Spinal injuries are damage that can happen to any part of the spinal cord or the nerves at the end of the spinal canal. These can inflict immediate and long-term pain and difficulties, including loss or changes in physical strength, various bodily functions, and how the body senses things like pain or temperature. According to the World Health Organization, up to 90% of these types of injuries are due to traumatic causes, including traffic crashes, falls, violence, and work or sports-related injuries. Nontraumatic injuries, which make up a much smaller percentage of overall injuries, are caused by various internal issues, including arthritis, cancer, and infections.

Numerous outcomes can change a person’s life entirely, in some cases requiring them to have permanent caregivers to help them with daily life. In many cases, these injuries are preventable, making them even more tragic.

Potential Outcomes of Spinal Injury

Spinal injuries have both instant and long-developing outcomes. The risk of death from such an injury is highest in the first year, and people with these types of injuries are between 2 and 5 times more likely to die at a younger age than those without a spinal injury.

Some conditions develop later that are rooted in spinal injury. These include chronic pain, respiratory complications, muscle spasms, and blood clots. These secondary conditions can be as debilitating as the original injury. Moreover, between 20-30% of people with spinal injuries have clinical depression.

It also takes a toll on life outside the physical body. Some people become dependent on caregivers to handle their day-to-day life. If that’s a family member or loved one, that kind of work can take both a physical and emotional toll on the caregiver. If one must be hired, it can be financially draining, especially if not covered by any kind of insurance.

Why Bring in a Lawyer for a Spinal Injury?

Traumatic spinal injuries are primarily caused by external events rather than internal infections or arthritis. Someone who was in a car accident, injured through an act of violence or athletic activity, or fell in a slippery area may need long-term care and treatment. If someone else, whether an individual or an organization, bears fault for the injury, working with an injury attorney can help the injured person receive funds to help them with their needs. That, in turn, gives them less to worry about and allows them to focus on their recovery.

Let Us Advise You

Spinal injuries can require extensive legal assistance. If you or someone you know has suffered a spinal injury, call us at 816-866-7711 to learn what legal remedies could be available.