Any injury that affects the spinal cord can be devastating and pose a significant risk of permanent paralysis. If negligence led to an accident that resulted in spinal cord injuries, you may have a claim for damages. An Omaha spinal cord injury lawyer could evaluate your situation and determine whether you have a valid personal injury claim for compensation.
Although it may be tempting to accept the first settlement offer you receive from an insurance company, it rarely will be a fair offer. Instead, consider consulting a knowledgeable Omaha spinal cord injury attorney who can help you explore all available legal options. Legal counsel from Berry Law could help you receive adequate compensation for your injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries in Omaha
The brain and spinal cord collectively comprise the central nervous system, which controls all bodily movement and sensation. Any blow, fracture, or injury to the vertebrae that surround the spinal cord can compress, crush, or destroy the nerve cells in the spinal cord. These nerve cells permit communication between the brain and spine, meaning a spinal cord injury can halt some or all communication between the brain and the rest of your body.
A spinal cord injury typically results in partial or total loss of movement of the body below the site of the injury. Therefore, if the injury occurs high on the spinal cord, which is called the cervical region of the spine, individuals may suffer from quadriplegia. This type of paralysis involves loss of sensation and movement below the neck, including the torso, arms, and legs.
If the injury occurs farther down on the spinal cord, it can result in paraplegia, or paralysis that primarily affects the lower part of the body. Along with the loss of movement inherent in paralysis is dysfunction in the operation of bodily functions. Loss of bladder and bowel control, circulatory system dysfunction, and respiratory system difficulties all can be the result of a spinal cord injury.
Negligence in Injury Claims
Most personal injury claims, including those that stem from accidents resulting in spinal cord injuries, are based on negligence. When other parties act in a manner that falls below the standard of care that a reasonable person would act in a specific situation, he or she is considered to be negligent. If someone is negligent and causes an accident that injures you, they may be liable for the costs of your injuries.
Even if you are partially at fault for the accident that led to your injuries, you may be able to seek compensation. Those who are less than 50 percent at fault for their injuries still may be eligible to file an Omaha personal injury claim. However, the total amount of damages that they can recover will decrease according to their percentage of fault for causing the accident.
Injuries and Damages
Most spinal cord injuries are catastrophic and leave individuals permanently and substantially impaired. These injuries often require significant medical care at the time of the accident and may require ongoing medical treatment.
Fortunately, all these items may be compensable in a personal injury claim. If you have been injured, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical expenses, home health care, and other ongoing needs that stem from your injuries. You also can seek loss of income and future earnings due to your inability to return to work. A spinal cord injury lawyer in Omaha could help you fight for compensation for your losses.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
Consult an Omaha Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one sustained a spinal cord injury in an accident, you may be able to hold negligent parties accountable for their conduct. You also may be able to seek the compensation that you need and deserve. An Omaha spinal cord injury lawyer could help. Call today for a free consultation to discuss your options.