Paraplegia is a life-changing condition that results from some type of trauma to the spinal cord. It is a type of spinal cord injury where that results in a complete or partial loss of function in the legs and sometimes the trunk, but not the arms. In the case of complete paraplegia, the loss of movement is complete, while in cases of incomplete paraplegia, there remains some function in the lower body. Whether or not the injury is complete or incomplete depends on the severity of the injury. While paraplegia can result from illnesses such as transverse myelitis, like a brain injury, neck injury or back injury, it most often is caused by a car accident, truck accident, or motorcycle accident. Car accidents and motorcycle accidents account for up to 40% of new spinal cord injuries each year in the United States. Victims who suffer from a personal injury like paraplegia or other types of paralysis must undergo extensive treatment and rehabilitation. They typically miss a great deal of work or find that they cannot return to work at all. The financial stress caused by mounting medical bills coupled with a limited income is quite stressful. If you have been paralyzed in an accident due to the negligence of another person, it is important that you immediately contact a New York Paraplegia Lawyer as you may be entitled to receive compensation for your injuries which can include reimbursement for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering.
Common Causes of ParaplegiaWhile paraplegia can be caused by an illness, sports injuries, a fall from a high elevation, or a gunshot wound, it is most often caused by a traumatic injury to the spinal cord that crushes, fractures, or dislocates one or more of its vertebrae. Most spinal cord injuries of this sort are the result of high-impact car accidents or truck accidents. Sadly, in most cases the accident that resulted in paralysis was due to negligence and could have been avoided.
Symptoms of ParaplegiaThe symptoms of paraplegia vary from person to person. Generally speaking paraplegics experience a loss of sensation and motor function in the lower trunk and legs. Some victims also experience tingling or burning sensations. Other health issues related to paraplegia include loss of bladder or bowel control, low blood pressure, decreased muscle tone in affected limbs, incontinence, impotence, thrombosis, bedsores or pressure sores, and chronic nerve pain.
Treatment of a Paraplegia InjuryThe treatment required by a victim suffering from paraplegia depends on whether on the injury is complete or incomplete. Most victims face a long recovery period that may include surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Therapy is also important to help the victim move around more freely and resume their daily activities. Other therapies that may be used include respiratory therapy, drug therapy, and mental health care.
Pursuing a ClaimIf your paraplegia resulted from another person's negligence, New York law allows you to pursue damages through a personal injury claim. The negligent person may be ordered to pay for your emergency room visit, surgery, rehabilitation, visits to the doctor, medication, assistive equipment and other related medical expenses. Because paraplegia will require lifelong care that includes special equipment and rehabilitation services, your compensation will take into account not only your past medical bills, but also your future medical expenses. In addition, the negligent party may be liable for other economic losses you sustained such as lost wages or loss of earning capacity. Furthermore, a court may award you non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or punitive damages.
It is important to understand that under New York law there is a time limitation for filing personal injury claims. If you fail to time your claim within the appropriate time period, you will be forever barred from pursuing a lawsuit against the person responsible for your injury. Furthermore, if your claim is against a government entity such as New York City or the State of New York, there are special procedural rules that you must follow, and a shortened timeframe for filing your claim.
If your injury was the result of a work-related incident injury such as a construction accident or slip and fall accident, then you are entitled to file a claim for benefits under New York’s workers’ compensation rules.
New York Paraplegia LawyerIf you or a loved one was injured in an accident that resulted in temporary or permanent paralysis, contact an experienced attorney who understands both the legal issues associated with personal injury cases as well as the medical issues associated with paraplegia and other types of spinal cord injury. Stephen Bilkis & Associates, PLLC is experienced in handling personal injury cases stemming from auto, truck, motorcycle, boat, and construction accidents. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case.