Spinal cord injuries are one of the most serious injuries that a person can suffer. This is because the spinal cord carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is injured, it can cause paralysis, loss of sensation, and loss of function. There are many different causes of spinal cord injuries, but the most common cause is car accidents. Other causes include falls, sports injuries, and violence. Spinal cord injuries can also be caused by diseases such as cancer or polio. If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, you must follow the steps below to receive the best possible care.
1. Contact a Lawyer
If someone else’s negligence caused your spinal cord injury, you might be entitled to compensation. An experienced spinal cord injury attorney in Albuquerque can help you understand your legal rights and options. They can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and fight for the compensation you deserve.
The reality is that spinal cord injuries can be extremely costly. You may need to miss work to recover and incur significant medical bills. If someone else is responsible for your injuries, they should be held accountable. A lawyer can help make sure that happens. Contacting a Lawyer has the following benefits:
- A lawyer will give you the best chance of getting the maximum compensation possible.
- A lawyer will deal with the insurance companies for you so that you can focus on your recovery.
- A lawyer will ensure that all of your legal rights are protected.
2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, you should first seek medical attention. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis and start receiving treatment as soon as possible. Several different treatments may be used for a spinal cord injury, and it is important to work with your medical team to find the best treatment plan for you. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to stabilize the spine or repair damaged nerves. Physical therapy and rehabilitation are also often part of the treatment plan for a spinal cord injury.
3. Learn About Your Injury
Once you have been diagnosed with a spinal cord injury, it is important to learn as much as you can about your injury. This will help you understand your prognosis and make informed decisions about your treatment. There are several resources available to help you learn about spinal cord injuries. The Spinal Cord Injury Information Network is a good place to start. This website provides information on various topics, including types of injuries, treatments, and living with a spinal cord injury. Your medical team should be able to provide you with information and referrals.
4. Document Pain and Suffering
One of the hardest things about dealing with a spinal cord injury is the emotional and physical pain that you may be experiencing. It is important to record this pain and suffering to receive compensation. You can do this by keeping a journal or by taking photos.
Be sure to document the physical pain, emotional anguish, and psychological distress you are experiencing. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC) shows that the average cost of a spinal cord injury is over $1 million. This includes the costs of medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
5. Get Help from Family and Friends
Dealing with a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming, and it is important to have a support system in place. Family and friends can help you with practical tasks such as transportation and child care. Families also provide emotional support. There are also several support groups available for people with spinal cord injuries. These groups can provide valuable information and social support. You can find a list of support groups on the NSCISC website. The site also has a directory of service providers who can help you with everything from transportation to housing.
6. Seek Out Financial Assistance
There are several financial assistance programs available for people with spinal cord injuries. These programs can help with the costs of medical treatment, housing, and transportation. The Social Security Administration also provides benefits for people with disabilities. Most states also have programs that provide financial assistance for people with spinal cord injuries. These programs can help with the costs of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and personal care services.
If you have suffered a spinal cord injury, it is important to get the help you need to recover. Follow the steps above to ensure that you receive the best possible care. If you have any questions, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal rights and options. With the right resources, you can overcome this difficult situation.
