You know the importance of your body’s most critical organs: The heart, brain, lungs, and many others are responsible for basic functions, and your life would be changed forever if they were harmed by trauma. The medical definition of an organ is any part of the body that carries out special functions, but the spinal cord is sometimes not included on the list. The Resource Center for Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries offers two opinions on the matter:
- The spinal cord is a group of nerves that serves as a messaging center between the brain and parts of the body, but it does not have a direct impact on other organs.
- Due to its common tissue throughout and functioning as a unit to support the rest of the body, the spinal cord is an organ – similar to skin.
For victims of spinal cord injuries, the results of the debate are not as pressing as the long-term complications. The losses can be considerable, especially when the trauma impacts mobility. A
Miami catastrophic injuries lawyer can explain legal options to recoup for these losses, though some additional information is helpful.
How Spinal Cord Injuries Happen
Harm to the spine typically occurs because of accidents, most of which are linked to negligence. The term has a specific meaning in the practice of law, since negligence is actually a theory of liability. To recover monetary damages, you must prove that your spinal cord injuries were the result of someone’s failure to exercise reasonable care. It may be helpful to review some examples of negligence and how it leads to spinal cord injuries.
- Car and truck collisions are often caused by speeding, running red lights, or driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Bicycle and pedestrian accidents are commonly linked to distracted driving.
- Failure to yield is behind many motorcycle crashes, especially when careless motorists do not look for smaller vehicles.
- Property and business owners are required to maintain their premises in reasonably safe condition, and their neglect to do so leads to slip and fall accidents.
Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries
The nature of spinal cord injuries is a product of the severity of the trauma and location of the impact. In general, the consequences are more serious when the injuries are higher up on the back; they are also worse for a complete versus incomplete spinal cord injury. For a lower spinal cord injury affecting the lumbar region, a victim may experience weakness or tingling sensation in the extremities. Trauma to the cervical spine could mean paralysis or quadriplegia, so many victims will require care for the rest of their lives.
Fortunately, when you have evidence of negligence, you can recover for:
- Medical costs;
- Lost wages and future business opportunities;
- Pain and suffering; and,
- Many other losses.
Call Now to Speak to a Miami Catastrophic Injuries Attorney
If you suffered a spinal cord injury, time is of the essence to retain skilled legal representation. Our team at Gerson & Schwartz, PA are ready to support your needs, so please contact us today. We can schedule a free consultation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL.