Brain and Spinal Cord Injury
Brain and spinal cord injuries are some of the most devastating injuries a person can sustain. The spine keeps our neck and back upright and is the anchor for our internal organs; it is the scaffolding for our nervous system and the place holder for your brain. The brain is the nexus of the human body, governing our nerves, thoughts, likeness, and physical ability. Both the brain and the spinal cord are incredibly complex and unfortunately are relatively easily damaged.
Causes
There are numerous ways to injure your spine and brain, as nerves and neurons can suffer irreparable damage in many situations. A sudden impact to the head, back or neck in a car accident or a slip and fall on a sheet of ice could lead to a severe brain or spinal cord injury. Here is a list of some of the most common ways to injure your brain or spine.
Car accident
Slip and fall
Medical malpractice
Sports-related injury
Bicycle accident
Work-place accident
Diving accident
Physical attack
Stroke
Severity of Injury
There is also a broad spectrum of severity when it comes to brain and spinal cord injuries, ranging from hairline fractures, bulged discs and concussions to permanent paralysis, brain damage, and the total loss of a personality. Some of these injuries stem from internal and pre existing factors, such as genetic pre-dispositions, diseases, or cancers. While others may occur due to medical malpractice, such as the negligence of a surgeon. Regardless, if you believe someone contributed to your injury, no matter what the circumstances, legal advice can help identify the cause of your injury and navigate the road to recovery.
If you have previously suffered from neck, back or brain issues before the accident, you should still seek legal advice. A car accident, for example, can aggravate previous injuries or issues and cause increased suffering, in which case you may be able to claim compensation.
Compensation and Recovery
Brain and spinal cord injuries can be extremely severe and can lead to a lifetime of permanent medical assistance. Due to the complexity and importance of the brain and spine, injuries can result in debilitating results that can render a person unable to work or care for themselves. Even mild injuries can cause a person to lose short-term income, and can result in temporary loss of mobility, self-care, and happiness. If you have suffered a brain or spinal cord injury, you may be able to claim damages for the following:
Loss of past and future income
Rehab and medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Housekeeping ability
Loss of enjoyment of life
Loss of competitive advantage in the workplace