Des Moines Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Negligence Caused Your Spine Injury?

At Hope Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact a spinal cord injury can have on your life. These injuries are often life-changing, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, our experienced Des Moines spinal cord injury lawyers are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve. We are committed to providing compassionate, knowledgeable legal representation to ensure your rights are protected and your future is secure.

Call (515) 298-5056 or complete our online contact form today to schedule a free case evaluation.

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation. The spinal cord is a vital part of the central nervous system, acting as a conduit for messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is injured, these messages can be disrupted or completely blocked, leading to partial or complete paralysis, loss of sensation, and other serious complications.

Spinal cord injuries are classified into two main categories: complete and incomplete. A complete injury results in a total loss of function below the level of the injury, meaning no sensation or voluntary movement is possible. An incomplete injury means that some function remains below the level of the injury, which could include varying degrees of sensation or movement.

Different Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are categorized based on the location of the injury along the spine and the severity of the damage. The types of spinal cord injuries include:

• Cervical Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries occur in the neck area and are the most severe, often resulting in complete paralysis below the injury site (quadriplegia or tetraplegia). Individuals with cervical SCI may lose the ability to move their arms and legs and may also experience difficulty breathing without assistance.
• Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries affect the upper and mid-back area. While they may cause paralysis of the legs (paraplegia), individuals often retain full use of their arms and hands. Thoracic injuries can impact the muscles of the trunk, affecting balance and posture.
• Lumbar Spinal Cord Injuries: Occurring in the lower back, lumbar injuries typically result in some degree of paraplegia. While individuals may lose function in the legs and lower body, upper body movement is generally unaffected.
• Sacral Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries occur in the sacral region, just above the tailbone. They can result in loss of function in the hips, legs, and lower body, but the individual may retain some degree of movement and sensation.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result from various types of trauma, and understanding the cause is crucial for pursuing a personal injury claim. Some of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. The force of a collision can result in significant trauma to the spinal column, leading to severe injuries.
• Falls: Falls, particularly from heights or on slippery surfaces, are a major cause of spinal cord injuries. Elderly individuals and workers in hazardous environments are especially vulnerable to fall-related SCIs.
• Sports and Recreational Activities: High-impact sports, such as football, rugby, and diving, pose a risk for spinal cord injuries, particularly when proper safety precautions are not taken.
• Acts of Violence: Spinal cord injuries can also result from violent acts, such as gunshot or knife wounds that penetrate the spinal column.
• Medical Malpractice: In some cases, spinal cord injuries occur due to medical negligence, such as surgical errors or mismanagement of spinal conditions.

Treatment for Spinal Cord Injuries

Treatment for spinal cord injuries is often complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach. The immediate focus is on stabilizing the patient and preventing further injury. This may involve surgery to remove bone fragments, herniated discs, or other items compressing the spine, as well as immobilization techniques to prevent movement.

Once stabilized, long-term treatment typically includes:

• Rehabilitation: Rehabilitation is a critical component of recovery for spinal cord injury patients. It often involves physical therapy to maintain and strengthen remaining muscle function, occupational therapy to help with daily activities, and counseling to address emotional and psychological challenges.
• Medication: Medications may be prescribed to manage pain, muscle spasticity, and other complications associated with spinal cord injuries.
• Assistive Devices: Depending on the severity of the injury, patients may require assistive devices such as wheelchairs, braces, or other mobility aids.
• Home Modifications: Patients with significant mobility impairments may need modifications to their homes, such as ramps, wider doorways, and specialized equipment to improve accessibility.

The Legal Process of Filing a Spinal Cord Injury Claim

Filing a spinal cord injury claim involves several critical steps, and having an experienced Des Moines spinal cord injury lawyer by your side is essential. At Hope Law Firm, we guide our clients through every stage of the legal process, including:

1. Case Evaluation: We start by evaluating the circumstances of your injury to determine the viability of your claim. This involves reviewing medical records, accident reports, and any other relevant documentation.
2. Investigation: Our team conducts a thorough investigation to identify all liable parties, whether it's a negligent driver, property owner, manufacturer, or another entity.
3. Negotiation: We negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to seek a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
4. Litigation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Choose Us?

Choosing the right lawyer to represent you in a spinal cord injury claim is crucial. At Hope Law Firm, we have a proven track record of successfully representing clients in complex personal injury cases. Our compassionate approach ensures that we take the time to understand your unique needs and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Des Moines, don't hesitate to reach out to our dedicated team. Contact Hope Law Firm today for a free consultation with an experienced Des Moines spinal cord injury lawyer.