New York Spine Injuries Attorney

Get Legal Representation from the Top Spine Injury Attorneys in New York at Shalom Law

Spine injuries can have devastating and life-altering consequences, affecting every aspect of a person’s life. From the ability to move and perform everyday tasks to long-term health and financial stability, the impact is profound. At Shalom Law, our experienced spine injury attorneys in New York, are dedicated to helping victims navigate the complex legal landscape to secure the compensation they deserve. Serving clients across Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, Staten Island, Nassau County, Suffolk County, and parts of Upstate New York, we provide comprehensive legal representation tailored to your specific needs.

Facts and Statistics about Spinal Injuries

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most severe types of injuries one can sustain. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), approximately 18,000 new spinal cord injury cases occur each year in the United States. The primary causes of these injuries include motor vehicle accidents, falls, acts of violence, and sports-related activities.

• High Incidence: Each year, there are thousands of new cases of spinal cord injuries are reported in the U.S.
• Common Causes: Motor vehicle accidents, falls, violence, and sports activities are leading causes of SCIs.
• Lifetime Costs: The lifetime costs for a person with a spinal cord injury can range from $1.2 million to $4.7 million, depending on the severity of the injury.

Common Causes of Spine Injuries

Spine injuries can occur due to various incidents, often resulting from another party’s negligence or reckless behavior. Understanding these causes is crucial for identifying liable parties and preventing future occurrences.

Motor Vehicle Accidents

• Rear-End Collisions: Sudden impact from behind can cause severe spine injuries, including whiplash and herniated discs.
• High-Speed Crashes: High-velocity collisions can result in fractures, dislocations, and spinal cord damage.

Falls

• Slip and Falls: Slipping on wet or uneven surfaces can lead to significant spinal injuries, especially in the elderly.
• Workplace Falls: Construction sites and other hazardous work environments pose high risks for falls and subsequent spine injuries.

Acts of Violence

• Assaults: Physical assaults, including gunshot wounds and stabbings, can cause spinal cord injuries.
• Domestic Violence: Victims of domestic violence may suffer from severe spinal damage due to repeated abuse.

Sports and Recreational Activities

• Contact Sports: Activities like football, rugby, and hockey have high incidences of spinal injuries.
• Diving Accidents: Diving into shallow water can lead to catastrophic spine damage.

Types of Spine Injuries

Brain injuries can manifest in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and impacts on the victim’s health. Understanding the different types of brain injuries can help in diagnosing and treating these conditions effectively. Common brain injuries include:

Spine injuries can vary greatly in severity and impact, from minor fractures to complete paralysis. Recognizing the different types of spine injuries is essential for understanding the necessary medical treatments and potential long-term effects.

• Complete Paralysis Spinal Cord Injury
  Loss of all motor and sensory function below the injury site, leading to paraplegia or quadriplegia.
• Incomplete Partial Function Spinal Cord Injury
  Some motor or sensory function remains below the injury site, varying widely in degree and effect.
• Fractured Vertebrae
  Fractures in the vertebrae can cause severe pain, instability, and potential spinal cord damage.
• Herniated Discs
  Discs between vertebrae can rupture or slip, pressing on nerves and causing pain and mobility issues.
• Spinal Stenosis
  The spinal canal narrows, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain and neurological problems.

Common Symptoms of Spine Injuries

Symptoms of spine injuries can be immediate or develop over time, affecting various bodily functions and quality of life. Early recognition and treatment are crucial. Common symptoms include:

Physical Symptoms

• Pain: Severe and chronic pain in the back, neck, or along the spine.
• Weakness: Loss of strength in limbs, affecting mobility and coordination.
• Numbness: Reduced sensation or complete numbness in affected areas.

Neurological Symptoms

• Paralysis: Partial or complete loss of motor function in the arms, legs, or trunk.
• Spasms: Involuntary muscle contractions causing stiffness and discomfort.
• Loss of Bladder/Bowel Control: Inability to control urinary or bowel functions.

Psychological Symptoms

• Depression: Emotional distress and mental health issues due to the drastic change in lifestyle and physical capabilities.
• Anxiety: Persistent worry about health, future, and financial stability.

Steps to Take After a Spine Injury

If you or a loved one suffers a spine injury, taking prompt and appropriate steps can significantly impact your recovery and legal outcomes. Follow these guidelines if you’ve experienced a spinal injury

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Emergency Care: Get urgent medical treatment to stabilize the injury and prevent further damage.
• Follow-Up Treatment: Ensure continuous care with specialists to manage and rehabilitate the injury.

Report the Incident

• Notify Authorities: Report the accident to the police or relevant authorities to create an official record.
• Inform Employers: If the injury occurred at work, notify your employer and file a workers’ compensation claim.

Document the Injury

• Medical Records: Keep detailed medical records of all treatments, diagnoses, and expenses.
• Photographs: Take photos of the injury, the accident scene, and any relevant hazards.

Consult a Spine Injury Attorney

• Legal Advice: Contact Shalom Law to discuss your case and understand your legal options for pursuing compensation.
• Case Evaluation: Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if medical negligence contributed to the birth injury.

Damages and Compensation Available for Spine Injury Victims

Medical Expenses and Long-Term Healthcare Costs

The financial burden of medical expenses and ongoing healthcare for spine injury victims can be overwhelming. These costs encompass hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and long-term care needs. At Shalom Law, we strive to ensure that your compensation fully covers all medical-related expenses, both present and future. We understand the immense financial strain a spinal cord injury can impose, and we aim to alleviate this burden through diligent legal representation.

Lost Wages and Diminished Earning Capacity

Spinal cord injuries often severely affect an individual’s ability to work, resulting in lost wages and diminished future earning capacity. Our attorneys at Shalom Law are dedicated to securing compensation for these economic losses. We recognize that your injury might prevent you from returning to your former job or working entirely, and we are committed to fighting for your financial security and stability.

Pain and Suffering Compensation

The physical pain and emotional suffering caused by spinal cord injuries are substantial. Pain and suffering damages are essential to acknowledge the profound impact these injuries have on your life. At Shalom Law, we work tirelessly to ensure that your pain and suffering are appropriately compensated in your legal claim, recognizing the significant emotional and physical toll the injury has taken.

Rehabilitation and Therapy Costs

Rehabilitation and therapy are critical components of recovery for spinal cord injury victims. These expenses may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other necessary rehabilitative services. Our team at Shalom Law ensures that these costs are factored into your compensation. We understand the importance of comprehensive rehabilitation for improving your quality of life and facilitating your recovery.

Assistive Devices and Modifications

Spinal cord injury victims often require assistive devices and modifications to their homes or vehicles to accommodate their new needs. This can include wheelchairs, home accessibility modifications, and specialized transportation. At Shalom Law, we advocate for compensation that encompasses these essential adjustments. We believe in promoting your independence and mobility to the greatest extent possible, ensuring that your living environment supports your needs.

By comprehensively addressing all these aspects, Shalom Law is committed to providing robust legal support and securing the compensation necessary to cover the wide range of challenges faced by spinal cord injury victims.

How Shalom Law Can Help You

At Shalom Law, our dedicated spine injury attorneys provide comprehensive legal support tailored to the needs of spine injury victims and their families. Here’s how we can assist you:

Thorough Investigation

• Medical Record Review: We meticulously review medical records to identify any signs of negligence or malpractice.
• Expert Consultation: We work with medical experts to establish the connection between the incident and the spine injury.

Personalized Legal Strategy

• Case Management: We handle all aspects of your case, from filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies.
• Customized Approach: We develop a tailored legal strategy to address the unique circumstances of your case.

Aggressive Representation

• Negotiating Settlements: Our attorneys strive to secure a fair settlement that covers medical expenses, future care costs, and non-economic damages.
• Court Advocacy: If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate passionately on your behalf.

Ongoing Support and Communication

• Client-Centered Approach: We prioritize keeping you informed and involved throughout the legal process.
• Compassionate Guidance: We offer compassionate support and guidance, understanding the emotional and financial toll of spinal cord injuries.

By choosing Shalom Law, you are choosing a top personal injury firm committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Visit our Personal Injury Law page for more information on how we can assist you.

Spine Injuries FAQ