Spinal Cord Injuries When the result means everything, turn to Lyons & Simmons, LLP
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Dallas Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys

We Represent the Victims of Catastrophic Injuries Throughout the United States

Spinal cord injuries are one of the most devastating injuries that a person can sustain. These injuries are often very painful and can cause issues with mobility. In severe cases, a spinal cord injury can leave a victim paralyzed. A person who sustains a spinal cord injury may be unable to work and will likely be responsible for paying for expensive medical treatment. It is overwhelming to manage the physical, financial, and mental effects that a spinal cord injury has caused.

The spinal cord injury attorneys of Lyons & Simmons, LLP are here to help you through this difficult time. We will work to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to discuss your case.

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Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

A spinal cord injury can result from any situation in which the back and spine are subjected to intense pressure, causing the spinal cord to be bent and crushed. Injury can also occur if the spinal cord is cut or pierced.

Some of the most common causes of spinal cord injury include:

What Are The Symptoms Of A Spinal Cord Injury?

The symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the injury. However, common symptoms of a spinal cord injury may include:

  • Loss of sensation: The injured person may experience a loss of sensation or numbness in the affected areas of the body.
  • Paralysis: Depending on the location of the injury, partial or complete paralysis may occur. Paralysis can affect the arms, legs, or both, and it can be temporary or permanent.
  • Difficulty or inability to move: A person with a spinal cord injury may have difficulty moving their limbs or may lose the ability to move them entirely.
  • Loss of bowel or bladder control: Spinal cord injuries can disrupt the normal functioning of the bowel and bladder, leading to incontinence or loss of control.
  • Changes in sexual function: Spinal cord injuries can affect sexual function and fertility.
  • Breathing difficulties: Injuries to the upper spinal cord can affect the muscles involved in breathing, potentially causing respiratory problems.
  • Spasms or exaggerated reflexes: Some individuals with spinal cord injuries may experience muscle spasms or increased reflexes.
  • Pain or intense sensations: Nerve damage resulting from a spinal cord injury can cause chronic pain, tingling, or other intense sensations.
  • Changes in blood pressure and heart rate: Spinal cord injuries can impact the body's ability to regulate blood pressure and heart rate.

It's important to note that the severity and specific symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary widely from person to person. Prompt medical evaluation and treatment are crucial for a comprehensive assessment of the injury and to manage symptoms effectively.

Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are extremely painful, debilitating conditions that can severely impact a person’s mobility, organ function, and more. Paralysis is one of the most significant risks of sustaining a spinal cord injury. Even if paralysis does not occur, a person’s mobility can be significantly impacted. Additional issues may include muscle spasms, stiffness, weakness, and coordination issues.

Damage to the spinal cord and connected nerves can also impact a person’s sensory abilities and the organs which rely on those nerves to work properly. Body systems such as the urinary system may be harmed by a spinal cord injury.

Spinal Cord Injury Treatment

A person who has sustained a spinal cord injury may require many different kinds of treatment to manage their condition. Surgery, therapy, medication, and the use of medical devices may be involved in spinal cord injury treatment. Spinal cord injuries can also leave people with limited mobility or paralysis, necessitating acute in-home care. Regardless of the type of treatment a person needs to treat their spinal cord injury, medical bills are costly. Through a legal claim, it is possible to recover compensation for the medical bills you have already paid as well as coverage for anticipated future expenses.

Additional financial damages resulting from a spinal cord injury may include lost wages, travel expenses, and more. An injury claim can provide compensation for these costs, and potentially serve as a source of income replacement while you are not able to work.

A spinal cord injury victim may have sustained significant non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, as well. It may be possible to recover compensation for any of these damages by filing a spinal cord injury claim.

Get Started on Your Case Today

If you or a loved one has sustained a spinal cord injury caused by another person’s negligence, contact us today. It can be difficult to manage a claim on your own. Hiring an experienced attorney is the best way to ensure you understand the complexities of your case and have the resources to recover the full amount of compensation you deserve.

Resources for Spinal Cord Injury Victims

Creating a resource section for spinal cord injury victims in Dallas, TX could include vital information on medical resources, legal support, and community services. Here’s a suggested outline:

Medical Resources

  • Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation: Offers comprehensive spinal cord injury treatment programs, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and emotional support.

  • UT Southwestern Medical Center: Known for specialized care in spinal cord injury treatment, including advanced diagnostic services, surgery, and rehab options.

  • Parkland Health & Hospital System: Provides trauma care and spinal cord injury services.

  • Texas Health Presbyterian Hospital Dallas: Offers spinal surgery and rehabilitation programs.

  • Medical CitySpine Hospital: A speciality hospital with expert surgeons for complex spine conditions.

Support Groups and Organizations

  • National Spinal Cord Injury Association - Dallas Chapter: A local branch providing emotional and peer support to spinal cord injury victims and their families.

  • Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: While national, this foundation offers resources and grants for spinal cord injury survivors in the Dallas area.

  • Ronald McDonald House: Families of patients who are 21 years or younger receiving pediatric treatment at a Dallas area hospital may qualify to stay with Ronald McDonald House. Priority is given to families who live more than 40 miles outside of Dallas city limits. Referrals must be made by a social worker, a member of the medical team, or a Medicaid caseworker where the child is being treated in Dallas.

Financial and Housing Assistance

  • Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS): Provides financial aid and rehabilitation services to individuals with spinal cord injuries.

  • United Way of Metropolitan Dallas: Can assist with financial aid, housing options, and other resources for spinal cord injury victims.

Transportation Assistance

  • Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) Paratransit Services: Offers specialized transportation services for individuals with mobility impairments.

  • Texas Mobility Management Program: Helps people with disabilities access affordable transportation options.

FAQs About Spinal Cord Injuries

  • Q:How are spinal cord injury claims handled in Texas?

    A:In Texas, spinal cord injury claims are typically brought through personal injury lawsuits. These lawsuits seek to recover money damages in the form of past and future medical expenses, impairment, disfigurement, lost wages, pain and suffering, and mental anguish.

  • Q:What is the statute of limitations for filing a spinal cord injury claim in Texas?

    A:In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including spinal cord injury claims, is generally two years from the date of the injury. It's crucial to file your lawsuit within this timeframe to preserve your right to recover for your damages.

  • Q:How is fault determined in spinal cord injury cases?

    A:Generally, a jury will determine who is at fault for your spinal cord injury as well as determining who, if anyone, was negligent. If someone's negligent actions or failures to act caused your injury, they may be held liable for damages. Evidence such as witness testimony, documents, medical records, and expert opinions is used to establish fault.

  • Q:How long does it take to resolve a spinal cord injury lawsuit in Texas?

    A:The time it takes to resolve a spinal cord injury lawsuit can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injury, and the willingness of the parties to negotiate. Some cases may settle relatively quickly, while others may require litigation and take multiple years to resolve.

  • Q:What if my spinal cord injury worsens over time?

    A:Spinal cord injuries can worsen over time, leading to additional medical complications and expenses. It's essential to document any changes in your condition and consult with medical professionals to determine the best course of treatment. An experienced lawyer can assist you in this process.

  • Q:What if my spinal cord injury prevents me from returning to work?

    A:If your spinal cord injury prevents you from returning to work or significantly impacts your earning capacity, you may be entitled to damages for lost wages and lost earning capacity. An attorney can help calculate these damages based on factors such as your occupation, earning history, and medical prognosis.

  • Q:What if I am unable to afford legal representation for my spinal cord injury claim?

    A:Many personal injury attorneys in Texas work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you recover money for your case. This fee is typically a percentage of the monetary recover.

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