Types of Spinal Cord Injuries in Personal Injury Lawsuits

Accidents are a common occurrence throughout the Greater Toronto area, including smaller communities like Milton.  So when a personal sustains a catastrophic spinal cord injury, people oftentimes rely on the experience and expertise of a personal injury lawyer team to ensure they are compensated fairly and reasonably.  In many cases involving spinal cord injuries, the physical damage that the victim sustains can vary considerably.  However, one thing is certain.  Their family could be financially devastated without the help of a personal injury lawyer.

Different Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

There are two types of spinal cord injuries that become the focal point of many personal injury claims and lawsuits – “complete” and “incomplete” spinal cord injuries.  It goes without saying that these types of injuries can have devastating, life-changing effects on the victim.  The emotional and financial impact that is attributed to these types of injuries can be overwhelming, not to mention how taxing the care and treatment of the injured individual can be.  Suffice it to say, adjusting to these circumstances could require extensive rehabilitation, ongoing medical care, and psychological counseling. Some people never get back on the feet again due to the intensity of the injuries that have rendered them confined to the wheelchair for life.

Complete Spinal Cord Injuries

You commonly see complete paraplegia or tetraplegia result in the most severe spinal cord injuries.  While some paraplegics are able to get around with assistive equipment, others require the support of a self-propelled wheelchair.  Complete paraplegia is characterized by the loss of function and sensation in the bladder, bowel, legs, and reproductive region while their arms and hands still function in normal fashion.

With tetraplegia, the individual loses arm and hand function as well as the other areas of the body mentioned in the prior paragraph.  In the more severe cases, the individual requires a ventilator so they can breathe.  Depending on what part of the body that was injured, they may have the ability to use their arms and hands.

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

These are far more common than complete spinal cord injuries and there is usually some degree of movement and sensation below the injured area.  Once the initial shock to the spine has subsided, the extent of the injury can be determined.  However, it could take up to 2 months before this is possible.  Additionally, the individual may experience some feeling but little if any movement or some movement but little if any feeling.

The Need for a Personal Injury Lawyer

No matter whether it is a complete or incomplete spinal cord injury, the need for an experienced personal injury lawyer in Milton and their legal support staff cannot be overstated.  If you or a loved one has sustained such an injury, a spinal cord injury lawyer can help you and your loved one get fair and reasonable compensation and ensure that your rights are protected.