The Real-World Consequences of Spinal Cord Injuries: More Than Just a Medical Diagnosis

First and foremost, spinal cord injuries bring a host of physical challenges that can’t be overstated. From battling respiratory problems to adjusting to life as a paraplegic, the challenges are as diverse as they are profound and life-altering.

But the ripple effects don’t stop at your physical well-being. Consider this: about 30% of people with spinal cord injuries are re-hospitalized within a year, elevating the costs. And when it comes to employment, the outlook is equally daunting. Only 13% find themselves back at work a year after the injury, and that number only rises to about a third 20 years later. This isn’t just about job opportunities; it’s about lost wages and the financial strain that puts on you and your family.

We understand the full scope of your challenges—physical, emotional, and financial. We’re committed to fighting for a settlement that addresses each of these aspects, so you can focus on what’s most important: your recovery and future.

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Indiana

Spinal cord injuries are often the result of diverse types of unexpected accidents. Some common causes include:

Victims of spinal cord injuries are able to recover compensation that covers the extent of their injuries and damages if they have proper legal support. This makes the recovery process a lot easier by lightening the stress and financial burden such injuries pose on people.

What Are the Common Types of Spinal Injuries?

The spinal cord plays a vital role in sending messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When this connection is disrupted due to injury, everyday activities become challenging or even impossible. Spinal cord injuries can lead to lifelong health complications and require extensive medical care.

Here are some common types of spinal cord injuries that our attorneys handle:

  • Paraplegia: This occurs when the spinal cord is damaged, leading to complete or partial paralysis of the lower body.
  • Quadriplegia: Typically caused by damage to the spinal cord in the neck region, this injury results in a loss of movement and sensation in both the arms and legs.
  • Hemiparesis: Paralysis affecting one side of the body, most commonly due to a stroke.

No matter how severe the injury, our attorneys are dedicated to pursuing the results you need to secure your future and recovery.

Damages You Can Recover in Indiana After a Spinal Cord Injury

In Indiana, the law provides a framework for victims to claim a wide array of damages, from immediate medical expenses to long-term care and even emotional suffering. But knowing what you’re entitled to is just the first step; the real challenge lies in successfully navigating the legal system to secure these damages.

As your attorney, we will guide you through every legal hurdle to ensure you receive the comprehensive compensation you deserve. According to Indiana Code § 34-51-2, the damages you can recover include:

Medical Expenses

Spinal cord injuries often involve extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. Unluckily, these costs can quickly turn into several figures. That’s why it’s important to build a case that accounts for all present and future medical expenses, ensuring you’re not burdened by the financial strain of your injury.

Lost Income

Lost income refers to the financial damages caused by an inability to work. Victims of spinal cord injury can recover compensation that covers both past and future lost wages.

To achieve this, a personal injury attorney must calculate the amount of lost income you’re entitled to, which will in turn allow you to focus on your recovery without worrying about financial stability.

Pain and Suffering

In addition to physical pain, spinal cord injuries can result in emotional distress, PTSD, and a diminished quality of life. Luckily, under Indiana laws, it’s possible to secure compensation for these intangible losses.

Loss of Consortium

This type of damage refers to the effects a spinal cord injury can have on your relationships and emotional well-being. This means partners of spinal cord victims have the right to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and other relationship benefits.

Punitive Damages

In cases where spinal cord injuries are the result of intentional or reckless behavior, punitive damages may be applicable. This type of damage is covered under Indiana Code § 34-51-3.

To reclaim compensation for punitive damages, it’s necessary to conduct a thorough investigation of your case to determine if it’s possible to prove liability and hold the responsible parties accountable.

Calculating Full Damages for Spinal Cord Injuries

Paralysis leads to significant financial burdens that require substantial compensation to address lifelong needs, including:

  • Medical costs: Emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
  • Future expenses: Assistive devices, home modifications, and rising medical costs.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for lost earning capacity, both current and future.
  • Emotional trauma: Pain, suffering, and diminished quality of life.

Our Fort Wayne spinal cord injury attorneys work with medical and economic experts to accurately calculate every financial aspect, including future care and home modifications. We also account for lost future earnings and the emotional toll of the injury. While no settlement can undo paralysis, we pursue compensation to help you regain peace of mind and improve your quality of life.

The Legal Process After Seeking a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in Fort Wayne

If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury in Fort Wayne, there are several steps you need to take in order to seek compensation:

Step 1: Filing a Lawsuit

To initiate a lawsuit for a spinal cord injury case, you need to ensure all necessary documentation and evidence are meticulously prepared to build a strong case. If you’re working with a personal injury attorney, they will help you understand the legal process, comply with the paperwork, and file a lawsuit on your behalf.

Step 2: Discovery

The discovery process plays a crucial role in revealing key facts and evidence that will support your lawsuit. Here, both you and the opposing party will exchange information and evidence related to the case.

At this stage, it’s important to ensure all relevant evidence is presented and that a thorough investigation is conducted.

Step 3: Settlement or Trial

As your case progresses, you’ll have different resolution options. This is where a Fort Wayne spinal cord injury lawyer can provide invaluable advice on whether to pursue a settlement or proceed to trial, always keeping your best interests in mind. With an approach that aligns with your unique circumstances, it’s possible to recover compensation for your injuries and damages.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for a Spinal Injury Lawsuit in Indiana?

In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including spinal injury cases, is two years from the date of the injury. If you do not file your claim within this time frame, you risk losing your right to pursue legal action and have your case heard in court. Acting quickly is essential to ensure you preserve your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

How Much Does a Fort Wayne Spinal Injury Lawyer Cost?

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our spinal cord injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t pay any upfront costs or hourly fees. We only get paid if we successfully recover compensation for you, with our fees coming as a percentage of your settlement or court award.

This structure ensures that our payment is directly tied to maximizing your recovery, allowing you to focus on healing while we handle the legal complexities without adding financial stress.

Contact Our Fort Wayne Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers To Protect Your Interests

The uniqueness of spinal cord injury cases requires specialized legal expertise. Having a personal injury attorney by your side ensures that your rights are protected and that you’re able to navigate the legal process effectively, even in the face of challenging circumstances.

We can help you understand what your legal options are according to Indiana laws, helping you secure the maximum compensation possible for your damages. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we have over 40 years of experience in personal injury cases, and this expertise ensures your case will be handled comprehensively and effectively.

Let us do the heavy lifting while you focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation!