Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Dealing with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming. However, with the proper legal representation, you can focus on healing while we take care of the legal side of things. Our Daggett Shuler team is dedicated to defending your rights and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injury.

If you've been involved in an accident, it's crucial to recognize the symptoms of a spinal cord injury (SCI) as soon as possible. While some signs may be immediately noticeable, others could develop over time. A spinal cord injury can have serious, long-term consequences, so early detection and medical intervention are key to minimizing further harm. Here are some common symptoms to be aware of:

1. Difficulty Walking or Moving Limbs

One of the most apparent signs of a spinal cord injury is the inability to walk or move limbs properly. If you’re having trouble controlling or moving your legs, arms, or other parts of your body, it could be a sign that your spinal cord has been damaged. Loss of coordination or an inability to perform essential motor functions could indicate nerve involvement and should not be ignored.

2. Inability to Control Bladder or Bowel Functions

Loss of control over bladder or bowel movements is another serious symptom of a spinal cord injury. If you suddenly experience an inability to urinate, pass stool, or control these bodily functions, it may suggest that the spinal cord has been compromised. This type of injury can interfere with the nerves responsible for controlling these functions, and it often signals that urgent medical attention is needed.

3. Unusual Head or Neck Position

If you notice that your head or neck is in an unusual or unnatural position after an accident, it could indicate a significant injury to your spine. This misalignment may be due to vertebral displacement or spinal cord compression, which can lead to nerve damage. A visibly crooked neck or head should always be treated as a potential emergency, and you should avoid moving the person until proper medical evaluation is performed.

4. Loss of Consciousness

Loss of consciousness, even briefly, following an accident is a warning sign that the injury may be more severe than it initially appears. A blow to the head or neck area can cause a sudden impact to the spinal cord, leading to shock or even unconsciousness. If you or someone else experiences a loss of consciousness after an accident, it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention, as it could indicate a serious injury.

5. Experiencing Shock

Shock is a life-threatening condition that can result from a severe injury, including damage to the spinal cord. It occurs when the body experiences a drop in blood flow, leading to a range of symptoms such as rapid pulse, low blood pressure, cold or clammy skin, shallow breathing, and confusion. If you or someone else shows signs of shock after an accident, calling for medical help immediately is vital, as prompt treatment is necessary to prevent further complications.

6. Stiffness or Pain in the Neck, Back, or Head

Severe pain, stiffness, or tenderness in the neck, back, or head following an accident could be an indication of a spinal cord injury. The spinal cord is housed within the vertebrae of the neck and back, so any trauma to these areas can result in serious injuries. You may experience persistent pain, throbbing, or discomfort in the neck or back, and it’s essential to be aware that these could be early signs of a more serious spinal injury.

7. Numbness or Tingling Sensations Spreading to the Arms or Legs

Numbness or tingling sensations in the arms, legs, or other body areas can occur when the spinal cord is injured. These sensations often indicate nerve compression or damage. You may feel like your arms or legs are “falling asleep,” or you might experience sharp, shooting pain that radiates from the spine to your extremities. This feeling may be temporary or persistent, but a doctor should evaluate it to rule out a severe spinal injury.

8. Weakness or Limited Mobility

Spinal cord injuries can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis in some regions of the body, depending on the location and severity of the injury. If you notice that your arms or legs are weak, or if you have difficulty performing tasks that once seemed easy, it could be a sign of spinal cord involvement. In some cases, you might be unable to move certain parts of your body at all. Weakness or paralysis can be a permanent outcome of spinal cord damage, so early intervention is critical to maximizing your recovery.

If you experience any of these symptoms after an accident, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Some symptoms, like paralysis or numbness, might not appear immediately after the injury, and they could worsen over time without proper treatment. The sooner you receive a comprehensive evaluation from a medical professional, the better your chances of limiting the extent of the injury. Delaying treatment could lead to complications, including permanent nerve damage or loss of function.

Spinal cord injuries require careful assessment and prompt care to prevent further damage. Medical professionals will perform diagnostic tests, including imaging studies like X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, to identify the extent of the injury and determine the best course of action for treatment.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms following an accident, call for emergency medical help. Early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes and quality of life.

Work-related spinal cord injuries are among the most severe and life-altering injuries an employee can experience on the job. These injuries often result from falls, heavy lifting, or traumatic incidents involving machinery or vehicles. Depending on the severity, spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and the need for lifelong medical care and assistance. The physical, emotional, and financial impact on workers and their families can be overwhelming, especially if the injury results in the inability to return to work.

Workers' compensation is a critical resource for employees who suffer spinal cord injuries on the job. This insurance system is designed to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and a portion of lost wages while the worker is unable to perform their duties. In more serious cases, workers' compensation may also provide long-term disability benefits or structured settlements to help support the injured worker's ongoing needs.

Additionally, vocational rehabilitation services may be available to help individuals retrain for new employment opportunities if returning to their previous job is not possible. By providing financial stability and access to necessary medical care, workers' compensation plays a vital role in helping injured employees navigate recovery and adjust to new life circumstances.

If you’ve experienced a spinal cord injury as the result of an accident, it's crucial to take immediate action to protect your health, rights, and future. The aftermath of such an injury can be overwhelming, and the road to recovery may seem uncertain. However, you don’t have to face this challenging journey alone. Our experienced team is here to help you every step of the way.

Reach out to us today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Whether you have questions about your injury, the legal process, or the compensation you may be entitled to, we are ready to provide the answers and guidance you need. We understand the gravity of spinal cord injuries and the impact they can have on your life, and we are committed to helping you navigate this difficult time with compassion and expertise.

During your consultation, we’ll take the time to listen to your unique situation, assess the circumstances of your accident, and explain your legal rights. Our goal is to ensure that you fully understand your options and feel empowered to make informed decisions about your case. We will work tirelessly to fight for the justice you deserve and the financial compensation that can help cover the costs of your medical treatments, rehabilitation, lost wages, and any other long-term care needs resulting from the injury.

At Daggett Shuler, we understand that a spinal cord injury can have a lasting impact on your quality of life, affecting not only your physical well-being but also your emotional and financial health. We are here to guide you through the legal process and ensure that you have the support you need to protect your future. Our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation that can help you rebuild your life.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, now is the time to act. Don't delay in seeking the help you need. Contact us today to begin your journey toward recovery. Let us help you protect your future and secure the justice and compensation you deserve. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights. You can depend on Daggett Shuler.