Some of the most devastating injuries that may affect a person following an accident or an attack result in paralysis. Paralysis injuries could impact every portion of your life—from your mobility, to your ability to earn a living, to being able to enjoy hobbies. Some people will require medical attention for the rest of their lives following this kind of damage.
Whenever another party is responsible for an event that results in paralysis, they have an obligation to provide fair compensation for an injured person’s losses. However, proving that another party was at fault can be a complex legal issue. An experienced catastrophic injury attorney at The Kryder Law Group could help you pursue a paralysis injury case. A proactive Elgin paralysis injury lawyer could investigate the circumstances of an accident and gather the evidence necessary to hold the negligent party accountable.
The Medical Science Behind Paralysis
Paralysis is often the end result of nerve damage. However, this damage typically does not occur at the site of the immobile body part. Instead, paralysis is a common symptom of spinal cord damage. Because the spinal cord serves as the messenger between the brain to the other parts of the body, if this messenger is unable to relay a signal, that part of the body is unable to move. According to the Cleveland Clinic, paralysis can involve more than just an inability to move. Other forms of paralysis can cause spasms, a shrinkage of muscles, or even paralysis that comes and goes.
The closer to the brain that the damage to the spinal cord occurs, the higher the percentage of the body becomes paralyzed. However, even damage to the lower spine can result in permanent injuries that require medical attention for the foreseeable future. A seasoned Elgin injury attorney could help a paralyzed individual evaluate their injury and the effects is has on their life.
Accidents that Frequently Result in Paralysis and How to File Suit
Most incidents that result in paralysis are accidents. The defendant in the case did not mean to cause the incident and certainly did not mean to cause the plaintiff any harm. Still, the fact remains that the harm did occur. Even in cases involving accidents, many defendants are responsible for the outcome of their actions.
The most common examples of these legal dynamics are cases that center around negligence. In these claims, a defendant had a duty to protect the plaintiff. When their actions caused a failure in this duty, and the plaintiff was injured, the defendant is at fault. The most prevalent example of negligence cases is auto collisions. However, these cases can also include slips and falls, dog bites, or even defective product claims.
A plaintiff bears the burden of proving negligence in paralysis injury cases, which is why it is extremely beneficial to have a well-practiced legal professional on your side. A diligent paralysis injury lawyer in Elgin could also help a plaintiff meet the state’s statute of limitations, which according to 735 ILCS 5/13-202, is within two years of the date of injury.
Let an Elgin Paralysis Injury Attorney Fight for You
If you are now experiencing paralysis following an injury, it is understandable to be frustrated and confused. You may wonder what your legal rights are and how you can experience a brighter future. Sadly, most of these injuries will never fully heal, and you may be left unable to work for the rest of your life.
The simple fact remains that at-fault defendants in accidents and crimes are liable to provide compensation to their victims. This can include payments for medical treatment, reimbursement for lost wages, and even payments for pain and suffering. These cases can be very complex, and defendants and their insurance companies will fight to protect their own finances. Contact an Elgin paralysis injury lawyer today to help secure your future interests.
(312) 223-1700