Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious a Florida resident can suffer.
Depending on the location and extent of the injury, the victim will lose the ability to move from the neck down or, in some cases, from the waist down.
Even those who are fortunate enough to avoid complete paralysis can still experience serious medical complications that are permanent.
All spinal cord injuries are life-altering. They cost millions in medical bills and ongoing care and treatment. Many victims are not able to continue with their trade or profession after the injury.
Also, victims and their families must endure the emotional and other non-economic consequences of their spinal cord injuries for the rest of the victim’s life.
The most common cause of spinal cord injuries overall is serious car accidents, and the second most common cause is falling. Violence and sporting accidents also contribute significantly to the number of new spinal cord injuries each year.
However, it is important not to underestimate the role medical errors can have in spinal cord injuries. For example, a surgical error near the spinal cord can directly or indirectly cause damage to this fragile and important nerve system.
Also, diseases and medical conditions like cancer or inflammation of the spine can cause spinal cord damage. While this damage may in some cases be hard to avoid even with the best medical care, too often, a misdiagnosis or a delayed diagnosis can contribute to a disease-related spinal cord injury.
Victims of spinal cord injuries and their families may be able to get compensation
Tampa-area victims of spinal cord injuries caused by a disease or a medical procedure may be able to recover compensation in a medical malpractice case.
They can those responsible for their injuries to pay for their lost income, medical bills and ongoing expenses as well for their pain and suffering and other non-economic losses.
Whatever the cause of their injuries, those suffering from spinal cord damage should make sure they know their legal rights and options as they will likely need compensation to stay financially stable.