Paraplegia is a paralysis of the of the legs and lower body, usually the result of a spinal cord injury resulting in the paralysis of the body below the level of the neck; it is one of the most devastating injuries a person can sustain.
Your spinal cord is divided into four sections – cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. Paraplegia results from the fracture, dislocation, or compression of one or more of the thoracic or lumbar nerves. It is not necessary to suffer a fracture to the vertebrae, or bones in the back that protect the spinal cord, to become a paraplegic. And, a fractured vertebra does not automatically mean you will be paralyzed.
Unlike quadriplegics, who often must have around-the-clock caregivers to assist them, and are usually unable to return to work, individuals with paraplegia are often able to return to a relatively independent life through rehabilitation and retraining. In many cases, the person who is paraplegic will be able to return to work, if not at his or her old job, then, with proper education and training, to a new job that can accommodate their physical condition.
The financial costs of treating paraplegia may run into the millions of dollars, and include:
- Medical expenses
- Intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Caregiver costs
- Lost wages while the victim was off work
- Lost earning capacity if the victim cannot return to the same career
- Educational expenses to be trained for a new career
- The costs of modifying a house to accommodate a wheelchair
- The purchase of a specially-equipped van or other vehicle with features to allow a paraplegic driver to drive
- Non-economic damages for pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life
Besides the serious physical injuries, the emotional aspects of the injury are substantial. The victim will suffer a period of grief for the loss of their former life. He or she may become depressed, withdrawn, or hopeless. The mental health aspects of becoming paraplegic can be serious and require appropriate psychotherapy and even psychoactive medications.
TorkLaw has experience in representing clients who have are experiencing paraplegic due to the careless conduct or negligence of another person, or company, or due to a defective product. We understand the physical, financial, and emotional toll paraplegia takes on the injured victim and his or her family, and will work tirelessly on your behalf to obtain the maximum recovery possible so you can adjust to your new living requirements. Call now for a free consultation with a lawyer – 888.845.9696.