, including distracted driving, driving under the influence, poor weather conditions, and driving at high speeds.
It is important to practice safe driving habits, follow traffic rules, and be aware of potential hazards on the road to help prevent accidents and spinal cord injuries.
Construction Accidents in New York
Construction accidents are a prominent cause of spinal cord injuries in New York City. The inherent dangers of construction sites provide many opportunities for accidents that can result in serious and sometimes permanent spinal cord injuries.
Construction workers are particularly vulnerable to these types of injuries since they work with heavy equipment and machinery, often at great heights.
They are at risk of falling, being struck by falling objects, or being caught in the heavy equipment or machinery, among other hazards. Scaffolding collapses or failures in safety equipment can also lead to spinal cord injuries.
It’s important to note that construction accidents not just impact construction workers. Bystanders who may be passing by or nearby are also susceptible to these accidents, highlighting the importance of safety and caution at all times.
To prevent these types of accidents and associated spinal cord injuries, it’s important for all individuals working at or around construction sites to adhere to strict safety protocols and regulations.
Adequate safety equipment should always be utilized, and all workers should receive appropriate training in safe work practices. Employers have a duty of care to protect their workers and ensure their safety while on the job.
Truck Accidents in NYC
Truck accidents are a significant cause of spinal cord injuries in New York City. The size and weight of a commercial truck can cause severe damage in the event of an accident, often resulting in serious injuries such as spinal cord injury.
In New York City, traffic congestion and narrow streets can contribute to the risk of truck accidents, and in the case of multi-vehicle collisions, the occupants of smaller vehicles are at a higher risk of serious injury.
Individuals who suffer spinal cord injuries in truck accidents may experience lifelong disability, and require a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation. If a truck accident results in a spinal cord injury that was caused by the negligence or wrongdoing of the truck driver, the trucking company, or another party, those affected may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
It is recommended to seek the assistance of a skilled personal injury lawyer in order to explore legal options. Victims of spinal cord injuries resulting from truck accidents have legal options available to them.
Liability for the accident may fall on the:
- Entities responsible for road maintenance and design
- Maintenance providers
- Trucking company
- Truck driver
- Vehicle manufacturers
A thorough investigation into the cause of the accident is necessary to determine who is liable for the injuries sustained.
Acts of Violence
Around 15 percent of spinal cord injuries result from violent encounters, such as gunshot and knife wounds, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC). [3]
Unfortunately, acts of violence are also a significant contributing factor to spinal cord injuries in New York City. Gun violence, in particular, is a pervasive issue, with many victims of gun violence experiencing spinal cord injuries that can lead to permanent disability or even death.
Stabbings and assaults can also cause severe spinal cord injuries. The psychological impact of these violent acts can also be significant, as individuals may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health conditions.
Duty of care is a legal concept that exists to ensure that individuals act responsibly and take reasonable steps to prevent harm to others. When it comes to spinal cord injuries resulting from violence, duty of care plays an important role in determining who may be held liable for the injuries sustained.
If an individual intentionally harms another person through an act of violence, they may be held responsible for their actions and liable for any damages that result, including the costs of medical care and ongoing treatment.
Similarly, if a property owner fails to provide adequate security measures and an individual is attacked on their premises resulting in a spinal cord injury, the owner may be held responsible for their negligence.
Under the duty of care concept, employers and other organizations have a responsibility to protect their employees and visitors from violence on their premises. Failure to take reasonable measures to prevent harm may result in liability for any resulting injuries, including spinal cord injuries.
Related Information
The Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can have a profound impact on an individual’s health and wellbeing both in the short and long term. In addition to immediate symptoms such as paralysis, neuropathic pain, and bowel and bladder dysfunction, spinal cord injuries can also result in long-term complications.
These complications may include pressure ulcers, urinary tract infection, chronic pain, respiratory problems, muscle spasticity, and sexual dysfunction.
Individuals with spinal cord injuries may also be at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders such as depression or anxiety. The extent of the long-term effects and complications may vary from person to person and will depend on factors such as the level of the injury and the individual’s overall health.
Due to the potentially serious and wide-ranging nature of these complications, it is essential for individuals with spinal cord injuries to receive ongoing medical care and support from qualified healthcare professionals.
These effects can be devastating for victims and their families, and can result in lifelong medical expenses and a loss of enjoyment of life.
The Financial and Emotional Cost of a Spinal Injury
A spinal cord injury can have a profound impact, not only on an individual’s physical health but also on their emotional and financial well-being.
The costs associated with a spinal cord injury can be significant, and many individuals may require ongoing medical care and support for the rest of their lives.
Paralysis can lead to loss of independence, inability to work, and the need for long-term care. According to studies, the estimated lifetime costs of paralysis for spinal cord injury victims can range from $1 million to $5 million, depending on the severity of the injury.
Some of the financial costs associated with a spinal cord injury can include medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, and the cost of assistive devices and mobility aids such as wheelchairs. These financial strains can be overwhelming, and many individuals may struggle to cover the costs associated with their care and rehabilitation.
The emotional cost of a spinal cord injury can also be significant. Individuals may experience feelings of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness as they come to terms with the life-changing effects of their injury. They may also face significant lifestyle changes, such as reduced mobility or the need for specialized care. These changes can impact their relationships with family and friends, and it can be challenging to adjust to a new way of life.
It is important to note that there is hope for individuals living with spinal cord injuries. There are a variety of resources available to help individuals cope with the financial and emotional costs of their injury. Local organizations may offer support groups, counseling services, and programs to help individuals regain a level of independence.
There are legal options available for those who have experienced a spinal cord injury due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another. Consulting with a spinal cord injury lawyer from Goldberg & Loren can help individuals understand their legal options and pursue compensation to help cover the costs of their care and support.
Contact Our Experienced NYC Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, now is the time to take action. At Goldberg & Loren, we understand how devastating these injuries can be and are here to provide the guidance and legal representation you need.
Our experienced New York City spinal cord injury attorneys have extensive experience representing clients in personal injury cases related to spinal cord injuries and can provide.
Our lawyers can help you negotiate with insurance companies, file personal injury claims, and navigate the legal process to help you achieve maximum compensation. Contact us for assistance with your spinal cord injury compensation claim today.
Sources
[1] Team, S. C. (2020, February 11). Complete vs Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: What You Need to Know. Complete Vs Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: What You Need to Know. https://www.spinalcord.com/blog/complete-vs.-incomplete-spinal-cord-injuries
[2] Spinal Cord Injury Research. (2015, July 6). New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center.
https://www.wadsworth.org/extramural/spinalcord
[3] UAB, N. (n.d.). NSCISC. NSCISC. https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
5 Columbus Cir Suite 1501
New York, NY 10019
(646) 835-0311
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