Spinal cord injuries are almost always catastrophic, often resulting in permanent paralysis. These injuries significantly impact a victim’s life, requiring costly medical treatment for the foreseeable future.
If you or someone you love suffered spinal cord injuries due to another party’s negligence, contact a Florida spinal cord injury attorney at Nonni Homola. Send us an online message or call (850) 601-1111 today for a free consultation.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Florida
Numerous accidents and events can lead to a spinal cord injury. Some might be from unavoidable, natural causes, but others result from someone’s negligence. Any time you suffer a spinal injury, it’s important to speak with a Florida spinal injury lawyer to discuss whether you have a claim.
Common causes of spinal cord injuries include the following.
Car Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents involving other cars, large trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, or pedestrians can result in catastrophic injuries. Your spinal cord is delicate, and the impact of a collision can sever it. Victims, such as motorcycle riders, who lack the safety protections built into a vehicle are more at risk.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in younger individuals.
Falls
Falling can leave you with permanent injuries, especially as you age. Even a slip and fall can cause a spinal cord injury. Falling from a ladder or higher level increases the risk of more severe damage. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons states that falls are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in older adults.
Acts of Violence
Gunshots, knife wounds, and other types of assault put the victim at risk for a spinal cord injury. Penetrating wounds can result in permanent paralysis.
Medical Malpractice
Medical negligence can cause or worsen spinal cord injuries, especially during surgery. When a medical provider’s actions fall below the standard of care, it can lead to a medical malpractice claim. A Florida spinal cord injury lawyer can help you determine whether you have a potential claim against the provider.
Sports and Recreation
Athletes are prone to countless injuries, especially those in high-contact sports. However, everyday individuals are also at risk when playing non-professional sports or participating in various recreational activities.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
There are two main types of spinal cord injuries—incomplete and complete. An incomplete spinal cord injury means the victim still has some motor and sensory functions. While some incomplete injuries are only temporary, it’s more likely that the person will have issues for the rest of their life.
A complete spinal cord injury means you lose all sensation and the ability to move below the injury site. This means permanent paralysis. The higher the injury is on the spine, the more of the body is affected. For example, a complete spinal cord injury in the neck means the person won’t be able to move their arms and legs. They might also have difficulty speaking and eating.
Why Hire a Florida Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
Recovering maximum compensation in spinal cord injury cases requires the expertise of a spinal cord injury law firm. Catastrophic injuries resulting in permanent disability typically require medical treatment for the rest of your life. At Nonni Homola, we work with skilled experts who can analyze potential future costs and damages. Without this evidence, you could miss out on the compensation you deserve.
When you hire our spine injury attorneys in Florida, we will conduct an independent investigation and preserve all relevant evidence. We’ll also handle all communication with the defendant’s insurance company and lawyers, submit a demand, and negotiate a potential settlement. Should the defendants be unwilling to negotiate in good faith, we will prepare to file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Recoverable Damages in a Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit
Understandably, prospective clients want to know how much compensation they can recover in a spinal cord injury lawsuit.
Every case differs, but some of the most common damages available in a lawsuit include:
- Medical expenses to date,
- Future medical expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Future loss of earning capacity,
- Permanent disability,
- Specialized wheelchair and other equipment,
- Property damage,
- Pain and suffering,
- Loss of consortium and enjoyment of life,
- Cost of household services you can no longer perform, and
- Modifications to the home.
Your attorney will review what damages apply in your case and what evidence is necessary to prove your case value.
Contact a Florida Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
You have legal rights if you suffered a spinal cord injury due to another party’s negligence or intentional acts. Hiring lawyers who have trial experience with spinal cord injuries is crucial. Because of complex legal issues and the significant damages involved, you don’t want just any personal injury law firm.
The legal team at Nonni Homola knows what’s at stake in these cases. We’re here for you every step of the way and can help you fight for the maximum compensation possible. Let us put our expertise with spinal cord injuries to work for you. Contact our office online or call (850) 601-1111 today to schedule an initial consultation to learn more about how we can help.