Spinal cord injuries have been in the news a lot over the past few years. As we learn more about the dangers of injuries to our heads and backs, we’re working ever harder towards eliminating these horrible injuries. A spinal injury can result in a long recovery that extends for years and can even leave one with a lifelong disability.
Getting compensation from those responsible is a vital part of being able to pay your bills and retain some control of your life. Learn all about the process of a spinal cord injury lawsuit, what types of injuries are common, and the role a personal injury lawyer plays in your case.
The Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit
A spinal cord injury results when the bundle of nerves that runs down the center of your back is damaged. This nerve cluster is responsible for all of the communications between your brain and body, and when these communications are disrupted, any number of severe symptoms can result, from pain to paralysis, to mood swings and psychological conditions, to problems with breathing, bodily functions and even sexual function.
Over 42% of spinal injuries result from car accidents, while a further 27% come from falling. 15% or so result from violent attacks, and just under 8% occur as a result of sports or recreational activities. When these injuries are caused by negligence or deliberate malicious acts, the victim may be entitled to compensation.
Defenses to Watch for
When you file a spinal cord injury lawsuit, there are a number of tactics that insurance companies will take to try to avoid paying damages. Among these are claims that you bear some or all of the responsibility for your injury because you were acting irresponsibly.
If for example, you had been drinking that night, the defendant could claim that you were intoxicated and that’s why you hurt yourself. They could also claim, in cases of recreational injuries, that you assumed the risk of participation in an activity you knew carried a danger of injury, and in so doing, you can’t hold them responsible.
These defenses can be difficult to challenge if you don’t have the right knowledge and experience.
Compensation
If you are hurt and someone else is at fault, you are eligible for a range of compensatory damages, including payment of your medical bills, lost wages and lost potential for future earnings, lost relationships and companionship, lost financial support, pain and suffering, and damages for emotional loss.
In some cases, if the behavior was truly egregious and deliberate, you can even get punitive damages. You will, however, need help proving that you were the victim, and getting this compensation.
Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer
Getting compensation for a spinal cord injury can be tricky in light of the common defenses, but it’s still worth pursuing and can be significant. You need, however, the help of a qualified personal injury lawyer to make sure your rights are protected. If you’re in Maine, call our attorneys today at 207-775-3819 or fill out our free case review form.
