A spinal cord injury can change every aspect of a person’s life in an instant. If another party’s negligence caused your injury, the Pottsville personal injury lawyers at Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. are prepared to help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward in life. Our team understands the impact these injuries have on victims and their families and is committed to protecting your rights throughout the legal process.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often result from traumatic accidents that place tremendous force on the neck or back. Many of these incidents could have been prevented if another person or business had acted with reasonable care. Some of the most common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Defective products
- Falls on unsafe property
- Medical malpractice
- Acts of violence
- Sports and recreational accidents
Pennsylvania spinal cord injury claims are generally governed by the Pennsylvania Comparative Negligence Act, 42 Pa. C.S. § 7102, which can significantly impact the amount of compensation an injured person may recover based on the degree of fault assigned to each party. An injured person’s damages are reduced by their percentage of responsibility for the accident, but they may be barred from recovering compensation if they are found to be more than 50% at fault.
In spinal cord injury cases, where damages can include extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, future care needs, lost earning capacity, permanent disability, and pain and suffering, even a small percentage of fault attributed to the injured person can substantially reduce the final recovery.
Defendants may attempt to argue that the injured person contributed to the accident or the severity of the injury, making the determination of fault and the presentation of evidence critical in protecting the injured person’s right to full and fair compensation.
The Lasting Effects of a Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury can cause partial loss of movement, while others may suffer complete paralysis below the point of injury. Recovery often involves extensive rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, home modifications, and ongoing medical treatment.
Hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and long-term care expenses may continue for years. Many victims are unable to return to their previous careers, creating additional financial stress for themselves and their families.
Beyond the physical challenges, spinal cord injuries frequently lead to emotional struggles.
Depression, anxiety, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and changes in family relationships are common as victims adjust to a new way of life. Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. understands that every injury affects more than medical bills alone, and our lawyers work to pursue compensation that reflects the full impact of your losses.
Reach Out to an Experienced Pottsville Personal Injury Lawyer From Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C.
Recovering from a spinal cord injury is challenging enough without the added stress of handling a legal claim on your own. The Pottsville personal injury attorneys at Fanelli, Evans & Patel, P.C. are ready to guide you through every stage of the process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact our firm today by calling 570-622-2455 or through our online contact form.