Although the spinal cord is protected within the spinal column of the vertebra, it is not immune to injury. The bones that make up the spinal column can be crushed, dislocated, broken, or fractured, causing damage to the spinal cord itself and potentially leading to paralysis.
If your paralysis may have been caused the actions of another, a compassionate Gary paralysis injury lawyer could help you hold the liable party accountable. Should you choose to retain one, a skilled catastrophic injury attorney could hear the details of your case and provide information regarding any potential claim available to you.
There are varying forms of paralysis, each sorted into a different classification based on the damage sustained and how the body is affected. Damage higher on the spinal cord tends to lend to more severe paralysis. If one has any questions regarding the different types of paralysis injuries and how they may impact a case, contact a dedicated Gary paralysis injury attorney.
Monoplegia refers to when a single area of the body is paralyzed, commonly an arm or leg. It could result from brain injuries or from direct injury to the spinal column.
Hemiplegia occurs when one half of the body is impacted, typically including both the arm and leg on one side. This form of paralysis could be permanent or temporary.
Paraplegia refers to paralysis of the lower half. This may commonly impact the legs and hips. It can also affect an individual’s virility, fertility, and excretory systems.
Also called tetraplegia, quadriplegia is the most severe form of paralysis. This classification refers to paralysis of the entire body below the neck, including all limbs. Depending on the circumstances, this kind of paralysis injury can be temporary, but it is more commonly permanent.
Indiana state law limits the length of time individuals have to file a claim. This deadline, also known as the statute of limitations, works to ensure cases are based on recent evidence and claims. Paralysis injury victims have two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, according to Indiana Code §34-11-2-4.
Once the statute of limitations has passed, a potential plaintiff may be barred from seeking legal remedies for their injury. However, retaining a detailed Gary paralysis injury lawyer helps ensure that a case is filed within this deadline. Contacting an attorney relatively soon after the initial injury provides a larger window to prepare for filing and may allow for more thorough collection evidence or testimony to develop a strong claim.
Victims of paralytic injuries may be able to receive compensation—referred to as damages—for the harm they sustain. Listing and quantifying the value of injuries and losses with a Gary paralysis injury attorney’s assistance could aid in settlement negotiations. If the case goes to trial, these damages may be taken into consideration by the jury.
Common recoverable damages in Gary include:
Any type of paralysis can dramatically alter your life. You may be forced to take time off work, switch jobs, or stop working altogether, and you could be forced to rely on family and friends for help with basic everyday needs. Whether your paralysis is partial or complete, a long road lies ahead.
If a serious injury has left you paralyzed and wondering how you will handle medical costs and day-to-day struggles, contact a skilled Gary paralysis injury lawyer today. A seasoned personal injury attorney could evaluate the facts of your case and help you understand how you may be able to recover if someone else is responsible for your damages.