Spinal cord injuries after a car crash can take a physical, emotional and financial toll. You may seek compensation for your injuries, but there are steps you need to take.
If you have been involved in a car crash that resulted in spinal cord injuries, it is vital to seek help from a trusted Lafayette car accident lawyer. At Galloway Jefcoat, we have been helping injured car crash victims for decades. Our attorneys can answer your legal questions during a free initial consultation.
How Do I Prove Fault for Spinal Injuries After a Car Crash?
Victims must establish liability before they can secure compensation after a car crash. They need to prove that another party’s wrongful actions directly caused the crash and injured them. Some liable parties could include another driver, vehicle manufacturers or employers involved in work vehicle crashes.
You may be able to use the following evidence to prove a party’s negligence in a car crash.
- Police Reports: This document can provide details of what happened in a car accident and give insight into the accident scenery.
- Witness Statements: Testimonies from people who saw the accident from different angles can give objective perspectives.
- Expert Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze evidence to explain how the crash happened and who could be at fault.
- Incident Report: A government entity could be liable if incident reports highlight issues like poor road maintenance or faulty traffic signals.
- Vehicle Inspection Reports: Vehicle manufacturers may be liable if detailed inspections by a mechanic or engineer identify the vehicle’s defects.
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How Do I Seek Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries?
It is recommended to consult with a car accident attorney to help you secure compensation after a car crash. However, you can take these steps to assist with the claim process.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Ensure you get diagnosed for injuries to receive proper treatment. Keep records of medical visits, treatments, and expenses to link your injuries to the car crash.
- Document Everything: Also, have photos, witness statements and any other relevant evidence you can gather. These documents can help your claim.
- File an Insurance Claim: File a claim with your insurance company. However, avoid saying things that can admit you are at fault for the car accident.
- Negotiate a Settlement: Negotiate a fair claim to cover your injuries and damages. A knowledgeable attorney can help you throughout the negotiation process.
How Much Compensation Can I Receive for a Spinal Cord Injury?
The amount of compensation you receive for your spinal cord injuries varies. Your compensation is based on factors like injury severity, quality of life and other specific case details.
Some case details that could influence your compensation could include:
Medical Expenses
This involves current and future medical costs. Severe injuries over a long period could result in higher compensation. For instance, if you are partially paralyzed and must learn how to walk again, ongoing rehabilitation can take time and become costly for victims to see a full or maximum recovery.
Lost Wages
This covers compensation for lost wages due to recovery. The amount will depend on how many missed days and other unique aspects of your case.
Loss of Earning Capacity
If your injuries reduce your earning capacity, it can affect your ability to make an income in a particular job or industry. For instance, if you are a truck driver or have a job that requires physical labor, it could be difficult to continue working with spinal injuries.
Pain and Suffering
This covers non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. For example, if injuries are so painful that it makes it hard to sleep or get through a physical therapy session, you may be able to seek compensation.
Mental Anguish
You may be able to seek compensation for the psychological impact of the injury, such as depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. Some victims could be depressed because they do not have time to enjoy hobbies because of their strenuous recovery process.
Loss of Consortium and Companionship
Spinal cord injuries after a car crash can have an impact on your relationships and quality of life. This compensation can help if you lose companionship and support from a spouse or family member.
Home Modifications and Assistive Devices
If spinal cord injuries are long-term or permanent, you may need home modification and assistive devices. Compensation can cover the costs of a wheelchair and other types of assistive devices you may need.
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Is There a Deadline to Pursue Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries?
In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those related to spinal cord injuries, is generally one year from the date of the injury. This means you must file your lawsuit within one year of the accident.
You should be aware of this deadline, as failing to file within this time frame can result in losing your right to seek compensation. Also, you want to file early so you and your attorney can preserve evidence. Over time, obtaining surveillance footage or evidence from the car accident scene can become difficult.
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Contact Galloway Jefcoat for Legal Help
A spinal cord injury after a crash can be life-changing, but you do not have to face the legal process alone. The proper legal support from a licensed attorney can make it possible to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a crash, reach out to Galloway Jefcoat. We have helped victims secure millions of dollars in compensation. Call our firm to schedule a free initial consultation to determine your legal options.
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