Helping Auto Accident Victims with Spinal Cord Injuries Recover
Injuries to the spinal cord are common in automobile accidents. A spinal cord injury is classified as trauma to the spinal cord itself or the collection of nerves at the end of the spinal cord. Even the least severe of spinal cord injuries can have long-term or permanent complications. Symptoms can range from pain and discomfort to varying degrees of paralysis.
For accident victims who have suffered spinal cord injuries, an attorney may be able to help. Much like burns, amputations, and fractures, there will almost certainly be costly medical bills that follow. Many victims are unable to work the same after the accident, if at all. With the help of an experienced automobile accident attorney, victims may be able to recover financial compensation for these consequences. Consulting with an attorney is the first step in determining what legal options are available. Mark A. Hammer & Associates, Inc., has helped victims with spinal cord injuries through western Washington and Puget Sound for three decades.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Puget Sound Automobile Accidents
Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. In fact, 40% of all new cases of spinal cord injury each year are caused by automobile accidents. There is no single reason why automobile accidents are the leading cause. Rather, it is the combination of several factors that provide this result. Some of these factors include:
- Severe trauma to the spinal cord upon impact in a collision
- Crushing of the spinal cord in a rollover accidents
- Contorting of the spinal cord upon ejection from a vehicle in an accident
Typical Complications Associated with Back Injuries
Complications associated with a given spinal cord injury will vary from case to case. The following are some of the more common difficulties:
- Loss of control over certain bodily functions − The brain communicates with the rest of the body through the spinal cord. A spinal cord injury can disrupt this communication, leaving the brain unable to communicate as well. The most well known functions affected are the ability to control the bladder or bowel movement.
- Overall health − A spinal cord injuries—like fractures—can limit the ability to exercise in whole or in part. In either case, victims are vulnerable to health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, like obesity, diabetes, and more.
- Depression − Similar to amputations, injuries to the spinal cord are life changing, and many victims have difficulty accepting that consequence. As a result, many victims report feeling symptoms of depression.
Speak with a Proven Tacoma Automobile Accident Injury Attorney Today
Mark A. Hammer & Associates, Inc., has helped spinal cord injury victims throughout western Washington and Puget Sound for 30 years. Contact our office today for a free initial consultation if you or someone you love has suffered a spinal cord injury in an auto accident.
