Virginia Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Seeking Maximum Compensation for Spinal Cord Injury Victims

In 2013, there were an estimated 273,000 Americans living with a spinal cord injury, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC). Although there is a wide range of spinal injuries, the most serious occur in the spinal cord and can cause paralysis and loss of motor skills.

Patients may suffer quadriplegia (all four limbs are affected) or paraplegia (legs are affected), in which the victim suffers complete or incomplete loss of function. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a preventable accident, The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC is ready to help you get compensated.

Backed by decades of experience and millions of dollars in recoveries, our experienced Alexandria spinal cord injury lawyers know how to handle catastrophic injury cases and strive to recover maximum results for our most severely injured clients. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial strain that you and your family are going through, and we genuinely want to help you in any way possible.

Our compassionate team is standing by to help you. Request an initial evaluation with our Virginia spinal cord injury lawyer today.

What Are the Types of Spinal Cord Injuries?

Some of the most serious forms of spinal injuries include:

• High cervical injury -This type of injury may leave the patient completely without movement below the neck, and he or she may require assistance breathing. There may also be problems with bladder or bowel control.
• Low cervical injury - This injury affects the lower cervical nerves and affects the lower extremities. Patients may be able to breathe and perform some daily living tasks on their own. They may have little bowel or bladder control and require daily assistance.
• Thoracic or lumbar - Patients who suffer injury to the thoracic and lumbar nerves may suffer paraplegia. Patients have full use and feeling of their upper bodies but have limited or no feeling and function in their lower bodies and legs. They may be unable to control bladder and bowel functions, although they may manage on their own with special equipment.

What Is the Most Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries?

The majority of these injuries are caused by motor vehicle accidents (37.6%), although injuries caused by falls are a close second (28.5%). The NSCISC also estimates that the lifetime costs for medical and living expenses for a person suffering from a cervical injury can reach up to $4.6 million, depending on the age at which the victim was injured and the severity of the injury.

How Does a Spinal Cord Injury Affect a Person's Life?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) can profoundly affect a person’s life in multiple ways. The extent of these effects often depends on the severity and location of the injury, but common impacts include:

• Paralysis: A spinal cord injury can lead to paralysis of parts of the body below the injury site, affecting the ability to move the legs (paraplegia) or all limbs and torso (tetraplegia). This can limit physical activity and significantly alter daily routines.
• Loss of Sensation: Injuries can cause a loss of feeling in areas below the injury, affecting the ability to detect temperature, touch, and pain. This increases the risk of unnoticed injuries and infections.
• Incontinence: Many people with spinal cord injuries struggle with bowel and bladder control, leading to incontinence. They often require catheterization and other management techniques to handle these issues.
• Changes in Sexual Function: Spinal cord injuries can result in changes to sexual function, such as reduced sensation or difficulties with sexual response. These changes can impact intimate relationships and personal satisfaction.
• Emotional Challenges: The transition to living with a spinal cord injury can lead to depression, anxiety, and a sense of loss. Adjusting to new limitations and managing emotional stress can be significant hurdles.
• Independence: Individuals may lose their independence and need help with daily tasks like dressing and mobility. This change can affect their social interactions and personal autonomy.
• Career Changes: A spinal cord injury may prevent continued employment in a previous job, leading to financial difficulties. The costs of medical care, adaptive equipment, and home modifications can also strain finances.
• Pressure Sores: Prolonged immobility increases the risk of developing pressure ulcers or bedsores. Additionally, individuals may face respiratory and circulatory problems depending on the injury’s severity.
• Ongoing Therapy: Continuous physical and occupational therapy is essential to improve function and adapt to life with a spinal cord injury. Adaptive technologies and home modifications may be necessary to assist with daily activities.
• Increased Care Needs: Family members and caregivers often face increased responsibilities and emotional stress as they support the individual. This can impact their own well-being and daily lives.

How Long Does Recovery Take for Spine Injuries?

Recovery time varies widely depending on the severity of the injury, the level of the spinal cord affected, and individual factors. Some individuals may see improvement within months, while others may experience long-term challenges. Ongoing therapy and care can impact recovery timelines.

Treatment for spinal cord injuries often involves a team of specialists, including:

• Neurosurgeons: For surgical treatment and management.
• Orthopedic Surgeons: For spinal corrections and support.
• Rehabilitation Physicians: For overseeing rehab and recovery plans.
• Physical Therapists: For improving movement and strength.
• Occupational Therapists: For assistance with daily living activities.

What Damages Are Available in a Spinal Cord Injury Claim?

In many cases, spinal cord injuries are preventable. In the event negligence was the cause of the injury, a victim who suffers a spinal cord injury can file a claim in order to obtain monetary compensation from the at-fault party.

Regardless of the reason for the injury, the recovery process can be long and hard, and unfortunately, many individuals who suffer this type of injury never fully recover. While our Alexandria spinal cord injury attorneys understand it is impossible to put a dollar figure on the impact a catastrophic injury will have on your life.

Our team strives to determine a fair settlement value that will take all possible factors into consideration. We will work with you and your medical providers to learn the full cost of your injuries and what it will cost to treat in the long-term.

Your claim can also include other factors such as:

• Wage loss
• Transportation expenses
• And in-home medical care beyond what medical insurance may provide

You Have Rights! Let Us Protect Them

The Barrera Law Firm, PLLC has more than 75 years of experience in handling personal injury claims. Our firm is recognized by the National Trial Lawyers, Million Dollar Advocates Forum, and Virginia Trial Lawyers Association, and more.

After a serious accident, we know injured individuals are likely to have questions about the claims process and their rights. Our experienced spinal cord injury attorneys will discuss these matters with you during a free consultation. Our team has a hands-on approach to cases and always centers the claim around the client.

Ready to move forward with your claim? Contact us at (571) 290-2390 as soon as possible to schedule a free consultation with our experienced Virginia spinal cord injury attorney.