The Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Accidents can happen anywhere, and when they do, it’s important that victims consider their legal options. Any sort of harm that occurred due to another person’s negligence is unacceptable, especially if the accident has long-term or even lifelong effects on you or a loved one’s well-being. A catastrophic injury can leave someone paralyzed or permanently disabled, and negligent parties must be held liable for these kinds of incidents.
The legal team at our Longview, TX law firm knows that catastrophic injuries that affect the neck and spinal cord can lead to paraplegia or quadriplegia. That’s why we take these incidents so seriously. Below, we will look at some of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries so you aware of the risks in various situations.
Auto Accidents
Car accidents and motorcycle accidents can result in all sorts of injuries. In catastrophic collisions, there is a risk of severe injuries to the spinal cord, which can leave accident victims paralyzed. The dangers of these accidents are even higher when large trucks or tractor-trailers are involved.
It’s estimated that 33.7 percent of all spinal cord injuries are related to motor vehicle crashes.
Major Falls
Falling from a high place can be disastrous. Numerous injuries may result from your fall, with spinal cord injuries and neck injuries among them. Falls can take place anywhere, from apartment buildings to places of business.
Falls are the second leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for an estimated 29.5 percent of incidents.
Gunshot Wounds
Guns have been in the news a lot over the years. While the larger debate about gun control and ownership will continue, what is undeniable is that guns can lead to grievous bodily injury when used by people who are irresponsible. Spinal cord injuries from gunshots can change the course of a person’s entire life.
It’s been estimated that 13 percent of spinal cord injuries are the result of gunshots and gun-related injuries.
Sports Injuries
If you play contact sports or combat sports, the risk of serious injury is relatively high, even if you are wearing pads and protective gear. In fact, people in very physical sports that do not involve contact may also be at risk of injury simply because of the risk of a bad landing.
Sports and recreational accidents cause an estimated 8.3 percent of spinal cord injuries every year.
Medical Mistakes
We count on doctors and surgeons to make the right decisions when it comes to our overall health and wellness. However, mistakes can be made. Surgical mistakes, incorrect diagnosis, and other acts of medical malpractice can lead to severe injuries or conditions that affect the spine.
Roughly 4.7 percent of spinal cord injuries have been linked to some act of medical negligence or error.
Construction Accidents
If you work in construction, the risk of serious bodily harm is much higher than other professions. There’s a risk of falls from structures, falling objects striking workers, vehicle and heavy machinery malfunctions, and other serious hazards to take into account. For anyone working in an industrial field, be cautious at work, and look out for yourself and your co-workers.
Physical Assaults
Being involved in a physical altercation typically results in some kinds of injury. While many people who are mugged or attacked suffer from bruises and cuts, brutal assaults can leave a person in dire condition. In these sorts of instances, spinal cord injuries may occur.
Learn More About Your Legal Options
For more information about your legal rights and options following a spinal cord injury, it’s important that you contact an experienced injury attorney. The legal team at the law firm of Randy Akin, PC will work with you and your loved ones, providing expert counsel in your time of legal need.