Paraplegia is a type of paralysis where there is a complete or incomplete loss of function in the lower part of the body or legs due to a spinal injury. It can include not only loss of sensation, but also pain or stinging, loss of bowel control, muscle spasms and a shorter lifespan. Paraplegia can result from an accident involving the negligence of another including a car accident, slip and fall or motorcycle accident. However this type of injury can also be due to a slip and fall, fall from a ladder or a construction site accident. If you are a victim of paraplegia due to the negligence of another, contact a New York paraplegia lawyer from Stephen Bilkis and Associates without delay. You have a right to receive compensation for your injuries which can include reimbursement for medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering.
Common causes of paraplegiaParalysis is the loss or impairment of voluntary muscular power. While paralysis can occur from damage to the nervous system, it is also caused by a traumatic injury to the spinal cord that crushes, fractures, or dislocates one or more of its vertebrae. This type of catastrophic injury often occurs in a construction accident such as where a worker falls from a high elevation. Spine injuries that lead to paraplegia also happen in a car, motorcycle, or bike accidents when the victim is thrown from the vehicle. Sadly, in most cases the accident that resulted in paralysis was due to negligence and could have been avoided.
Symptoms of paraplegiaThe symptoms of paraplegia will depend on the site of the injury to the spinal cord. Symptoms of paraplegia can include:
While many people report that they are recovered to the extent that they can return to work in some capacity, a majority of them cannot. Then vital income is lost and medical bills quickly begin to sky rocket. When a severe spinal injury occurs, often the largest bills occur within the first year of treatment. Often surgery is required, as well as physical therapy, special equipment and home modifications may be necessary. During the first year after the injury, one of the primary goals will be to ensure that there is no further damage of inflammation. Usually special anti-inflammatory drugs are used within the first 8 hours for the best long term results. Where a vertebra has been crushed or broken, doctors may decide to implant a steel rod to stabilize the spine.
Rehabilitation and long term care will depend on the severity of the injury. Often at this time a combination of physical and occupational therapies can be used to preserve and strengthen the muscles. Therapy is also important to help the victim move around more freely and resume their daily activities. Other therapies that may be used include respiratory therapy, drug therapy, and mental health care.
Pursuing a claimIf your paraplegia resulted from another person's negligence, New York law allows you to pursue damages through a personal injury claim. That person may be ordered to pay for your emergency room visit, surgery, rehabilitation, visits to the doctor, medication, assistive equipment and other related medical expenses. Because paraplegia will require lifelong care that includes special equipment and rehabilitation services, your compensation will take into account not only your past medical bills, but also your future medical expenses. In addition, the negligent party may be liable for other economic losses you sustained such as lost wages or loss of earning capacity. Furthermore, a court may award you non-economic damages such as pain and suffering or punitive damages.
New York Paraplegia LawyerIf you or a loved one was injured in an accident that resulted in temporary or permanent paralysis contact an experienced attorney who understands both the legal issues associated with personal injury cases as well as the medical issues associated with paraplegia and other types of paralysis. Stephen Bilkis and Associates is experienced in handling personal injury cases stemming from auto, truck, motorcycle, boat, and construction accidents. Contact us at 800.696.9529 to schedule a free, no obligation consultation regarding your case.