The Long-Term Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries in Texas

• May 25
• EVANS / DESHAZO / REILLEY
• Spinal Injury

Spinal Cord Injuries Change Lives

According to the United Spinal Association, every year more than 17,000 Americans suffer a spinal cord injury, some resulting from preventable accidents. Many understand the initial impact of these incidents, but most don’t realize that the effects can last forever.

In Texas, some of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries are vehicular collisions (involving cars, trucks, and motorcycles), pedestrian accidents, slip and fall incidents, and workplace falls.  The costs of these events are considerable. To say the combination of the financial and emotional impact is overwhelming is an understatement.  One way to help manage the after-effects is by filing a personal injury lawsuit, an option available only when the spinal cord injury was the result of negligence by another individual or organization.

Filing a personal injury lawsuit for a spinal cord injury in Texas is a process best undertaken with the counsel of an experienced and reputable spinal cord injury attorney.  Lawsuits are complicated undertakings, especially when severe and life-changing injuries are involved.  It is necessary to identify, calculate, and substantiate both past and future costs. Victims have only one chance to address these accidents in court, so it is vital to address the totality of the impact on their lives.

Long-Term Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries

Understanding the broad and severe consequences of spinal cord injuries is a crucial part of the legal process. Discussed below are some of those experienced most often.

Paralysis is one of the most common and disastrous results of a spinal cord injury. Depending on the area of the spine damaged, victims may be unable to move their arms or legs. More serious injuries also result in loss of movement in the chest and trunk.

Organ damage is a common result of accidents that result in spinal injuries. Many suffer from a loss of bowel and bladder control (some face a lifetime of catheterizations and surgeries), while others are unable to regulate their body temperature and blood pressure. Certain spinal injuries even put victims at risk for issues with their lungs and heart as time goes by. The respiratory complications (pneumonia, for example) that evolve from spinal injury may cause death. Heart problems include issues like hypertension and atrophy.

Chronic pain from contracting joints and spasms is another issue many face. The pain can be staggering, making each day a living nightmare. Many who suffer from spine injuries also experience neuropathic pain, often described as stabbing, burning, tingling, or aching.

The spine impacts virtually all of life’s functions. Many don’t realize that those who have been hurt face issues with sexual function, and fertility can be impacted.  Additionally, because many victims are immobile (or less mobile), pressure ulcers can develop. These are painful and can become infected. Victims are also at risk for osteoporosis and bone fractures.

The physical long-term consequences of spinal cord injuries are life-changing. The emotional repercussions, while more difficult to quantify, are also a very real and serious side effect that both victims and their family members must face.

When filing a personal injury lawsuit for a spinal cord injury, identifying the long-term costs is an important task.  Recognizing the extent of long-term physical and emotional impact is key.

The Anatomy of Spinal Cord Injury Compensation

As mentioned, identifying, calculating, and substantiating the total costs assumed by an individual suffering from a spinal cord injury caused by negligence is crucial. A reputable spinal cord personal injury attorney will not only be experienced in doing this but also will have relationships with expert witnesses on whom they can call during the legal process.

In  Texas, damages for spinal cord injuries are segmented into three areas:  economic, non-economic, and punitive, each defined below.

Economic Damages: These costs are quantifiable and directly relate to the injury. They may include lifetime medical bills (hospitalizations, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication), adaptations (medical equipment like wheelchairs, ramps, walkers, braces, home modifications, etc.), lost wages and benefits, and supportive personal care. These costs add up quickly; they may reach millions of dollars over a lifetime, depending upon the age of the victim and severity of the injuries.

Non-economic Damages: These are more challenging to quantify, but, especially in the cases of spinal cord injuries, they are very real. It is not surprising that victims experience extreme mental suffering and emotional anguish. Their lives have been turned upside down; the future will never be as bright as the past.  Victims can also be compensated for loss of enjoyment of life and loss of companionship.

Punitive Damages: While these are less commonly awarded, they may be on the table if the accident that caused your spinal cord injury was the result of gross negligence. An experienced spinal cord personal injury lawyer can review your case and determine if these may be relevant.

Engaging an experienced personal injury legal team well-versed in cases like this is important. After all, your settlement will help you manage your future.

Evans Deshazo Reilley Can Help You Address the Financial Impact of Your Spinal Cord Injuries

Our Team Is Experienced and Knowledgeable

With more than two decades of experience, the firm is well-regarded for its considerable knowledge, specialized experience, and compassionate approach to client service. Their outstanding reputation is the result of the tireless efforts they provide to each of their clients.

They appreciate the position in which their clients have been placed and commit to handling the entirety of the legal process on their behalf. While they aim to settle cases in negotiations with all liable parties, they never hesitate to go to court when necessary.

Additionally, Evans Reilley Deshazo handles every aspect of the legal process so their clients can focus on recovery. They are committed to keeping clients informed of the progress of their case, including any settlement offers made.  The final decision regarding accepting a settlement offer or going to court resides firmly with the client; while much of life seems to be spinning, they remain in control in this regard.

Contact The Firm Today

Time is valuable when filing spinal cord injury lawsuits. Lawsuits must be filed within the statute of limitations. Accident investigations, proving negligence, and damage estimates take time, so victims or their family members are encouraged to reach out for legal assistance as soon as possible.  The firm was founded on the unfailing belief that those whose negligent behaviors cause accidents resulting in injury should be held liable. Contact Evans Deshazo Reilley today at 512-732-2727 to schedule your free consultation.