Spinal injuries are some of the most serious and life-altering injuries that someone can experience after an accident. These injuries can have long-term effects on a person’s life, impacting their ability to move, work, and even take care of themselves. In Georgia, spinal injury accident cases can be particularly complex due to the many factors that need to be considered. If you or someone you know has suffered a spinal injury in an accident, it’s important to understand the basic elements of these cases and what you can do to protect your rights. At, Nimmons Malchow Johnson Injury Lawyers, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
What Causes Spinal Injuries in Accidents?
Spinal injuries can happen in many different ways, but they are often the result of accidents that involve sudden force or impact. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of spinal injuries. When vehicles collide, the force can be so powerful that it damages the spinal cord, leading to severe injuries. Motorcycle accidents are another common cause, as riders are more exposed and vulnerable to injury when they are thrown from their bikes. Other accidents that can lead to spinal injuries include slip and fall incidents, workplace accidents, and even sports-related injuries.
In many cases, spinal injuries occur because of the negligence of another person or party. For example, a driver may be speeding or driving under the influence, causing a crash that leads to spinal injuries. In other cases, a property owner may fail to maintain safe conditions on their premises, resulting in someone slipping, falling, and injuring their spine. Understanding how and why the spinal injury happened is an important part of pursuing a claim for compensation.
Types of Spinal Injuries
There are several types of spinal injuries that can occur as a result of an accident. These injuries are often categorized by the part of the spine that is affected and the severity of the damage. One of the most common types of spinal injury is a herniated disc. This happens when one of the discs that cushion the vertebrae in the spine becomes damaged, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Another type of injury is a spinal fracture, which occurs when one or more of the bones in the spine break or crack. Spinal fractures can cause significant pain and may require surgery to repair.
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The most severe type of spinal injury is a spinal cord injury. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs through the spine, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in partial or complete paralysis. Paralysis can be classified as either paraplegia, which affects the lower body, or quadriplegia, which affects both the upper and lower body. Spinal cord injuries are often permanent, and individuals with these injuries may require lifelong medical care and assistance.
Symptoms of Spinal Injuries
The symptoms of a spinal injury can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the location of the injury. In many cases, symptoms may not be immediately apparent after an accident. Some people may feel fine immediately following the incident, only to develop symptoms hours or even days later. Common symptoms of spinal injuries include severe pain in the neck, back, or shoulders, as well as numbness or tingling in the limbs. In more serious cases, individuals may experience difficulty moving or walking, loss of bladder or bowel control, or paralysis.
It’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible after an accident, even if you do not feel injured right away. A doctor can perform tests such as X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to determine if there is any damage to the spine. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of recovery and prevent further complications.
They made everything easy for me! Even when I lost faith in the car accident where a drunk driver hit me, they helped me through every process. They were quick as they could be and made everything easier for me while being in the process of my move to Japan for the Navy, full time student, and planning my own wedding. I appreciated the help. Thank you!” - Julissa Evans I had the pleasure of allowing Mr. Leland Malchow to represent my case and I would recommend 10star rating if possible. Not only was Mr. Leland very professional and knowledgeable, he also took the time to listen to my frustrations about my situation. He offered a listening ear, as well as some kind motivational advice. Our relationship has been through business only but I would extend a hand to him and the law firm from here on out. Thank you all and God Bless." - Chris Rowland Chris Johnson is an exceptional attorney for car wreck cases. His expertise, clear communication, thorough preparation, and effective negotiation skills led to a favorable outcome. With compassion and support, he guided me through the process, making him highly recommended for anyone in need of a skilled legal advocate." - Jayko Robinett
Legal Options for Spinal Injury Victims
If you have suffered a spinal injury due to the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. In Georgia, individuals who are injured in accidents caused by someone else’s negligence can file a personal injury claim to seek damages. These damages may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. The goal of a personal injury claim is to help the injured person recover financially so that they can focus on their physical recovery.
In spinal injury cases, medical expenses can be particularly high. Victims may require surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care. In addition, spinal injuries can result in long-term or permanent disability, which can affect a person’s ability to work and support themselves. Because of the potential for high costs, it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the complexities of spinal injury cases and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Proving Negligence in a Spinal Injury Case
In order to recover compensation for a spinal injury, the injured person must prove that the other party was negligent and that their negligence caused the injury. Negligence occurs when someone fails to act with reasonable care, resulting in harm to another person. For example, a driver who is texting while driving and causes an accident may be considered negligent. Similarly, a property owner who fails to repair a broken staircase that leads to a fall may also be considered negligent.
To prove negligence in a spinal injury case, you will need to show that the other party had a duty to act with care, that they breached this duty, and that their breach caused your injury. This often requires gathering evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and testimony. An experienced attorney can help you collect and present this evidence in order to build a strong case.
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The Importance of Seeking Legal Help
Navigating a spinal injury case can be challenging, especially when you are dealing with the physical and emotional effects of your injury. Having a skilled attorney by your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. A knowledgeable attorney can handle the legal aspects of your claim, including negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court if necessary. They can also ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
In spinal injury cases, time is often of the essence. In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations that limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim. If you wait too long, you may lose your right to seek compensation. That’s why it’s important to contact an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. The sooner you seek legal help, the sooner you can begin the process of recovering the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Long-Term Effects of Spinal Injuries
One of the most difficult aspects of spinal injuries is the long-term impact they can have on a person’s life. In many cases, spinal injury victims face a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation. They may need assistive devices such as wheelchairs or walkers to move around, and they may require modifications to their home to accommodate their new needs. In addition, individuals with spinal injuries may experience chronic pain, limited mobility, and emotional challenges such as depression or anxiety.
The financial impact of a spinal injury can also be significant. Medical bills can quickly add up, especially if the injured person requires surgery, physical therapy, or long-term care. In addition, many spinal injury victims are unable to work, either temporarily or permanently, which can make it difficult to support themselves and their families. For these reasons, it’s crucial to seek compensation that fully reflects the long-term costs of the injury.
What to Do After a Spinal Injury Accident
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury in an accident, there are several steps you can take to protect your health and your legal rights. First, seek medical attention immediately, even if you do not feel injured right away. Spinal injuries can be serious, and early treatment can make a big difference in your recovery. Second, gather as much information as you can about the accident, including taking photos, collecting contact information from witnesses, and obtaining a copy of the accident report.
It’s also important to avoid speaking with insurance companies without first consulting an attorney. Insurance companies may try to offer you a settlement that is much lower than what you deserve. An attorney can help you understand your rights and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. Finally, contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue the compensation you need to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury in an accident, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. The team at Nimmons Malchow Johnson Injury Lawyers is here to help. With years of experience handling personal injury cases in Georgia, we are committed to fighting for the rights of spinal injury victims and helping them recover the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe any legal fees unless we secure a successful outcome for your claim.