Sacramento Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers
Suffered a Spine Injury Caused by Negligence?
A spinal cord injury is one of the most catastrophic injuries anyone may incur. Violent blows to the back or neck area during a car accident, fall, or while playing sports may result in a permanent disability and paralysis.
Anyone who has suffered a spinal cord injury should obtain immediate medical treatment and then find representation from an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, our team of lawyers is experienced handling spinal cord claimants in Sacramento. We know what evidence to look for, what actions to pursue, and how we can help victims of spinal cord injuries obtain fair and just compensation.
Call (916) 297-4468 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe and life-altering condition that occurs when there is damage to any part of the spinal cord or the nerves at the end of the spinal canal. These injuries often result in permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other bodily functions below the site of the injury. The effects can range from partial to complete loss of motor function and sensation, significantly impacting the victim's quality of life.
Common Causes of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries
Traumatic spinal cord injuries can result from various incidents. Some of the most common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are among the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. The high-impact nature of these collisions can cause severe trauma to the spinal cord.
- Falls: Falls, especially from significant heights or due to slippery surfaces, can lead to spinal cord injuries. These incidents are particularly common among older adults and those working in construction or similar industries.
- Sports and Recreational Activities: Contact sports, diving accidents, and other recreational activities can result in spinal cord injuries. Athletes participating in high-risk sports like football, rugby, and gymnastics are at a higher risk.
- Acts of Violence: Incidents involving gunshots, stabbings, or physical assaults can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
- Medical and Surgical Complications: Errors during medical procedures or surgeries can sometimes result in spinal cord injuries. These cases often involve medical malpractice and require thorough legal investigation.
Common Types of Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are categorized based on their severity and location. The most common types include:
- Complete Spinal Cord Injury: A complete spinal cord injury results in total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of the injury. Victims of complete injuries may experience paraplegia or quadriplegia, depending on the injury site.
- Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: An incomplete spinal cord injury means some motor or sensory function remains below the affected area. The degree of function varies, and rehabilitation can help improve the outcome.
- Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia): Tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, affects the arms, hands, trunk, legs, and pelvic organs. This condition is typically caused by injuries to the cervical spinal cord.
- Paraplegia: Paraplegia affects all or part of the trunk, legs, and pelvic organs. This condition results from injuries to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spinal cord.
- Central Cord Syndrome: This type of incomplete injury results in more significant impairment in the upper limbs than in the lower limbs. It often occurs after a fall or car accident that causes hyperextension of the neck.
Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries
The long-term effects of spinal cord injuries can be devastating and may include:
- Physical Disabilities: Victims may face partial or complete loss of mobility and sensation, requiring the use of wheelchairs, walkers, or other assistive devices.
- Chronic Pain: Many individuals with spinal cord injuries experience chronic pain, which can affect their daily activities and overall quality of life.
- Loss of Independence: Depending on the severity of the injury, victims may require assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
- Emotional and Psychological Impact: Spinal cord injuries can lead to depression, anxiety, and other psychological issues due to the drastic changes in lifestyle and physical abilities.
- Financial Burden: The cost of medical care, rehabilitation, and necessary home modifications can be overwhelming. Many victims are unable to return to work, leading to a loss of income.
How Our Firm Can Help
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, you need a compassionate and experienced Sacramento spinal cord injury lawyer on your side. At the Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley, we:
- Conduct thorough investigations to establish liability
- Work with medical experts to assess the full extent of your injuries
- Calculate the total damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement
- Advocate for your rights in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our team is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation to each client. We understand the challenges you face and are here to help you navigate the legal process with compassion and determination.
To get started on your claim, contact us today at (916) 297-4468.
Why Choose Law Offices of Larry S. Buckley?
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We have handled almost every type of personal injury case and have recovered millions of dollars.
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We understand that accidents can happen at any time and we're here for you day and night.
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We are focused on providing our clients an exceptional customer service and legal experience.