Cincinnati Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers
Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most severe and life-altering injuries a person can experience. They often result in long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges for the injured individual and their families. The impact of an SCI can extend far beyond the initial trauma, affecting the individual’s ability to work, participate in daily activities, and maintain personal relationships.
Given the serious nature of SCIs, it is important to understand the legal rights and options available to those affected. In Cincinnati, individuals who have sustained SCIs due to the negligence or wrongful actions of others may be entitled to compensation for their damages.
What Is an SCI?
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs down the middle of the back, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. An SCI is damage that results in a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation. The signals are disrupted, leading to partial or complete paralysis below the level of the injury. SCIs can be classified as either complete or incomplete.
A complete SCI involves total loss of function below the level of the injury, including motor function (movement) and sensory function (feeling). Individuals with complete SCIs may experience paraplegia (paralysis of the legs and lower body), tetraplegia, or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs).
An incomplete injury means that some function remains below the level of the injury. The degree of function that is retained varies, and rehabilitation efforts can sometimes improve outcomes.
What Are the Common Causes of SCIs?
SCIs can result from various traumatic events. Some of the most common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are among the leading causes of SCIs. The force of a collision can cause the spine to twist, bend, or compress, leading to severe damage to the spinal cord.
- Falls: Falls, particularly from significant heights or on hard surfaces, can result in SCIs.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports like football, rugby, and wrestling, as well as activities like diving into shallow water, can lead to SCIs.
- Medical or Surgical Complications: In rare cases, SCIs may result from medical errors or complications during surgery.
What Are the Symptoms of an SCI?
The symptoms of an SCI depend on the location and severity of the injury. Common symptoms include:
- Loss of Movement: Paralysis of the limbs or other body parts may occur.
- Loss of Sensation: Individuals with SCIs may lose the ability to feel touch, heat, or cold.
- Difficulty Breathing: Injuries higher up in the spinal cord, such as in the cervical (neck) region, can affect the ability to breathe independently.
- Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: SCIs often affect the body’s ability to control bladder and bowel functions.
- Spasms or Exaggerated Reflexes: Uncontrolled muscle movements or reflexes may occur below the level of the injury.
- Chronic Pain: Some individuals with SCIs experience chronic pain, which can be challenging to manage.
How Is an SCI Diagnosed?
Diagnosing an SCI typically involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests, and neurological assessments. Healthcare providers will look for signs of injury, such as loss of movement or sensation, and may use diagnostic tools like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans to determine the extent of the damage.
Additionally, neurologists may perform a series of neurological exams to evaluate motor and sensory function, reflexes, and other aspects of neurological health.
What Is the Treatment for SCIs?
Immediate medical care is critical to preventing further damage to the spinal cord and stabilizing the patient’s condition. Treatment options may include surgery to remove bone fragments, repair herniated discs, or stabilize the spine with rods or screws. Medication, such as steroids and other drugs, may be administered to reduce inflammation and protect the spinal cord from further harm.
Rehabilitation, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of care, is essential for helping individuals regain as much function as possible and adapt to their new circumstances. Assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, and other tools can help individuals with SCIs maintain mobility and independence.
What Legal Rights Do I Have After an SCI?
If you suffered an SCI due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation for your damages. This compensation can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
It is important to consult with a qualified Cincinnati spinal cord injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process. In Ohio, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. The right to pursue legal action may be lost if a lawsuit is not filed within this period.
How Can a Cincinnati Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Help Me?
A Cincinnati spinal cord injury lawyer at Wolterman Law Office can provide invaluable assistance throughout the legal process. They can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court. Additionally, they can guide you on the best course of action to maximize your compensation and protect your future.
Let an Experienced Cincinnati Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer at Wolterman Law Office Fight to Protect Your Rights
The experienced Cincinnati spinal cord injury lawyers at Wolterman Law Office are dedicated to guiding individuals with SCIs through the legal process and fighting for the compensation they deserve. Call 513-488-1135 or submit our online form for a free consultation. Located in Loveland, Ohio, we serve clients in Hamilton County, Fairfield, Norwood, and Forest Park.