Truck Accident Lawyer

Getting into an accident with a commercial truck can have devastating consequences. Since these trucks are so much larger and heavier than the average vehicle, they are more likely to cause catastrophic injuries in victims. One of the most severe injuries that can result from these accidents are spinal cord injuries. They require immediate medical attention.

Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can negatively affect your life in many ways. That is why it is crucial for a doctor to assess this injury promptly and then recommend the proper treatment. Here are the most common symptoms of spinal cord injuries.

• Reduced mobility
• Headaches
• Weakness or numbness in extremities
• Loss of control of the bladder or bowels
• Pain or stiffness in the back or neck area
• Difficulty breathing

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Truck accident victims can suffer different types of spinal cord injuries. The kind of injuries they sustain will depend on the location of the impact. Spinal cord injuries are classified into these types:

• Quadriplegia. Loss of movement and sensation in all four limbs

• Paraplegia. Loss of movement and sensation in both legs

• Triplegia. Loss of motor and sensory capabilities in both legs and one arm

Common Treatments for Spinal Cord Injuries

As mentioned above, spinal cord injuries require immediate medical treatment. The sooner you start treatment, the better chance you have at making a full recovery from this injury. In the beginning, your doctor may have you wear a brace to stabilize your neck and back. Afterward, depending on the extent of your injury, your doctor may recommend surgery and rehabilitation therapy. If your case is severe, you may require assistive devices, wheelchairs or canes.

Getting Compensation for Spinal Cord Injuries

If you suffered a spinal cord injury in a truck accident caused by someone else, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. In order to prove negligence, the following elements have to exist.

• The defendant had a duty to use reasonable care
• The defendant neglected to use reasonable care
• The lack reasonable care led to the accident
• The victim suffered damages as a result of the accident

There may be multiple liable parties in a truck accident. For example, if the accident resulted from drowsy driving, the truck driver may not be the only party held responsible. If the trucking company pressured drivers into driving more hours to meet tight deadlines, they may also be held liable. 

In addition to compensation for your medical expenses and lost wages, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your pain and suffering, emotional distress and other damages. An experienced truck accident lawyer, will know the true value of your case and help you go after the compensation you deserve. He or she will handle negotiation with the defendant’s insurance company and protect your best interest.