Fishers Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

The spinal cord plays a pivotal role in the human body, acting as the primary channel for communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to this essential bundle of nerves can lead to significant consequences for residents of Fishers, Indiana, such as impaired mobility, organ failure, paralysis, or even death.

Experiencing a spine injury is undoubtedly life-changing, but securing compensation for your suffering and losses isn’t automatic. You need to establish that the defendant’s negligence directly caused your injury. Furthermore, the defense may try to shift some blame onto you, complicating the legal process.

The experienced Fishers spinal cord injury lawyers at SLG Accident Attorneys are here to help you through these challenges. We conduct thorough investigations, accurately assess your damages, and strive to hold all responsible parties accountable. If you or someone you know has endured a spinal cord injury, reach out to us for a free consultation, and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

What Are The Most Common Types of Spinal Injuries in Fishers, Indiana?

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) frequently arise from various traumatic events. Vehicle accidents are the leading cause, accounting for more than 38% of SCI cases, closely followed by falls at roughly 31%. Acts of violence, primarily gunshot wounds, contribute to around 13% of cases, while sports-related injuries account for a little more than 8%.

Non-traumatic causes, including cancer, osteoporosis, spinal tumors, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord inflammation, arthritis, spinal stenosis, and blood loss, also contribute to spinal cord injuries.

Types and Levels Injuries to the Spine

The spinal cord is crucial for relaying messages between the brain and the body. When you or a loved one suffers a spinal cord injury, it can result in a loss of essential bodily functions due to the disruption in nerve communication with the brain. Understanding the various types and levels of spinal cord injuries can help in managing and treating these injuries effectively.

Spinal cord injuries are generally classified into two types: complete and incomplete.

• Complete Spinal Cord Injury: This type causes permanent damage to the affected area of the spinal cord, often resulting in paraplegia or tetraplegia.
• Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: This type refers to partial damage to the spinal cord. The extent of mobility and sensation retained depends on the location and severity of the injury. Recovery outcomes vary based on the patient’s overall health and medical history.

Levels of Injuries Involving The Spinal Cord

The spinal cord is divided into four main sections, each responsible for different bodily functions. The level of injury significantly impacts the severity and type of dysfunction experienced.

1. Cervical Spine Injuries: These injuries affect the neck region and are the most severe, potentially resulting in quadriplegia. Symptoms may include loss of sensory and motor functions in the arms, legs, and trunk.
2. Thoracic Spine Injuries: These injuries impact the upper chest, mid-back, and abdominal muscles. Individuals may retain normal arm and hand function but experience paraplegia affecting the lower body.
3. Lumbar Spine Injuries: These injuries affect the hips and legs, possibly requiring a wheelchair or walking aids.
4. Sacral Spine Injuries: These injuries impact the pelvic region, including the hips, thighs, buttocks, and pelvic organs. Most individuals with sacral injuries can walk, although they may experience some loss of function in these areas.

Understanding the type and level of a spinal cord injury is essential for determining the appropriate medical treatment and the potential legal recourse.

For immediate legal assistance from an experienced spinal cord injury attorney in Fishers, Indiana, contact our law firm today. We offer free case evaluations.

How Do Spine Injuries in Fishers Occur?

Spinal cord injuries in Fishers, Indiana, can stem from a variety of causes. Some of the most common include:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car accidents, truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for nearly half of new cases annually. The significant impact during collisions can cause severe spinal damage.
• Falls: Particularly among individuals over 65, falls are a major cause of spinal injuries. Slip and fall accidents from significant heights or even at ground level can result in serious spinal trauma.
• Acts of Violence: Approximately 12% of spinal cord injuries are due to violent encounters, often from gunshot or knife wounds.
• Sports and Recreational Activities: High-impact sports and activities, such as football or diving into shallow water, contribute to about 10% of spinal cord injuries.
• Diseases: Conditions like cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, and inflammation of the spinal cord can lead to spinal injuries.

Spinal cord injuries can also result from medical malpractice, such as errors during spinal or back surgery. Accidents on construction sites, or other workplace accidents, particularly in physically demanding jobs, can also cause significant spinal damage.

To learn more about the leading causes of spine injuries and to determine if you have a claim, reach out to an experienced Fishers spinal cord injury lawyer at SLG Accident Attorneys today. We offer free consultations and are never to busy to speak with you.

Who Are Some of The Parties Who Can Be Held Liable For a Spinal Cord Injury in Fishers, Indiana?

Identifying the parties responsible for a spinal cord injury is crucial for securing compensation. Various entities can be held liable depending on the specifics of the incident:

• Drivers: If the spinal cord injury resulted from a motor vehicle accident, the driver at fault can be held responsible for the damages incurred.
• Employers: When a spinal injury happens at work, the employer may be liable, especially if they failed to provide a safe working environment or adequate training.
• Property Owners: In cases of slip and fall accidents, property owners can be accountable if they neglect to maintain safe premises, such as fixing poor lighting or unstable handrails. In the event of an injury owing to the negligence of a property owner, you may have grounds for a premises liability claim in Fishers, Indiana.
• Medical Professionals: Spinal cord injuries can also stem from medical malpractice. In such cases, the medical professionals or facilities responsible for the surgical errors or negligence can be held liable.
• Manufacturers: If a defective product causes a spinal cord injury, the manufacturer can be held responsible for failing to ensure the product’s safety.

Determining liability often involves a thorough investigation of the incident. At SLG Accident Attorneys, our skilled Fishers spinal cord injury lawyers delve deeply into the evidence to identify all parties responsible for your injury. Whether the liable party is an individual, a business, or an institution, our team is committed to pursuing the compensation you deserve.

How Do I Know If I Have a Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit in Fishers, Indiana?

Determining whether you have a valid spine injury lawsuit involves several key factors. Not every spinal cord injury leads to a lawsuit, but if certain conditions are met, you may be entitled to seek compensation. Here’s what to consider:

• Negligence: To pursue a spine injury lawsuit, you must establish that your injury was due to someone else’s negligence or wrongful actions. For instance, if you were rear-ended in a car accident and the impact caused your spinal injury, you could hold the other driver accountable. This extends beyond car accidents to any situation where the responsible party failed to meet a duty of care, resulting in your injury.
• Defective Products: If a defective product caused your spinal injury, you might have a case against the manufacturer. Examples include faulty airbags, seatbelts, tires, or even medical devices. The manufacturer’s failure to ensure product safety before release can be grounds for a lawsuit.
• Injury Extent and Damages: The severity of your injury and its impact on your life are critical. You must show that the injury resulted in significant damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The more substantial the impact, the stronger your case.
• Causation: There must be a clear link between the negligent action and your spinal injury. Proving causation is crucial, as it directly connects the defendant’s actions to your damages.

Indiana’s Comparative Negligence Accident Laws

Indiana follows a comparative negligence system, which affects how damages are awarded in personal injury cases. Under this system, you can recover damages even if you are partially at fault for the accident, as long as you are not more than 50% responsible. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot collect damages.

For example, if you are 10% at fault for the accident that caused your spinal injury, you can still recover 90% of the damages. This means that if your total damages amount to $100,000, you would be eligible to receive $90,000 from the other party’s insurance.

Understanding these factors can help you determine whether you have a viable spinal cord injury lawsuit. Consulting with a skilled and experienced Fishers spinal cord injury attorney can provide further clarity and guidance. Our legal team can help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

What Are Some of The Costs of a Spinal Injury in Fishers, Indiana?

Dealing with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury can be financially overwhelming due to the extensive and ongoing medical care required. Working with an experienced Fishers spinal cord injury lawyer is essential to ensure you receive compensation for these significant expenses.

Here are some of the common medical costs associated with spinal cord injuries:

Diagnosis of Spinal Cord Damage:

• CT Scans are essential for a detailed view of the spinal cord and surrounding structures.
• MRI Scans: Provide a comprehensive image of the spinal cord to assess the extent of the damage.
• Physical Exams: Regular evaluations to monitor the injury and its impact on bodily functions.

Spinal Cord Injury Treatments:

• Surgery: Necessary for repairing damaged spinal tissue and stabilizing the spine.
• Medications: Prescribed to manage pain, inflammation, and other symptoms.
• Traction: Used to align and stabilize the spine.
• Support Devices: Includes splints, braces, and halos to aid in recovery and mobility.

These medical interventions can incur substantial costs, which is why working with a knowledgeable legal representative who can help you secure compensation is crucial. Future medical needs must also be considered, as ongoing care may be required.

Potentially Responsible Parties:

Depending on the specifics of your case, several parties may be liable for your injuries. These can include:

• Negligent Drivers: Responsible for car accidents causing spinal injuries.
• Employers: If a work-related incident led to the injury.
• Manufacturers: When defective products contribute to spinal injuries.

Types of Recoverable Damages:

An experienced Fishers spinal cord injury attorney will help you seek compensation for a wide range of losses, including:

• Medical Bills: Covering emergency treatment, hospitalization, ICU stays, surgeries, and more.
• Rehabilitation and Follow-up Care: Essential for recovery and managing long-term impacts.
• Medical Equipment: Such as wheelchairs and adaptive devices for home use.
• Home Health Care: Providing necessary support for daily living activities.
• Future Medical Care: Accounting for ongoing treatment and potential complications.
• Lost Income: Compensating for the inability to return to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Addressing the emotional and physical toll of the injury.
• Permanent Disability: Ensuring long-term financial support for severe, life-altering injuries.

How is Fault Established in a Fishers Spinal Injury Lawsuit?

Pursuing compensation for a spinal cord injury requires a solid case backed by proof of another party’s negligence. Whether you’re filing a personal injury claim or a lawsuit, demonstrating fault is essential to secure the compensation you deserve.

Insurance companies often employ tactics to dispute claims and reduce settlement amounts, making it crucial to work with an experienced spinal cord injury attorney. Your attorney will advocate for your rights, guiding you through the legal process and helping you gather the necessary evidence to support your claim.

Key Evidence to Establish Fault:

• Photographic Evidence: Photos or videos from the accident scene can provide crucial insights into the cause and impact of the incident.
• Physical Evidence: Examining the damage to vehicles and any involved property helps establish the nature and severity of the incident.
• Medical Records: Detailed documentation of your injuries and treatments is essential to link the accident to your spinal cord injury.
• Doctor’s Statements: Expert opinions from medical professionals can clarify the extent of your injuries and their long-term impact.
• Medical Bills: Comprehensive records of your medical expenses demonstrate the financial burden of your injury.
• Eyewitness Statements: Testimonies from those who witnessed the accident can corroborate your account of events.
• Police Accident Reports: Official reports provide an unbiased account of the incident and can support your claim of negligence.

Steps to Proving Negligence:

1. Evidence Collection: A thorough investigation to gather all relevant documentation and physical proof.
2. Proving Negligence: Demonstrating that the defendant’s actions were careless or reckless and directly caused your spinal cord injury.
3. Expert Testimony: Using medical and accident reconstruction experts to explain the severity of your injury and how it occurred.
4. Legal Representation: Partnering with a skilled Fishers personal injury lawyer who specializes in spinal cord injury claims who can navigate the legal complexities and build a compelling case.

Establishing fault in a spine injury lawsuit requires a deep understanding of both legal and medical aspects. With the right legal assistance, you can focus on your recovery while your attorney handles the intricacies of your case.

How Much Will I Be Compensated For a Spinal Injury in Fishers, Indiana?

Determining the exact compensation for a spinal cord injury can be complex and depends on the specifics of each case. However, here are some general estimates based on the type and severity of the injury:

Cervical Spine Injuries
Compensation for cervical spine injuries typically ranges from $5,000 to $50,000. For soft tissue neck injuries, the amounts usually fall between $5,000 and $20,000. In cases involving disc injuries in the neck, compensation can reach up to $200,000 or more. Working with a skilled Fishers spinal cord injury attorney can help ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your specific situation.

Compression Fractures
Spinal compression fractures, often resulting from auto accidents or slip-and-fall incidents, can lead to settlements from $10,000 to $100,000 or more. The exact amount will depend on the severity of the fracture and the impact on your daily life. A Fishers spinal cord injury lawyer can provide a detailed case evaluation to estimate your potential compensation accurately.

Herniated Disc Injuries
Herniated disc injuries can vary significantly in compensation, usually ranging from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The severity of the injury and associated losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages, play a crucial role in determining the final amount. Consulting with a spinal cord injury attorney in Fishers can help clarify the potential value of your case.

Bulging Disc Injuries
In auto accident cases resulting in bulging disc injuries, compensation typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000. The exact amount will depend on the specific details of the injury and its impact on your life. A Fishers spinal cord injury lawyer can help you build a strong case to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Failed Back Surgery
If you or a loved one has suffered from a failed back surgery due to surgical error, negligence, or malpractice, you may be entitled to compensation. Medical malpractice claims are often complex and time-consuming, but an experienced spinal cord injury attorney can guide you through the process and ensure you have the best chance of success.

Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the highest-paying personal injury claims due to the severity of the impact on the plaintiff’s life. Compensation amounts can vary greatly but often reach $1 million or more, depending on the extent of the injury and the associated losses. An experienced Fishers spinal cord injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Experienced Back Injury Lawyers in Fishers, Indiana

At SLG Accident Attorneys, we bring a wealth of experience and dedication to handling spinal cord injury cases in Fishers, Indiana. Our legal team is committed to advocating for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

With a deep understanding of the complexities involved in spinal cord injury claims, we meticulously examine every detail of your case to build a compelling argument. From initial consultation to final resolution, we are here to support you through every step of the legal process.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, trust SLG Accident Attorneys to provide the expert guidance and relentless pursuit of justice that you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards reclaiming your future.

Locations which our Indiana back injury attorneys serves include Indianapolis, Carmel, Noblesville, Greenwood, and more.