The Long-Term Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most devastating types of injuries that can result from accidents, leaving victims with life-altering physical, emotional, and financial challenges. In Nevada, as elsewhere, individuals who sustain a spinal cord injury due to another party’s negligence may be entitled to significant compensation for the long-term impact on their lives. Our Las Vegas Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys at Mainor Ellis are here for victims and their families as they navigate the recovery process and seek justice.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, which is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the body. These injuries often result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. SCIs can affect motor control, sensation, and the body’s ability to function normally below the level of the injury.
Spinal cord injuries are classified into two broad categories:
- Complete SCI: This type of injury results in total loss of function below the site of the injury.
- Incomplete SCI: In this case, some function remains below the injury site, but the level of functionality may vary.
Physical and Emotional Impact
The physical impact of a spinal cord injury is severe, and it affects nearly every aspect of a person’s life. The most obvious consequence is the loss of mobility. If the injury occurs in the cervical spine (neck area), it may result in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), while injuries in the thoracic or lumbar spine may cause paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body).
Beyond paralysis, victims of spinal cord injuries often experience chronic pain, respiratory issues, and complications with organ functions. The loss of independence and the ability to perform routine tasks—such as dressing, eating, and bathing—can lead to a profound sense of frustration, depression, and anxiety. Long-term medical treatments, including physical therapy, medications, and surgeries, are often necessary to manage pain and prevent complications, which can be costly.
On the emotional side, the mental toll of a spinal cord injury is just as significant. Many individuals face feelings of isolation, grief, and hopelessness as they come to terms with the fact that their lives have been dramatically altered. Depression and anxiety disorders are common among individuals who sustain severe SCIs, and ongoing mental health support may be required to cope with the new reality.
Economic Consequences
The financial impact of a spinal cord injury is staggering. Medical costs alone can run into the millions over a lifetime, particularly for individuals with severe injuries that require round-the-clock care. Hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, home modifications, and the need for specialized medical equipment are just a few of the ongoing expenses that families must deal with.
In addition to medical costs, individuals with SCIs may also be unable to return to work, leading to a permanent loss of income. For some, a spinal cord injury may require a complete change in their career or permanent disability benefits.
Legal Rights and Compensation
In Nevada, victims of spinal cord injuries caused by accidents resulting from another party’s negligence have the right to pursue compensation through personal injury lawsuits. In cases involving motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, or workplace injuries, individuals may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Current and future medical costs associated with the injury, including rehabilitation, surgeries, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to an inability to return to work or diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages to compensate for the physical and emotional toll the injury takes on the victim.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation for the significant lifestyle changes and loss of independence that come with a spinal cord injury.
- Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the defendant and deter similar conduct.
Seeking Legal Help
Given the lifelong challenges associated with spinal cord injuries, victims and their families need experienced legal representation to help secure fair compensation. An attorney specializing in personal injury law can guide you through the process of filing a claim, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to an accident, contact a trusted personal injury attorney at Mainor Ellis in Las Vegas. Our team is dedicated to helping victims of spinal cord injuries get the financial relief and justice they need to rebuild their lives.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-042.html
