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September is National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges faced by individuals living with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and to highlight the importance of legal and medical advocacy. For those who have suffered a spinal injury due to negligence, accidents, or malpractice, finding the right personal injury attorney is a critical step toward securing justice and financial compensation.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can be life-altering, affecting not only the injured individual but also their family and loved ones. Understanding the basics of spinal cord injuries can help you comprehend the legal implications and the necessity of expert legal representation.

What is Considered a Severe Spinal Injury?

A severe spinal injury involves direct damage to the spinal cord, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, or diminished motor control. These injuries frequently require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive technology.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Cervical Injuries (Neck) – Can cause paralysis in arms, legs, and sometimes respiratory issues.

Thoracic Injuries (Upper/Mid-Back) – Affect balance, trunk muscles, and sometimes lower body function.

Lumbar Injuries (Lower Back) – May cause loss of function in hips and legs.

Sacral Injuries (Base of Spine) – Impact pelvic organs, bladder, and bowel control.

The Role of a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

A spinal cord injury lawyer specializes in cases where these devastating injuries are caused by car accidents, slip and fall accidents, workplace accidents, defective products, or medical malpractice.

What Is Negligence in Spinal Cord Injury Cases?

Negligence occurs when a party fails to act with reasonable care, leading to harm. Common examples include:

• Drivers causing car or truck accidents.
• Property owners ignoring unsafe conditions.
• Doctors failing to diagnose or treat spinal trauma properly.
• Manufacturers releasing defective or unsafe products.

How Much Is a Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit Worth?

The value of a spinal cord injury case depends on:

• Medical expenses (current and future care).
• Rehabilitation and home modifications.
• Lost wages and loss of earning potential.
• Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma.

An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and fight for maximum compensation.

Choosing the Right Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Selecting the right attorney can mean the difference between a fair settlement and ongoing financial struggles.

• Experience in SCI cases – Ensure the attorney has handled spinal injury lawsuits and understands both the medical and legal complexities.
• Compassion and communication – The best attorneys treat clients with respect, keep them updated, and explain every stage of the process clearly.
• Proven results – Review verdicts, settlements, and testimonials to confirm the lawyer has a history of winning substantial compensation for spinal cord injury clients.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

1. Free Consultation – Most spinal cord injury attorneys offer free case evaluations.
2. Investigation – Gathering medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony.
3. Filing the Lawsuit – Initiating legal proceedings against the negligent party.
4. Negotiation & Settlement – Many cases resolve without trial, but strong attorneys prepare aggressively for litigation if needed.
5. Trial & Verdict – If no settlement is reached, your lawyer will present evidence in court to fight for justice.

Why Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month Matters

Every September, Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month reminds us of the need for better treatment, research funding, and legal protections for those affected. It’s also a time to support families, advocate for prevention, and ensure that survivors have access to the medical care and legal representation they deserve.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Rights After a Spinal Cord Injury

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to negligence, you don’t have to face the future alone. A skilled spinal cord injury attorney can help secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, and the challenges ahead.

Contact our experienced New York personal injury attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.