The spinal cord is comprised of a bundle of nerves that relay messages between the brain and nearly all other parts of the body. If it becomes damaged, bodily communication can be halted, affecting your ability to move, sense external stimuli, and/or control other functions. A spinal cord injury (SCI) can have a profound impact on your quality of life.
One of the most common causes of spinal cord, spinal column, and vertebrae injuries is car accidents. Every year in the U.S., around 17,000 SCIs are reported, with nearly 40% resulting from traffic crashes. When vehicles collide with one another, the push-and-pull forces can make your body hit interior surfaces, such as the seat, dashboard, and/or center console; in more severe accidents, you could be flung from your car. The blows could crush or dislocate the cord or vertebrae.
Effects of a Spinal Cord Injury
Nearly any part of your body could be affected by an SCI. You could have complete or partial loss of motor or sensory function below the affected area. The consequences could be devastating and long-lasting.
Physical impairments that can result from damage to the spinal cord include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Full or partial paralysis
- Inability to control bladder or bowel functions
- Loss of sensation on your skin
- Pain in muscles and/or joints
- Poor circulation
Costs Associated with Spinal Cord Injuries
The emotional and financial costs of a spinal cord injury can be significant. Some people have reported suffering from anxiety and/or depression because of the harm they suffered.
An SCI not only affects your ability to live the life you once had, but it could also require long-term medical care, resulting in hefty bills. According to a study published in the Neuroimmunol Neuroinflammation Journal, initial costs for a traumatic spinal cord injury were over $140,000. Many patients need rehabilitation care and might require additional surgeries or re-hospitalization, further increasing medical expenses. On top of that, hospital stays could be up to two weeks and recovery takes time, which results in missed work and potentially lost wages.
Schedule a Consultation with Rion, Rion & Rion
If you were in an accident caused by another driver, and you suffered a spinal cord injury, you might be entitled to seek compensation for damages. As noted above, an SCI could affect not only your finances but also your psychological wellbeing. Although money cannot erase the pain you suffered, it can help you get the care you need to treat your condition.
Our attorneys are here to provide the compassionate legal representation you need after an accident. We will take the time to listen to your circumstances and build a compelling strategy on your behalf. Personal injury matters can be complicated, often requiring thorough research and investigation. In addition, obtaining compensation means dealing with insurance companies that don’t always have your best interest in mind. We are not afraid to go up against these companies to work toward recovering the settlement you deserve. Our team will focus on the details of your case so you can focus on your health and recovery.
Schedule a free case evaluation by calling us at (937) 223-9133 or contacting us online.