Coping with a spinal cord injury can bring about life-altering changes, not just for the victim but also for their family. It often means facing a future filled with challenges, adjustments, and significant medical expenses. Good Guys Injury Law understands the complex nature of these injuries and the profound impact they have on your life. Our experienced attorneys in Salt Lake City advocate for spinal cord injury victims.
At Good Guys Injury Law, we believe in fighting relentlessly for the rights of those who have suffered spinal cord injuries. Whether you have suffered a complete spinal cord injury or incomplete spinal cord injury, we would be honored to review your spinal cord injury case. Through a Utah spinal cord injury lawsuit, we might secure reimbursement for your medical costs and lost wages.
Learn more about a personal injury lawsuit below. Then, contact us to schedule a free consultation.
Table of Contents
Proven Salt Lake City Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Ready to Assist You
Our Salt Lake City spinal cord injury attorneys have a proven track record of success. We are here to help you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you need. Let us help with your spinal cord injury recovery.
Legal Framework of Spinal Cord Injury in Salt Lake City
Spinal cord injuries in Salt Lake City fall under the broad legal category of personal injury law. These cases often involve complex legal issues. Our attorneys are well-versed in the legal framework surrounding spinal cord injuries and use this knowledge to advocate effectively for our clients.
Relevant Laws and Regulations Related to Personal Injury Cases
In Salt Lake City, personal injury laws govern claims related to spinal cord injuries. These laws set the guidelines for determining liability, negligence, and compensation. Our attorneys are experts in these laws. We can show you how they impact your case.
Statute of Limitations for Filing Spinal Cord Injury Claims
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Utah is usually four years from the date of the injury. However, there can be exceptions depending on the specifics of your case. Acting quickly is crucial to preserving your right to seek compensation.
Comparative Negligence and Its Impact on Spinal Cord Injury Cases
Utah follows the comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases. This means that if you are partially at fault for your injury, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. Our lawyers have plenty of experience dealing with cases involving comparative negligence and can help you navigate this complex aspect of the law.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
Knowing the various types of spinal cord injuries is critical in assessing the impact on your life and determining the compensation you need. In addition to differentiating between complete spinal cord injuries and incomplete spinal cord injuries, these injuries can be divided by location.
Sacral SCI
Sacral spinal cord injuries (SCIs) affect the lower part of the spine. They can result in loss of movement and sensation in the hips, legs, and pelvic organs. People with sacral SCIs often face challenges with mobility and may require assistive devices or modifications to their homes.
Lumbar SCI
Lumbar spinal cord injuries impact the lumbar region and can lead to paralysis or weakness in the legs. Individuals with lumbar SCIs may require extensive rehabilitation, assistive devices, and ongoing medical care. These injuries can have an impact on your ability to work and perform daily activities.
Thoracic SCI
Thoracic spinal cord injuries occur in the mid-back region and can result in paralysis or weakness in the trunk and legs. Such injuries typically demand ongoing medical attention and can lead to secondary complications such as respiratory problems and pressure sores. Thoracic SCIs can dramatically alter your lifestyle and independence.
Cervical SCI
Cervical spinal cord injuries involve the neck region and are often the most severe type of SCI. They can result in complete or limited mobility in both the arms and legs, known as quadriplegia or tetraplegia. Cervical SCIs require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and lifelong support.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
A multitude of reasons can lead to spinal cord injuries, ranging from traumatic events to non-traumatic conditions. Understanding the origin of your injury is vital in building a strong legal case and identifying liable parties. Our attorneys have experience handling cases involving different causes of spinal cord injuries.
Traumatic Injuries
Specific events are often the cause of traumatic spinal cord injuries, such as car accidents, falls, sports injuries, or acts of violence. These injuries can be sudden and severe, resulting in immediate and long-lasting effects. Our team examines the factors surrounding your injury to establish liability and pursue compensation.
Non-Traumatic Injuries
Non-traumatic spinal cord injuries can result from medical conditions such as infections, tumors, or degenerative diseases. These injuries can develop gradually and may be challenging to diagnose. Our attorneys understand the complexities of non-traumatic spinal cord injuries and are skilled in pursuing claims related to medical negligence or other causes.
Complications That Can Arise From Spinal Injuries
- Paralysis. Paralysis is a severe complication of spinal cord injuries, resulting in the loss of movement and sensation in affected areas. This can have a profound impact on your independence and quality of life. Our team works to secure compensation that covers the costs of medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices to help you adapt to life with paralysis.
- Loss of Sensation. Such injuries may result in a loss of sensation, affecting your ability to feel temperature, pain, and touch. This can increase the risk of injuries and complications. We advocate for compensation that addresses the challenges and risks associated with sensory loss.
- Bladder or Bowel Problems. Spinal cord injuries can disrupt bladder and bowel function, leading to incontinence or other issues. These complications can affect your daily life and require ongoing medical management. Our attorneys work to ensure that your compensation includes the costs of treatments and accommodations for these challenges.
- Breathing Difficulties. Injuries involving the upper spinal cord can impact respiratory function, leading to breathing difficulties. This may require the use of respiratory aids or ongoing medical care. We pursue compensation that covers the costs of respiratory support and any necessary medical interventions.
- Chronic Pain. Some people with spinal cord injuries suffer from chronic pain. This can be debilitating and affect your overall quality of life. Managing this pain often requires ongoing treatment, including medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery. Our legal team works to ensure your compensation covers these ongoing pain management needs.
- Blood Clots. Spinal cord injuries often increase the risk of developing blood clots, particularly in the legs, known as deep vein thrombosis. These clots have the potential to become lodged in the lungs, where they could be fatal. We strive to secure compensation that includes the cost of preventive measures and treatments for blood clots.
- Depression and Anxiety. The emotional consequences of a spinal cord injury can be significant, often leading to depression and anxiety. This emotional toll requires professional mental health support and treatment.
What You Can Do if You or Your Loved One Suffered From a Spinal Injury
A. Seek Medical Attention. Immediate and ongoing medical attention is crucial. It ensures the best possible recovery and documents the extent of your injuries, which is essential for your legal case.
B. Document Everything. Maintain detailed records of your medical visits, treatments, and how the injury affects your daily life. This documentation is key evidence in your legal claim.
C. Keep Track of Expenses. Tally all expenses stemming from your injury, including medical bills, travel costs for treatment, and any home modifications. These records are crucial for calculating the compensation you deserve.
D. Consult With an Attorney. Engage an experienced spinal cord injury attorney early on. They can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.
E. Follow Medical Advice. Adhering to your medical treatment plan is important for your recovery and your legal case. It demonstrates your commitment to getting better.
F. Be Cautious With Insurance Companies. Be careful when dealing with insurance companies. They often try to settle your claim quickly for less than you deserve. Your lawyer can fight on your behalf to ensure fair compensation.
Legal Process of Spinal Cord Injuries in Salt Lake City
A. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation. Our attorneys start by evaluating your case, understanding the details of your injury, and explaining your legal options.
B. Investigation and Gathering Medical Evidence. We conduct a thorough investigation, gathering medical records and other evidence to build a strong foundation for your claim.
C. Filing a Personal Injury Claim. We then file a personal injury claim on your behalf, outlining the damages you’ve suffered and the compensation you’re seeking.
D. Negotiation With Insurance Companies. Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to achieve a fair settlement, ensuring your needs are fully addressed.
E. Litigation and Trial Proceedings if Necessary. We are prepared to represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached. Our attorneys have the experience and skills to advocate effectively on your behalf.
Evidence That Can Prove Fault for a Spinal Cord Injury Claim
- Eyewitnesses. The perspectives shared by witnesses to the accident can be critical in establishing how the injury occurred and who is at fault.
- Medical Specialists. Expert opinions from medical professionals can help demonstrate the extent and cause of your injuries, linking them directly to the accident.
- Police Officers. Reports and testimonies from police officers who responded to the accident scene provide official accounts of the incident.
- Accident Reconstruction Specialists. These experts can recreate the crash scene, providing a clearer picture of what happened and who was at fault.
- Financial Experts. They can assess the economic impact of your injury, including lost wages and future earning capacity, which is essential for your compensation claim.
Compensation Available to Salt Lake City Spinal Cord Injury Victims
Victims of spinal cord injuries in Salt Lake City are entitled to various forms of compensation.
A. Medical Expenses. This should cover all medical costs tied to your injury, both current and future, such as surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any specialized care.
B. Lost Wages and Future Earnings. If your injury affects your ability to work, you can claim compensation for lost wages and the potential loss of future earnings.
C. Pain and Suffering. This compensation will cover the physical and emotional distress caused by your injury.
D. Home Modifications and Assistive Devices. Costs for modifying your home to accommodate your injury and for assistive devices like wheelchairs are also recoverable.
E. Emotional Distress. Compensation can cover the emotional and psychological impact of your injury, including treatment for depression and anxiety.
F. Punitive Damages (If Applicable). Punitive damages can be granted if the actions of the defendant were particularly egregious.
Our Salt Lake City Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers Are Relentless Advocates for You
A. Case Evaluation and Consultation. We start by offering a free consultation. During this meeting, we evaluate your case and discuss your legal options.
B. Investigation and Gathering Evidence. Our law office completes a comprehensive investigation to collect all necessary evidence to support your claim.
C. Negotiation With Insurance Companies. We negotiate hard with insurers to make sure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
D. Representation in Court, if Necessary. If your case goes to court, our experienced trial lawyers can represent you and present a strong case on your behalf.
Contact Our Experienced Salt Lake City Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer at Good Guys Injury Law Today for a Free Consultation
Contact Good Guys Injury Law today. Our experienced Salt Lake City spinal cord injury lawyers are ready to provide the support and legal expertise you need. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and how we can help. We also invite you to take a look at our settlements, verdicts, and client testimonials.
Give us a call today to discuss your case!