Spinal Cord Injuries: Lifelong Impacts and Legal Rights in California

TL;DR: Spinal cord injuries often lead to permanent disabilities, astronomical medical costs, and emotional trauma. California law allows victims to pursue significant compensation through personal injury or catastrophic injury claims. These cases demand experienced legal support due to the long-term needs and high financial stakes involved.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries: What Victims Face

The spinal cord is a delicate and essential structure, and when damaged, the consequences can be devastating. Common causes include car accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, and falls. Injuries are classified as either complete (total loss of function below the injury site) or incomplete (some function preserved). Victims often face:

• Paraplegia or quadriplegia
• Loss of bowel or bladder control
• Chronic pain and spasms
• Respiratory complications
• Increased risk of infections and pressure sores

Beyond the physical toll, spinal injuries disrupt careers, family dynamics, and mental health. Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are common. Lifetime care can cost millions.

Why Spinal Injury Settlements Are So High

Spinal cord injury cases often result in high-value settlements due to:

• Ongoing medical needs: surgeries, rehab, adaptive devices, home modifications
• Lost earning capacity: many victims cannot return to work
• Pain and suffering: physical and emotional distress is immense
• Life expectancy impact: quality of life is significantly reduced

California law supports substantial compensation for these categories under Civil Code §3333.1 and §3281.

Client Story: A Life Changed in Seconds

Fresno, CA: A 35-year-old father of two suffered a spinal cord injury after a semi-truck rear-ended his vehicle. Initially offered $250,000 by the insurance company, our team proved the injury required full-time care and a lifetime of lost income. We secured a $4.3 million settlement to cover his ongoing needs.

5 Legal Steps to Take After a Spinal Cord Injury

1. Seek immediate medical care and get a thorough diagnosis
2. Document everything: photos, witness info, accident reports
3. Request your medical records and keep bills organized
4. Don’t accept early settlement offers without legal advice
5. Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers for a free consultation

Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone

A spinal cord injury changes everything. It’s normal to feel shocked, scared, or angry. Take a moment to breathe and know that help is available.

We’ve helped hundreds of California families navigate catastrophic injuries. We’re here to protect your legal rights while you focus on healing.

FAQs About Spinal Cord Injury Claims

Can I still file if the accident happened months ago?

Yes, but time is limited. In California, you typically have 2 years to file a personal injury claim, or 6 months if a government entity was involved.

What if I was partially at fault?

California follows a comparative fault system. Even if you were partially responsible, you can still recover damages — they may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How are long-term costs calculated?

We work with life care planners and economists to calculate future medical needs, lost earnings, and home care expenses.

Can I sue a delivery company like Amazon or UPS?

Yes. If the driver was working at the time of the crash, the company may be liable under respondeat superior laws.

How much does it cost to hire your firm?

We work on a contingency basis. That means no fees unless we win your case.

Contact West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

Our legal team understands the lifelong challenges of spinal cord injuries. Let us fight for the full compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, compassionate consultation. No win, no fee.

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Attorney: Neama Rahmani, Esq. — President, West Coast Trial Lawyers. California Bar #240613. Verify license