If you were in a car accident or if you fell on a slippery or uneven surface, it is possible you have suffered a spinal cord injury. If so, you are not alone. Approximately 17,000 people suffer a new spinal cord injury each year in the United States. And the treatment of spinal cord injuries, while necessary, can be costly.
How are spinal cord injuries treated?
Spinal cord injuries can be treated in a variety of ways. If you are taken to the emergency room via ambulance, paramedics will likely immobilize your spine before transporting you. Once at the emergency room traction can help return your spine to its appropriate alignment.
Some people need surgery to treat a spinal cord injury, especially if they suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury or have progressive neurological deterioration. While surgery may not entirely undo the damage the injury caused, it can help stave off future pain.
If you have a neurologically complete tetraplegia, you could suffer further complications such as pneumonia, bed sores and deep vein thrombosis, which will require further medical treatment.
Seeking legal help after a spinal cord injury
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, you may never fully recover your former state of health, and it is likely you have racked up significant medical expenses in the treatment process. The financial consequences of a spinal cord injury can be difficult to cope with, especially if your injury keeps you from working to earn an income to pay your bills.
If your spinal cord injury came about as the result of an accident that was caused by the negligence of another party, you may be able to pursue compensation from the responsible party through a personal injury lawsuit.
For example, if you were rear-ended by a truck, it is possible that the driver of the truck breached their duty of care, which is to drive safely and defensively. If that collision was the cause of your spinal cord injury, you may be able to seek compensation for the financial damages you suffered.
Personal injury lawsuits can quickly become complex. Fortunately, you can work with a personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and can advocate for your interests.