People who suffer spine injuries after a car accident may face lasting disabilities, including chronic pain and reduced mobility that make everyday life more difficult. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of such an injury, the Wisconsin spinal injury lawyers at LawtonCates can evaluate your case and determine whether you may be entitled to compensation.
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NCISC), living with a spinal cord injury (SCI) can cost between $460,000 and $1.4 million in the first year alone, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Over time, survivors often face hundreds of thousands more in costs, which can be a major financial burden no matter their income.
At LawtonCates, our experienced car accident lawyers understand the profound challenges you are experiencing, both financially and personally. Let us help you hold the responsible parties accountable for what you endured. Call or contact us today for a free consultation.
Why Choose LawtonCates for Your Spinal Injury Claim?
LawtonCates has served South Central Wisconsin for nearly seven decades, building a legacy of excellence and integrity that continues today. Our law firm provides strong, steadfast representation to accident victims throughout Wisconsin, including Madison, Jefferson, Milwaukee, and the neighboring communities.
Unlike legal mills that rush through cases seeking quick settlements, LawtonCates takes a comprehensive approach to every spinal injury claim. Our experienced personal injury lawyers prepare each case as though it’s heading directly to trial, showing the insurance company that we’re serious about securing maximum compensation for our clients.
Over the decades, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for the wrongfully injured and handled precedent-setting cases through state and federal courts. Many attorneys in the region refer their most complex cases to us, a testament to our skill and versatility in handling complex litigation.
Types of Spine Injuries Caused by Car Accidents
Car accidents cause all types of spinal cord injuries and other spine damage, each with its own challenges and long-term effects. Understanding these injuries helps victims and their families grasp the severity of their situation and the importance of proper legal representation.
- Complete spinal cord injuries – Complete SCIs result in total loss of movement and sensation below the injury site, fundamentally changing how the body functions. The severity of paralysis means victims often require 24/7 care and are at risk of serious health problems.
- Incomplete spinal cord injuries – These injuries leave some movement or feeling below the injury, but still reduce overall function.
- Herniated discs – The violent impact of a collision can force a vertebral disc’s soft interior to push through its protective outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves and causing excruciating pain.
- Fractured vertebrae – The spine can crack or shatter upon impact, sometimes sending bone fragments into surrounding nerve tissue.
- Spinal stenosis – Crash trauma can narrow spaces within the spine, compressing nerves and creating progressively worsening pain and weakness.
Recognizing Spinal Injury Symptoms After a Crash
Identifying spinal injury symptoms promptly after an accident can be critical for both medical treatment and personal injury claims. While some symptoms appear immediately, others may develop hours or even days after the crash.
Watch for these warning signs of spinal injuries:
- Loss of movement or sensation in any body part
- Tingling, numbness, or pins-and-needles sensations in the extremities
- Difficulty breathing or changes in respiratory patterns
- Sharp, stabbing pain in the back or neck that persists or worsens
- Muscle weakness, especially in the arms or legs
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Unusual muscle spasms or exaggerated reflexes
Never dismiss any such symptoms as minor discomfort. Your spine is too important to risk. Seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly influence recovery outcomes and strengthen your legal claim.
What to Expect During the Spinal Injury Recovery Process
The recovery process for spinal injuries typically involves multiple phases, each requiring specialized care and potentially significant financial resources. Knowing the general process can help car accident victims prepare for what lies ahead.
Emergency treatment begins with spinal stabilization to prevent further damage. Medical teams administer medications like corticosteroids to reduce swelling and inflammation. Surgery often becomes necessary to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or stabilize the spine.
Long-term rehabilitation includes:
- Physical therapy – Specialists work to restore movement and strength while teaching techniques for daily activities.
- Occupational therapy – Practitioners help patients adapt to physical limitations and maintain as much independence as possible.
- Psychological counseling – Mental health professionals address the emotional challenges of adjusting to life-altering injuries.
- Support groups – Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide crucial emotional support.
During recovery, victims with catastrophic spinal injuries can also expect to learn how to use adaptive medical equipment such as wheelchairs, braces, orthotics, transfer aids, oxygen tanks, and more.
What Compensation is Possible for Victims with Spinal Injuries?
In a car accident claim, victims with spine injuries may seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Lost earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Home modifications and assistive devices
- Ongoing care expenses (e.g., long-term medical care, personal assistance, etc.)
Our spinal cord injury attorneys work diligently to document all aspects of your losses and fight for comprehensive compensation that addresses both your current needs and future requirements.
Why You Need a Wisconsin Car Accident Lawyer
Spinal injury claims are complex for several reasons. First, no spine injury is the same. Doctors cannot guarantee a full recovery or determine the long-term consequences.
Additionally, the spine is a critical and delicate part of the body. Medical treatment costs are high for specialized care. These factors drive up the value of a personal injury claim. Knowing this, insurance companies employ teams of adjusters and lawyers whose primary goal is minimizing payouts. Without an experienced car accident lawyer advocating for your interests, you risk accepting an insufficient settlement that fails to cover your long-term needs.
Working with LawtonCates provides essential advantages. Our legal team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult medical experts, economists, and other specialists as needed to make your case as strong as possible. If the insurer refuses to make a fair offer, we will discuss filing a car accident lawsuit to pursue a better result with you.
Contact LawtonCates Today for Your Free Consultation
Your future depends on the decisions you make today. If you suffered a spinal injury in a car accident, turn to LawtonCates. Let our dedicated spinal injury attorneys guide you toward the best possible outcome. Call or contact us now for your free consultation.