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Seattle Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys
Legal advocacy from Seattle-area injury lawyers
A spinal cord injury is not just a physical trauma. It is a life-altering event that requires comprehensive legal support. At Smith McBroom, our Seattle spinal cord injury attorneys recognize the unique challenges associated with spinal cord injuries and the critical importance of securing the necessary resources for medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support.
How can we help?
- What is a spinal cord injury?
- What are the different types of spinal cord injuries?
- What are the signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury?
- What types of Seattle accidents can cause spinal cord injuries?
- Who is liable for my Seattle spinal cord injury?
- Do you have a Seattle spinal cord injury attorney near me?
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What is a spinal cord injury?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) refers to damage to the spinal cord resulting in a loss of function, sensation, or mobility. The spinal cord is a crucial part of the central nervous system, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is injured, these signals may be disrupted, leading to various degrees of impairment and disability. Spinal cord injuries are considered to be catastrophic injuries.
The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC) reports that “The estimated number of people with tSCI (traumatic spinal cord injury) living in the United States is approximately 302,000 persons, with a range from 255,000 to 383,000 persons.”
What are the different types of spinal cord injuries?
Spinal cord injuries can be classified into two main types:
Complete spinal cord injury
- In a complete SCI, there is a total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of the injury.
- The person may experience paralysis, affecting both voluntary movement and reflexes.
- The exact level and extent of the injury determine the areas of the body affected.
Incomplete spinal cord injury
- In an incomplete SCI, some degree of sensation or motor function is retained below the level of the injury.
- The extent of impairment varies widely, and individuals with incomplete injuries may retain some ability to move or feel in certain areas.
The consequences of a spinal cord injury can be life-altering, affecting not only physical abilities but also sensory and bodily functions. Common complications associated with spinal cord injuries include paralysis, loss of bladder and bowel control, respiratory difficulties, and changes in sexual function.
What are the signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury?
Spinal cord injuries can result from trauma, such as accidents or falls, and they can cause a range of signs and symptoms depending on the severity and location of the injury. Common signs and symptoms of a spinal cord injury may include:
- Loss of movement. Depending on the level and extent of the injury, there may be a partial or complete loss of muscle function below the level of the injury.
- Loss of sensation. Reduced or loss of sensation, including the ability to feel heat, cold, or touch can occur.
- Difficulty breathing. Injuries higher up on the spinal cord can affect the muscles involved in breathing, potentially leading to respiratory problems.
- Loss of bladder or bowel control. A spinal cord injury can affect the control of the bladder and bowels.
- Spasms or uncontrolled movement. Involuntary muscle contractions or spasms may occur.
- Changes in sexual function. Sexual dysfunction or loss of fertility may result from a spinal cord injury.
- Intense pain or stinging sensation. Some individuals may experience severe pain or a stinging sensation at the site of the injury or in areas below the injury.
- Difficulty with balance and coordination. Problems with balance and coordination can occur, making walking or other movements challenging.
- Changes in reflexes. Reflexes may become hyperactive or hypoactive.
- Low blood pressure. A spinal cord injury can affect the autonomic nervous system, leading to low blood pressure.
Immediate medical attention is critical for anyone suspected of having a spinal cord injury to minimize further damage and improve outcomes. If you suspect someone has a spinal cord injury, it is essential to call for emergency medical assistance and avoid moving the person unless absolutely necessary to prevent further injury.
What types of Seattle accidents can cause spinal cord injuries?
Spinal cord injuries can be caused by a variety of accidents, some more common than others. Here are some of the most frequent causes:
- Motor vehicle accidents. The NSCISC reports these are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents can all cause severe spinal cord damage.
- Falls. Falls are the second most common cause of spinal cord injuries. Falls from heights, such as ladders or roofs, are particularly dangerous. Falls can also be a risk for older adults and people with balance problems.
- Sports injuries. Contact sports, such as football, rugby, and hockey, can put athletes at risk for spinal cord injuries. Diving accidents are also a common cause of spinal cord injuries in athletes.
- Acts of violence. Acts of violence, such as stabbings, shootings, or assaults, can also cause spinal cord injuries.
- Medical malpractice. In rare cases, spinal cord injuries can be caused by medical or surgical negligence.
Who is liable for my Seattle spinal cord injury?
Determining liability for a spinal cord injury depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. Here are some scenarios where different parties might be held liable for a spinal cord injury.
- Negligent drivers. If a car accident is caused by the negligence of one or more drivers, they may be held liable for resulting injuries.
- Employers. Employers may be held liable for worksite or construction site injuries if the injury occurred due to unsafe working conditions, lack of proper training, or failure to adhere to safety regulations.
- Property owners or occupiers. If a spinal cord injury occurs on someone else's property due to unsafe conditions (such as slippery floors, inadequate lighting, or faulty stairs), the property owner or occupier may be held liable.
- Manufacturers. If a spinal cord injury is caused by a defective product, such as a faulty car part or medical device, the manufacturer may be held liable for the defect.
- Healthcare providers. If a spinal cord injury results from medical negligence, such as surgical errors or misdiagnosis, the healthcare provider or facility may be held liable.
- Assailants. In cases of violence or assault leading to a spinal cord injury, the person responsible for the violent act may be held criminally and civilly liable.
- Contractors or subcontractors. In construction-related spinal cord injuries, the contractor or subcontractor responsible for safety on the site may be held liable.
In some cases, more than one party may be held partially responsible for a spinal cord injury. You may pursue legal action through a personal injury lawsuit to seek compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other damages associated with your injury. The Seattle spinal cord injury attorneys at Smith McBroom can help.
Do you have a Seattle spinal cord injury attorney near me?
Smith McBroom is located at 16400 Southcenter Parkway, Suite #210, Seattle, Washington, 98188. We’re right off I-5 and I-405, near Southcenter Mall. There is a bus stop near our office, and we offer free on-site parking.
Seattle-area SCI lawyers on your side
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, you deserve experienced legal representation to fight for your rights. The dedicated Seattle spinal cord injury attorneys at Smith McBroom can help you navigate the legal complexities and pursue the compensation you need for your damages and losses. To schedule a free consultation with a member of our team, call our Tukwila-based offices or fill out our contact form today.