Spine Injury | Las Vegas Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys

Experienced Legal Representation for Spinal Cord Injury Victims

A spinal cord injury can be a life-altering event, leaving victims with significant physical limitations, emotional distress, and financial burdens. At Gina Corena & Associates, our experienced Las Vegas spinal cord injury attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury due to someone else’s negligence, contact us today for a free consultation at (702) 680-1111.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord is a critical part of the nervous system, responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is damaged, it can result in partial or complete loss of function below the site of the injury, affecting sensation, mobility, and other bodily functions.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur in various ways, often due to the negligence of others. Some of the most common causes include:

• Motor Vehicle Accidents:Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents are leading causes of spinal injuries, often resulting from high-impact collisions.
• Slip and Fall Accidents:Slipping and falling on unsafe surfaces can lead to severe spinal injuries, particularly in older adults.
• Medical Malpractice:Surgical errors or other forms of medical negligence can cause significant damage to the spinal cord.
• Workplace Accidents:Dangerous working conditions, particularly in construction and industrial settings, can result in spinal injuries.
• Assaults:Violent attacks can cause spinal injuries through blunt force trauma or penetrating wounds.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are classified into two main categories: complete and incomplete.

Complete Spinal Cord Injury

• Definition:A complete spinal cord injury results in a total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury.
• Impact:This type of injury often leads to permanent paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia.

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

• Definition:An incomplete spinal cord injury allows for some level of sensation or motor function below the injury site.
• Impact:The extent of impairment varies widely depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries

The symptoms of a spinal cord injury can vary depending on the location and severity of the damage. Common symptoms include:

Loss of Sensation

Numbness or tingling in the extremities.

Paralysis

Partial or complete loss of movement in the arms, legs, or other parts of the body.

Difficulty Breathing

Respiratory issues due to nerve damage affecting the lungs.

Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control

Inability to control urination or defecation.

Muscle Spasms

Involuntary muscle contractions or twitching.

Diagnosing and Treating Spinal Cord Injuries

Diagnosis

After a suspected spinal cord injury, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Diagnostic procedures may include:

• X-rays:To identify fractures or dislocations in the spine.
• MRI or CT Scans:To assess the extent of the injury and detect any damage to the spinal cord or surrounding tissues.

Treatment

Spinal cord injuries often require long-term medical care, which may include:

• Emergency Treatment:Immobilization and surgery to prevent further damage.
• Rehabilitation:Physical therapy to regain strength and improve mobility.
• Medications:Pain management and medications to reduce inflammation and prevent complications.
• Assistive Devices:Wheelchairs, braces, or other devices to aid in mobility and daily activities.

Pursuing Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries

If your spinal cord injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you might be entitled to compensation for your losses. At Gina Corena & Associates, we will work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek maximum compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Medical Expenses:Costs for surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Wages:Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning capacity due to the injury.
• Home Modifications:Costs associated with modifying your home to accommodate your injury, such as wheelchair ramps or accessible bathrooms.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and Suffering:Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life:Damages for the inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
• Loss of Consortium:Compensation for the impact of the injury on your relationship with your spouse or family.

Punitive Damages

• Punishment for Gross Negligence:In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless, the court may award punitive damages to deter similar behavior in the future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Injury Claims

How long do I have to file a spinal cord injury claim in Nevada?

Nevada’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. It’s crucial to act quickly to protect your rights.

Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, under Nevada’s comparative negligence laws, you can still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

What if the injury occurred due to medical malpractice?

If your spinal cord injury resulted from medical malpractice, you could file a lawsuit against the healthcare provider. These cases require expert testimony to prove that the provider deviated from the accepted standard of care.

Contact Our Las Vegas Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, don’t face the challenges ahead alone. The experienced Las Vegas spinal cord injury attorneys at Gina Corena & Associates are here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (702) 680-1111 for a free consultation or complete our online contact form.

Legal Resources

• American Bar Association (ABA): Provides general information on personal injury law, including spinal cord injuries and the rights of injured individuals. ABA
• Nevada Revised Statutes: Outlines the laws related to personal injury and negligence in Nevada, which can help victims understand their legal rights regarding spinal cord injuries. Nevada Revised Statutes
• Nevada Trial Lawyers Association (NTLA): A local organization advocating for the rights of injured individuals, including those with spinal cord injuries. NTLA

Educational Articles and Guides

• National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC): Offers comprehensive information on spinal cord injuries, including causes, prevalence, and treatment options. NSCISC
• Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: Provides resources and support for individuals with spinal cord injuries and their families. Reeve Foundation

Local Context and Support

• Las Vegas Review-Journal: A local news source that covers incidents involving spinal cord injuries and related legal cases, providing context on how these situations are handled in the community. Las Vegas Review-Journal
• Nevada Department of Health and Human Services: Offers resources related to healthcare and rehabilitation services for individuals with spinal cord injuries in Nevada. NDHHS