Most people in the suburbs of Northern Virginia probably know that spinal cord injuries almost always cause their victims serious and ongoing problems.
The sad thing is that many spinal cord injuries are preventable.
According to the Mayo Clinic, about half of all spinal cord injuries each year involve a motor vehicle accident, making motor vehicle accidents the primary cause of spinal cord injuries.
In its report, the Mayo Clinic did not distinguish between motor vehicle accidents where the victim was at fault for the accident and where someone else was responsible.
Still, it’s safe to say that at least in some cases, negligent drivers are causing spinal cord injuries to innocent victims.
Among people over 65, falling is the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. Of course, falls can and often do happen to younger people too, and these falls can also cause spinal cord damage.
Although again it is difficult to sort out the reasons for these falls, slips and falls happen too often on business properties or at personal residences because of the negligence of the landowner or another party.
Other leading causes of spinal cord injuries include violence and also accidents involving sports and recreation.
Victims will need compensation for their spinal cord injuries
The most serious spinal cord injuries will leave a victim paralyzed from the neck down. They will likely need constant medical and personal care for the rest of their lives. Returning to work or finding a job would be difficult for those victims who work in manual trades or professions.
The victim’s financial losses can run into millions of dollars. Victims and their families will need compensation for these losses, and it is only fair that those responsible for the injury pay it.
Furthermore, victims should also receive compensation both for their pain and suffering and the emotional toll that spinal cord injuries take.
Victims of spinal cord injuries and their families should make sure they understand their legal options.