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Any trauma to the spinal cord, which stretches from the base of the skull down to the tailbone, is considered a spinal cord injury. Depending on where the injury occurs on the spinal cord, it will impact what symptoms are caused by the injury. For example, an injury to the spinal cord near the neck will often result in paralysis from the neck down. If the injury to the spinal cord occurs in the low back area, it may only result in partial paralysis of the legs.
Due to the severe consequences of a spinal cord injury, it is important to consult with an experienced catastrophic lawyer as soon as possible. A delay in seeking representation can have a detrimental effect on a spinal cord injury case. There are many steps that need to be taken, and the sooner competent legal counsel is retained, the more likely a successful outcome. Speak to a knowledgeable Oak Lawn spinal cord injury lawyer to discuss your rights, case, damages, and legal options to recover compensation.
Spinal cord injuries typically result from trauma. The vertebrae are made of bone and surround the spinal cord. They serve as protection to the spinal cord itself. However, if there is a trauma to the back or neck that injures the vertebrae, it can result in an injury to the spinal cord itself. The skull protects the brain from injury, and the vertebrae protect the spinal cord from injury. Any type of trauma can result in a spinal cord injury. Most spinal cord injuries occur in the following:
In addition to trauma to the spinal cord itself, there can be damage to the discs in between the vertebrae. This can impact a spinal cord injury as well.
Spinal cord injuries can result in very serious consequences, so it is best to seek medical attention immediately following an accident. Individuals should be checked out in case there is something injured that they are unaware of. Failure to seek prompt medical attention can often lead to a lesser recovery and the insurance company will argue that any gap in medical treatment should relieve them of the responsibility for paying for all injuries sustained. A spinal cord injury may not be readily apparent immediately after an accident.
After immediate medical attention, the follow-up treatment will be with a neurosurgeon. This type of specialist is in the best position to provide medical treatment to a spinal cord injury. Many hospitals have dedicated units to treat spinal cord injuries. Often, medical treatment is interdisciplinary and involves several specialties who work collaboratively to treat a spinal cord injury.
Seeking medical attention not only helps with treatment, but it could help prove their case. A spinal cord injury case depends on medical treatment in order to prove the nature and extent of the injuries. A skilled Oak Lawn spinal cord injury attorney could use medical records, history, scans, and x-rays to prove the severity of their damages in court.
Once the emergency treatment for a spinal cord injury is over, it is important to speak with an experienced spinal cord injury lawyer. The sooner that they speak to a lawyer, the better the likelihood of adequate recovery. Crucial evidence of the facts of the case, as well as the spinal cord injury, may be lost if there is a delay. In order to pursue a legal case, it is essential that a lawyer document and prove all damages. Injuries to the spinal cord can be difficult to prove. Additionally, a spinal cord injury lawyer will be able to advise them on all aspects of their case and their injuries.
Since a personal injury lawyer does not charge an upfront fee, it is always worthwhile to seek legal counsel sooner rather than later. Call today to learn more about how an Oak Lawn spinal cord injury lawyer could help your case.