The spinal cord is crucial to the body's normal functioning. A spinal cord injury (SCI) can be a devastating event with severe and permanent consequences. At Perey Law Group, PLLC we have the experience, knowledge and legal skills to help individuals in the aftermath of these catastrophic injuries. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation.
Spinal Cord Injury Facts
An SCI is defined as a traumatic event that results in damaged cells or severed nerve injury within the spinal cord. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 11,000 people sustain an SCI each year in the U.S., and nearly 200,000 individuals in the U.S. are currently living with an SCI-related disability. More than half of the individuals who incur an SCI are just 15 to 29 years old—and may have to face many more years of life with severe disabilities.
An SCI injury can have difficult and long-lasting consequences, including:
· Fractured vertebrae
· Broken back
· Spinal cord compression
· Spinal fracture
· Disk herniation
· Paraplegia
· Quadriplegia
· Loss of sexual functioning
· Loss of bladder and/or bowel control
· Depression
In addition, there are secondary medical conditions that often arise after an SCI, the most common of which are respiratory complications, pressure sores, urinary tract infections, scoliosis, and spasticity.
Causes of Spinal Cord Injury
According to the CDC, the leading cause of SCI varies by age. For people under the age of 65, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause, accounting for about 45% of SCIs in this age group. The second most common cause of SCI is falls, followed by acts of violence (mostly gunshot wounds). Sports and recreation activities cause about one-fifth of the SCIs reported each year. Among the elderly, falls cause most SCIs.
Damages Arising from an SCI
An SCI is a catastrophic injury, with a significant negative impact on the life of the survivor and his or her family. The losses and damages in many SCI cases are extensive, and may include
· Medical care costs
· Rehabilitation expenses
· Loss of employment, earning capacity, and/or future income
· Long-term care costs
· Loss of companionship
· Loss of a parent's support and guidance
· Pain and suffering
If you or your family member has suffered with an SCI, you can turn to Perey Lwa Group, PLLC to discuss your circumstances. We can help determine whether the losses you've incurred are eligible for monetary compensation. Contact us online to arrange a free consultation — we look forward to helping you.
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Perey Law Group, PLLC
1606 8th Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
Phone: (206) 443-7600
Fax: (206) 443-4785