Spinal cord injuries are life-altering events that can have devastating effects on victims and their families. These injuries often lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, and a reduced quality of life. When spinal cord injuries occur due to the negligence of another party, it is crucial for the victim and their family to seek legal assistance from experienced McAllen spinal cord injury lawyers. These legal professionals can help ensure that the responsible party is held accountable and that the victim receives the compensation they need to move forward with their life.
The Adley Law Firm: Your Trusted McAllen Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys
The Adley Law Firm is a team of experienced and compassionate McAllen spinal cord injury attorneys who are dedicated to helping their clients receive the compensation they deserve. With a strong track record of success in handling spinal cord injury cases, The Adley Law Firm has the experience and knowledge necessary to effectively represent clients in McAllen and surrounding areas.
Spinal Cord Injury Explained: Types and Symptoms
Spinal cord injuries occur when damage is sustained to the spinal cord, which is a bundle of nerves that runs down the middle of the back and transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. This damage can result in a loss of function, sensation, and mobility below the level of the injury.
Spinal cord injuries are categorized as either complete or incomplete. In a complete injury, there is a total loss of function and sensation below the level of the injury. In an incomplete injury, there is some degree of function and sensation remaining.
Forms of paralysis resulting from spinal cord injuries include quadriplegia/tetraplegia and paraplegia. Quadriplegia/tetraplegia affects all four limbs and the trunk, while paraplegia affects only the lower limbs and trunk.
Signs and symptoms of spinal cord injuries can vary greatly depending on the severity and location of the injury. Some common symptoms include:
- Loss of movement or sensation in limbs
- Difficulty breathing, coughing, or clearing secretions from the lungs
- Pain, numbness, or tingling in extremities
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Spasms or exaggerated reflexes
- Difficulty maintaining body temperature
Prevalent Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in McAllen
Spinal cord injuries can result from a variety of causes, with some of the most common being:
- Vehicular accidents
- Falls
- Sports and recreation accidents
- Acts of violence (e.g., gunshot wounds or stab wounds)
- Medical malpractice or surgical errors
In many cases, these incidents are the result of negligence on the part of another person or entity. When this is the case, it is important for the victim and their family to seek legal representation from a skilled McAllen spinal cord injury attorney to ensure their rights are protected.
Medical and Rehabilitation Approaches for Spinal Cord Injuries
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for spinal cord injuries, and treatment options are limited. The primary focus of medical care for spinal cord injuries is to stabilize the patient, prevent shock, support respiratory function, and avoid complications such as blood clots, infection, or pressure ulcers.
Early stage treatments may include medications to reduce inflammation and swelling, immobilization with a brace or traction, and surgical procedures to remove bone fragments or stabilize the spine.
Rehabilitation is an essential aspect of spinal cord injury treatment, as it helps patients regain as much function and independence as possible. This may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and the use of adaptive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, and electronic aids.
Pursuing Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries in McAllen
When a spinal cord injury is the result of another party’s negligence, it is important for the victim and their family to consult with an experienced McAllen personal injury attorney. A skilled lawyer can help determine the best course of action for pursuing compensation, which may include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium (in cases where the injury has affected the victim’s relationship with their spouse or partner)
- Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm)
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Injuries
Below are ten common questions related to spinal cord injuries, along with brief answers and resources for further information:
- What is the difference between a complete and an incomplete spinal cord injury?
A complete spinal cord injury results in a total loss of function and sensation below the level of the injury, while an incomplete injury allows for some degree of function and sensation to remain. - What is the difference between quadriplegia/tetraplegia and paraplegia?
Quadriplegia/tetraplegia affects all four limbs and the trunk, while paraplegia affects only the lower limbs and trunk. - Can spinal cord injuries be reversed or cured?
Currently, there is no cure for spinal cord injuries, and treatment options are limited to stabilization, prevention of complications, and rehabilitation. - How long does it take to recover from a spinal cord injury?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health. Some people may experience significant improvements within the first year, while others may continue to make progress for several years. - What types of adaptive devices are available for spinal cord injury patients?
Adaptive devices can include wheelchairs, braces, electronic aids, and specialized equipment for daily living activities. - What is the life expectancy for someone with a spinal cord injury?
Life expectancy varies depending on the severity of the injury and other factors such as age and overall health. Advances in medical care and rehabilitation have led to improved life expectancies for spinal cord injury patients in recent years. - How much does it cost to treat and care for someone with a spinal cord injury?
The cost of care for a spinal cord injury patient can be extremely high, often reaching into the millions of dollars over the course of a lifetime. - Can I sue for a spinal cord injury caused by someone else’s negligence?
Yes, if your spinal cord injury was caused by the negligence of another party, you may be entitled to compensation. Consult with an experienced McAllen spinal cord injury lawyer to discuss your case. - What types of damages can I recover in a spinal cord injury lawsuit?
Potential damages in a spinal cord injury lawsuit may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and punitive damages. - How long do I have to file a spinal cord injury lawsuit?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, there may be exceptions or specific deadlines depending on the circumstances of your case. Consult with a knowledgeable McAllen spinal cord injury attorney to ensure you meet all necessary deadlines.
Reach Out to The Adley Law Firm: McAllen Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to the negligence of another party, The Adley Law Firm is here to help. Our experienced McAllen spinal cord injury lawyers are skilled in handling cases involving vehicular accidents, falls, sports injuries, acts of violence, and medical malpractice. We are committed to providing compassionate and aggressive representation to our clients, working tirelessly to secure the compensation they deserve.
