Spinal Cord Injury

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can arise from various incidents involving negligence. These include:

• Road Traffic Accidents: Injuries sustained in cars, on motorbikes, bicycles, as pedestrians, or even horseback riders.
• Accidents at Work: Mishaps due to unsafe working conditions, including falls, lifting heavy objects, or repetitive strain.
• Slips, Trips, and Falls: Incidents caused by poorly maintained properties or public spaces.
• Medical Negligence: Errors in diagnosis, treatment, or surgical procedures by healthcare professionals.

Each case is unique, and our team brings extensive experience to advocate for victims and hold negligent parties accountable.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, ranging from temporary pain to permanent disability. Common types include:

• Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: Partial loss of sensation or motor function below the injury site.
• Complete Spinal Cord Injury: Total loss of motor function and sensation below the injury site, potentially resulting in paralysis.
• Paraplegia: Paralysis of the lower body.
• Tetraplegia/Quadriplegia: Paralysis affecting all four limbs and the torso.

Understanding the nature of the injury is crucial in building a strong compensation claim.

Spinal Cord Injury Scenarios

Road Traffic Accidents

Road traffic accidents are a common cause of spinal injuries, often resulting from the negligence of another driver, poor road conditions, or unsafe vehicles. These injuries can occur in various circumstances, including:

• As a driver or passenger in a car.
• As a cyclist or motorcyclist.
• As a pedestrian struck by a vehicle.

Workplace Accidents

Spinal injuries in the workplace often result from:

• Falls: Accidents on uneven surfaces, stairs, or ladders.
• Heavy Lifting: Strain caused by improper handling of objects.
• Repetitive Motion: Long-term strain affecting factory or assembly line workers.
• Workplace Violence: Assaults from colleagues, customers, or others on the job.

Slips, Trips, and Falls

Spinal injuries can occur in public or private spaces due to unsafe conditions. Property owners and managers are legally responsible for maintaining their premises to prevent such accidents.

Medical Negligence

Medical negligence leading to spinal cord injuries can include:

• Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of critical conditions.
• Surgical errors cause nerve or spinal cord damage.
• Inadequate treatment during rehabilitation.

Time Limits and Compensation

Time Limits

Under UK law, claims for spinal cord injuries must be filed within specific time frames:

• For Minors: Victims under 18 can file a claim until their 18th birthday. After that, they have three more years to pursue compensation, up to age 21.
• For Adults: Claims must be made within three years of the injury date or from the date you became aware of the negligence.

Factors Affecting Compensation

The amount of compensation awarded varies based on several factors, including:

• The severity of the injury and its impact on your life.
• Costs related to medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
• Loss of earnings or reduced earning potential.
• Emotional distress, pain, and suffering.
• Future needs such as mobility aids, home adaptations, and personal care.

At HPA Solicitors, we work tirelessly to ensure no detail is overlooked, and our clients secure the maximum compensation they deserve.