Virginia Spinal Cord Injuries Due to Accidents: What You Need To Know
Virginia spinal cord injury Attorney
Spinal cord injuries caused by accidents can have life-altering consequences for victims and their families. Familiarizing yourself with the types of spinal cord injuries, common causes, potential damages, and legal options is essential. Our comprehensive guide helps you understand these facets and empowers you to make informed decisions with the support of a skilled spinal cord injury lawyer, such as our team from Broughton Injury Law.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when an external force, such as a sudden impact or trauma, damages the spinal cord—the bundle of nerves connecting the brain to the rest of the body. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, various physical, neurological, and emotional symptoms can arise, potentially resulting in long-term or permanent disabilities.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are generally classified into two types: complete and incomplete. The difference lies in the extent of damage to the spinal cord and its impact on the victim’s ability to move or feel sensation below the injury site.
1. Complete Spinal Cord Injury:
This injury results in the total loss of motor function and sensation below the injury site, often leading to paralysis.
2. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury:
An incomplete injury causes partial impairment of motor or sensory functions below the injury level, with varying levels of severity and long-term consequences.
What Are the Most Common Spine Injuries?
Spinal injuries can manifest in several ways, each with a unique set of challenges and medical complications. Three of the most common spine injuries resulting from accidents include herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and spinal cord injuries.
1.Herniated Disc:
A traumatic event can cause spinal discs to rupture or bulge, potentially resulting in severe pain, numbness, and weakness.
2. Fractured Vertebrae:
High-impact forces can lead to fractures in the spinal bones, which can be disabling and cause extreme pain, lost mobility, or spinal instability.
3. Spinal Cord Injury:
Direct or indirect trauma to the spinal cord can lead to a range of debilitating symptoms, including paralysis, loss of sensation, and impaired bodily functions.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can happen in various circumstances, some of which are more prevalent than others. The most common causes include:
1. Motor Vehicle Accidents:
Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, or bicycle collisions can all result in spinal cord injuries due to severe impact or force to the spine.
2. Falls:
Slip-and-fall accidents, as well as falls from significant heights, are among the leading causes of spinal cord injuries.
3. Acts of Violence:
Physical assault, gunshot wounds, or other violent events may lead to spinal cord damage.
4. Diving Accidents:
Mistimed or incorrect diving techniques leading to head-first impacts can cause spinal cord injuries.
5. Medical/Surgical Complications:
Medical malpractice, such as faulty surgeries, misdiagnosis, or delayed treatment, can contribute to spinal cord injuries.
Damages That May Be Recovered in a Spinal Cord Personal Injury Case In Richmond Virginia
Spinal cord injury victims may be eligible to claim various damages to address the physical, emotional, and financial burdens faced. Some examples of damages sought in spinal cord injury cases include:
- Medical expenses, including ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Experiencing pain and suffering as a result of the injury
- Emotional distress and psychological trauma
- The inability to enjoy life and one’s regular activities
- Loss of consortium, referring to altered relationships with family members
- Home and vehicle modifications required due to the injury
Necessary Legal Considerations for Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury claim in Virginia requires an understanding of several legal factors, including the statute of limitations, contributory negligence, damages, insurance, and evidence collection.
Statute of Limitations
In Virginia, a two-year statute of limitations applies to personal injury claims, including spinal cord injuries. This deadline means that victims have two years from the injury date to file a lawsuit against the liable party. Failing to file within this timeframe may result in losing the right to claim compensation.
Contributory Negligence
Virginia follows the contributory negligence system, which denies compensation to any victim found even marginally at fault for their injury. Engaging with a skilled spinal cord injury attorney is critical to challenge contributory negligence claims and enhance your chances of obtaining compensation.
Damages
Understanding the extent of damages is crucial for spinal cord injury victims seeking compensation. Victims must gather documentation to support their damages claim, such as medical bills, proof of lost income, and evidence of emotional or psychological trauma attributable to the injury.
Insurance
Insurance companies play a critical role in spinal cord injury compensation claims. Determining the insurance coverages applicable, such as auto insurance or medical malpractice insurance, is vital. An experienced attorney can effectively negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and work to secure an equitable settlement.
Evidence
Gathering evidence is imperative to building a strong spinal cord injury case. Critical evidence may include police reports, witness statements, medical records, photographs, and expert testimony. A specialized attorney can identify and collect essential evidence to substantiate your claim and counter any contributory negligence allegations.
The Legal Perspective: Compensations for Spinal Cord Injuries from Accidents
If you or a loved one is suffering from a spinal cord injury due to an accident, know that you don’t have to face this difficult time alone.
At Broughton Injury Law, our dedicated team of experienced spinal cord injury lawyers stands ready to fight on your behalf. We understand the profound physical, emotional, and financial challenges resulting from spinal cord injuries and are committed to advocating for your right to receive the compensation you deserve to move forward in your life.
Don’t hesitate to get the support and assistance you need—contact Broughton Injury Law today at 804-250-5852, or email us at gray@graybroughton.com to schedule your free consultation. Let us partner with you in pursuing justice and paving the way for a brighter, more secure future!
Latest Posts
The Impact of Virginia’s Dram Shop Laws on Drunk Driving Accident Cases
Drunk driving remains a significant concern in Virginia, leading to severe accidents, injuries, and fatalities. The state has implemented various laws to...
How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take to Settle in Virginia?
Personal injury cases can be stressful and often take time to resolve. If you've been injured due to someone else’s negligence, you may be wondering how...