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Spinal cord injuries are uniquely devastating in their ability to affect your basic motor skills and physical abilities. After sustaining harm to your spine, contacting a Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer can be your first step toward compensation.
Navigating the legal landscape of spinal cord injuries, particularly when the case involves some additional factor, like medical malpractice, can be complex. Allowing an experienced catastrophic injury attorney to represent your rights in a spine damage case can alleviate your stress and provide you the opportunity to pursue reimbursement for the full extent of your injuries.
Symptoms and Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Because the spine is such a delicate and complex part of the body, injuries to it can manifest in many ways. While some damage to the spinal cord is temporary, others are permanent and can even result in paralysis.
Some common symptoms stemming from damage to the spinal cord include loss of sensation, movement, and bladder control. Some spinal cord injuries can also lead to difficulty breathing and numbness in the hands and feet. Medical professionals often categorize spine damage as complete or incomplete: complete injuries lead to paralysis in the lower body, while incomplete injuries involve only partial damage to the spinal cord and often result in mobility and sensation issues.
Injuries to the spinal cord can result from vehicular accidents involving cars, boats, or motorcycles. They can also stem from something as simple as a slip and fall. Perhaps more jarring, victims of medical malpractice can experience spine damage. An attorney in Tampa can help determine who is responsible for a spinal cord injury.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Medical Malpractice
Unfortunately, one relatively common cause of spinal cord injuries is the carelessness of medical practitioners. Medical malpractice lawsuits are a particular type of case that may require a legal representative to show that the medical professional failed to live up to the standards common to that community, causing an injury. Additionally, it is possible malfunctions in medical machinery contributed to the injury.
No matter the cause, any form of medical misconduct is sensitive and can feel like a breach of the trust placed in the expertise of the professional. If you want to pursue a claim for medical negligence in Tampa, you should reach out to a spinal cord injury lawyer as soon as possible.
Florida Statutes Annotated § 95.11 establishes a shorter time frame for filing a medical malpractice lawsuit than for general injury cases. In a typical injury case, you have four years to file a lawsuit, but in a medical negligence case, you have only two years to file.
Reach out to a Tampa Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Today
Delayed physical manifestations of a spinal cord injury can result in ongoing medical and financial burdens. Any lawsuit brought against a responsible party must account for these continuing stressors. Contact a Tampa spinal cord injury attorney today to discuss your options. Talking with a lawyer can provide you with a better understanding of your options after you have sustained spine damage.
Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Tampa, FL: What You Need To Know
Spinal cord injuries can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. When these injuries occur due to an accident, the impact on the victim and their family can be profound. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, seeking the assistance of a spinal cord injury lawyer in Tampa, FL can help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve.
The Types Of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can range from mild to severe, depending on the location of the injury and its extent. These injuries can be classified into two main types:
Complete Injury: A complete spinal cord injury results in a total loss of movement and sensation below the injury site. This type of injury often leads to paralysis, and the individual may lose the ability to control bodily functions, requiring lifelong care.
Incomplete Injury: An incomplete injury means that some movement or sensation may remain below the injury site. The level of impairment depends on how much of the spinal cord was damaged. Individuals with incomplete injuries may have varying degrees of recovery.
In both cases, seeking legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim. A skilled spinal cord injury lawyer in Tampa, FL will understand the complexities of these injuries and can guide you through the legal process.
How Spinal Cord Injuries Occur
Spinal cord injuries often result from traumatic events such as:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car accidents are one of the leading causes of spinal cord injuries. These accidents can cause direct trauma to the spine, leading to broken bones, herniated discs, or other damage to the spinal cord.
- Falls: Slips, trips, and falls can result in serious injuries, especially in older adults. A fall may cause damage to the spine, leading to a spinal cord injury.
- Workplace Accidents: Certain work environments, particularly those involving heavy machinery or construction, can put workers at a higher risk of sustaining spinal cord injuries.
- Sports Injuries: Contact sports or high-impact activities can cause significant spinal trauma.
Regardless of the cause, it is important to consult a spinal cord injury lawyer in Tampa, FL to ensure your rights are upheld and you receive appropriate compensation for your injuries.
The Legal Process For Spinal Cord Injury Claims
Filing a personal injury claim for a spinal cord injury can be complex. The process often involves extensive documentation, including medical records, expert testimonies, and a thorough investigation of the circumstances leading to the injury. A spinal cord injury lawyer in Tampa, FL will have the expertise to build a strong case, helping you secure compensation for:
- Medical Expenses: Spinal cord injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery, physical therapy, and long-term care. Compensation can help cover these costs.
- Lost Wages: If the injury affects your ability to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: A spinal cord injury can cause significant physical and emotional pain. Compensation can also address these non-economic damages.
- Long-Term Care: In many cases, individuals with severe spinal cord injuries require ongoing care, which can be costly. An attorney will work to ensure these needs are considered in the compensation.
Why Choose Mickey Keenan, P.A.?
We are an experienced law firm in Tampa, specializing in personal injury cases, including spinal cord injuries. With decades of experience, Mickey Keenan understands the complexities of spinal cord injury cases and has successfully represented clients throughout the Tampa area. The firm is dedicated to providing compassionate and skilled legal support, ensuring that clients receive the compensation they deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to an accident, contact Mickey Keenan, P.A. for a free consultation. A knowledgeable spinal cord injury lawyer in Tampa, FL can help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
5 Ways Medical Negligence Can Lead To Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious and life-altering conditions a person can experience. In some cases, these injuries are caused by accidents, but medical malpractice can also be a root cause or contributing factor to the severity of your condition.
If you or a loved one has sustained a spinal cord injury due to a medical error, consulting our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer could be your first step toward justice and compensation. Here are five potential ways medical negligence can cause spinal cord injuries:
Misdiagnosis Of Spinal Conditions
One of the most common ways medical negligence can result in spinal cord injury is through the misdiagnosis of conditions such as herniated discs, fractures, or spinal cord compression. If a medical professional fails to correctly diagnose your spinal injury, it can lead to delayed treatment or improper care, increasing the risk of permanent damage.
For example, if a spinal fracture isn’t identified and treated early on, it could worsen and lead to paralysis. If this happens, it’s important to contact our Florida spinal cord injury lawyer to explore your legal options.
Surgical Errors
Surgery can sometimes be necessary to treat a spinal cord injury, but if a surgeon makes an error during the procedure, it can cause even more harm. Common surgical mistakes include operating on the wrong part of the spine, damaging nerves or the spinal cord itself, or leaving surgical instruments inside the body.
These errors can result in irreversible damage and long-term disability. If you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury due to a surgical mistake, it may be time to reach out to our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer—we’re ready to hear your story and help you pursue a claim.
Failure To Monitor Or Respond To Complications
After a person undergoes spinal surgery or is involved in an accident that results in a spinal injury, careful monitoring is essential to avoid complications. In some cases, medical professionals fail to adequately monitor the patient’s condition after surgery or an injury, leading to worsened spinal cord damage.
For instance, not noticing pressure on the spinal cord or failure to respond to signs of internal bleeding can result in a permanent injury. If you suspect that inadequate monitoring contributed to your injury, it’s important to consult with a Tampa, FL spinal cord injury lawyer.
Delayed Treatment
A timely response to spinal injuries is critical to minimizing damage and maximizing recovery. Medical negligence can occur if a healthcare provider delays treatment or fails to administer appropriate care in a timely manner.
For example, if a person with a spinal injury is not immediately stabilized or if the right diagnostic tests aren’t ordered right away, it can increase the severity of the injury. Delays in treatment can result in permanent disability, including paralysis. If you believe treatment was delayed due to medical negligence, our experienced attorneys can help you understand your options.
Improper Use Of Medical Equipment
Medical devices, such as back braces or surgical tools, are often used to treat spinal injuries. However, if these devices are not used correctly or malfunction, they can cause further damage to the spine and nervous system.
For example, a malfunctioning MRI machine may not detect critical issues, or a poorly fitted brace could put excessive pressure on the spine. If you’ve been injured due to a medical device failure or improper use, contacting our Florida personal injury attorneys can help you understand and exercise your legal rights.
You Deserve Strong Legal Support
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to medical negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your pain, suffering, and ongoing medical needs. Our skilled Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer can help you evaluate your case and determine the best course of action for maximizing your spine injury settlement. Let us fight for the justice you deserve while you focus on recovery—contact our team at Mickey Keenan, P.A. today for a free consultation.
Spinal Cord Injury FAQs
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, understanding your legal rights is essential. Our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer is here to help you move forward from your accident. We can provide the information you need to make informed decisions and pursue fair financial compensation that covers the damages you’ve endured. Below are some answers to common questions we get from our clients.
Does A Spinal Cord Injury Qualify For Disability?
A spinal cord injury can qualify for disability benefits, but approval depends on the severity of the injury and how it impacts daily life. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has strict requirements for disability benefits, including proving that the injury prevents a person from working for at least 12 months.
Medical records, test results, and doctor evaluations play a key role in determining eligibility. While some individuals receive automatic approval for severe injuries, others may need to go through an appeal process if their initial claim is denied.
Can A Person Walk Again After A Spine Injury?
Recovery depends on the severity of the injury and how much damage has occurred. Some individuals regain movement with physical therapy, surgery, or experimental treatments, while others may experience permanent paralysis.
Incomplete spinal cord injuries, where the spinal cord is not fully severed, offer a better chance of regaining mobility than complete injuries. Advances in medicine and rehabilitation continue to improve outcomes for those with spinal cord injuries, but recovery is different for everyone.
What Is Life Like For A Person With A Spinal Cord Injury?
Life after a spinal cord injury depends on the level of damage and the type of support available. Many people require ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs. Daily routines may need to be adjusted, and some individuals require home modifications or personal care assistance.
While these changes can be challenging, many people with spinal cord injuries lead fulfilling lives with the right medical care, rehabilitation, and support from family and friends.
How Hard Is It To Win A Personal Injury Lawsuit?
Winning a personal injury lawsuit depends on proving that another party was responsible for the injury. This requires strong evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness testimony.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, making legal representation important. A strong case typically involves demonstrating the other party’s negligence, proving the extent of the injury, and showing how it has affected your life. While some cases settle out of court, others may go to trial if a fair settlement isn’t reached. No matter what shape your case takes, our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer will advocate for your maximum compensation every step of the way.
What Compensation Can I Get After A Spine Injury?
Compensation for a spinal cord injury varies based on the severity of the injury and its impact. Many claims include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and pain and suffering.
In severe cases, compensation may also include long-term care expenses, home modifications, and loss of future earnings. If the injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek financial recovery to help cover these costs.
Address Your Questions With An Attorney
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, you don’t have to face the legal process alone. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we help injury victims fight for the compensation they deserve. Reach out to our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer today to schedule your free consultation.
Spinal Cord Injury FAQs
Spinal cord injuries can have a lasting impact on your health, finances, and overall quality of life. If you or a loved one suffered this type of injury due to someone else’s actions, you likely have many questions about your legal options. At Mickey Keenan P.A., we are committed to helping injury victims understand their rights and pursue fair compensation. Below, our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer answers some of the most common concerns people have when dealing with this serious condition.
What’s The Financial Burden Of A Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury can result in overwhelming costs. Medical expenses alone can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars in the first year, especially for severe cases. Ongoing rehabilitation, assistive devices, home modifications, and personal care can add up quickly. Lost income is another major factor, as many people with spinal cord injuries cannot return to work or must switch to lower-paying jobs.
Our Florida personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation for both current and future expenses. This can include medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The long-term financial impact depends on the severity of the injury, but securing proper compensation can ease the burden.
Can Medical Negligence Cause Spinal Cord Injuries?
Yes, medical errors can lead to spinal cord damage. Surgical mistakes, improper anesthesia administration, failure to diagnose infections, and delayed treatment of conditions affecting the spine can all result in serious injury. In these cases, the injured person may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim.
If medical mistakes played a role in your injury, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Holding a healthcare provider accountable requires proving that their actions deviated from standard medical practices and directly caused harm. Our Florida medical malpractice attorney can help gather medical records, consult experts, and build a case to show negligence.
Do Spine Injuries Qualify For Disability?
Spinal cord injuries often qualify for Social Security Disability benefits, but eligibility depends on the severity of the injury and how it affects daily activities. Complete paralysis, significant mobility limitations, or chronic pain that prevents full-time work can meet the criteria.
Applying for disability benefits requires medical documentation, work history, and proof of how the injury limits your ability to earn a living. Many initial claims are denied, making appeals a common part of the process. Your attorney can assist in gathering the necessary evidence and improving the chances of approval.
What’s The Life Expectancy For People With Spine Injuries?
Life expectancy varies based on the severity of the injury, age at the time of injury, and access to medical care. While medical advancements have improved outcomes, people with spinal cord injuries generally have a lower life expectancy compared to those without. Complications such as respiratory infections, cardiovascular issues, and pressure sores can contribute to health risks.
Quality medical care and lifestyle adjustments can improve overall health and longevity. Many people with spinal cord injuries lead fulfilling lives with the right support, rehabilitation, and treatment. Financial compensation can help secure necessary care and maintain quality of life.
How Hard Is It To Win A Spine Injury Lawsuit?
Winning a spinal cord injury lawsuit depends on proving that another party’s actions directly caused the injury. This requires evidence such as medical records, accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. The details of these cases vary based on the circumstances, but insurance companies often push back against large claims.
Having legal representation increases the likelihood of a successful claim. Our Tampa spinal cord injury lawyer can negotiate with insurance providers, present strong evidence, and advocate for the full compensation you deserve. Many cases settle outside of court, but if a trial is necessary, having a lawyer with experience in these cases is critical.
Get Dedicated Legal Representation
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s actions, you don’t have to handle the legal process alone. You may be entitled to compensation that can help cover medical costs, lost income, and long-term care needs. Call Contact Mickey Keenan P.A. today to schedule a free consultation.