A spinal cord injury can be a devastating and life-altering event, affecting not only the injured individual but also their loved ones. We understand the immense physical, emotional, and financial burdens that come with such a traumatic experience.
At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we offer compassion, understanding, and professional legal guidance to navigate this difficult time. Our dedicated team of St. Petersburg spinal cord injury attorneys are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys for a free consultation. We support and guide you through the legal process toward justice and healing.
Why Choose Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys
At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we understand that a spinal cord injury is not just a medical diagnosis—it’s a life-altering event. From loss of mobility to long-term care needs and emotional trauma, these injuries affect every aspect of your life. That’s why our firm is committed to providing compassionate, strategic, and results-driven legal representation to spinal cord injury victims and their families.
With years of experience handling complicated personal injury cases, our St. Petersburg spinal cord injury attorneys know how to build strong claims that account for the full extent of your damages—both today and in the future. We collaborate closely with medical professionals, life care planners, and vocational specialists to account for every financial, emotional, and physical impact while fighting for compensation.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in high-value spinal injury cases. At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we don’t settle for less than you deserve. We aggressively advocate for your rights, whether through settlement negotiations or in the courtroom.
We treat each case personally, ensuring you are never just another case. We take the time to understand your goals, explain your legal options, and keep you informed throughout the process. With a proven track record and a genuine commitment to our client’s well-being, Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys is the trusted choice for those facing the devastating consequences of a spinal cord injury.
Let us ensure you move forward. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation.
Our St. Petersburg Office is conveniently located north of I-375 and west of 9th Avenue at:
Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys
700 7th Ave N, Suite B,
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)?
A spinal cord injury (SCI) is any damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function or sensation. The spinal cord is a delicate bundle of nerves that runs from the base of the brain down the back. It serves as a critical pathway for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When an injury occurs to the spinal cord, it disrupts communication between the brain and different body parts, causing a variety of physical and sensory impairments.
An SCI’s effects depend on the injury’s location and severity. Injuries higher on the spinal cord, such as in the cervical region, can result in paralysis of the arms and legs (quadriplegia). In contrast, injuries lower on the spine may affect only the lower body (paraplegia). In addition to loss of movement and sensation, individuals may experience chronic pain, bladder and bowel dysfunction, respiratory difficulties, and changes in sexual function. Spinal cord injuries are often permanent and life-altering, requiring long-term medical care, physical rehabilitation, and adaptive technologies to assist with daily living.
How Does a Spinal Cord Injury Impact Victims and Their Families?
The impact of a spinal cord injury extends far beyond the individual who is directly affected. Families of spinal cord injury victims also bear the emotional, physical, and financial burdens associated with such a life-altering event. The emotional toll is immense, as both the injured individual and their loved ones grapple with the shock, grief, and ongoing emotional challenges that arise from the injury.
The physical toll is equally significant, as spinal cord injuries often result in paralysis, loss of bodily functions, and chronic pain. These physical limitations can dramatically impact the individual’s quality of life, leaving them dependent on others for their daily needs. Furthermore, the financial burden of a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming, with exorbitant medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation costs, and loss of income due to the inability to work.
The Importance of Legal Representation to Recover Compensation
When facing the life-altering consequences of a spinal cord injury, seeking legal representation is imperative to recover the compensation you deserve. The legal complexities associated with such cases can be overwhelming, particularly when focusing on your recovery and adjusting to your injury’s new challenges.
By enlisting the help of a St. Petersburg experienced spinal cord injury attorney, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of securing fair and just compensation for your damages. A skilled spinal cord injury attorney from our firm will guide you through the legal process, gathering evidence, assessing the value of your claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and, if necessary, taking your case to trial.
What Is Your Spinal Cord Injury Worth?
Determining the value of a spinal cord injury claim is a complex process that considers various damages and factors. Your damages may include medical bills, both past and future, rehabilitation and assistive device costs, lost income and earning potential, pain and suffering, and loss of quality of life. In addition, these factors can impact how much you receive for a spinal cord injury:
- The liable parties
- The applicable insurance policies and their limits
- The extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life
- The type and value of the evidence in your claim
- The skills and dedication of your legal team
A comprehensive evaluation of your claim is essential to ensure that you receive fair and adequate compensation for the damages you have suffered. At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we have extensive experience in handling spinal cord injury cases and possess the experience to accurately assess the value of your claim. We will work diligently to ensure that you receive proper compensation to cover your medical expenses, ongoing care, loss of income, and significant impact on your quality of life.
How and Where Do Spinal Cord Injuries Occur?
Spinal cord injuries can occur in various situations and environments. The leading causes of spinal cord injuries include:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car, truck, and motorcycle crashes are one of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries. The sheer force and impact involved in these accidents can result in severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to life-altering consequences.
Falls
Slip-and-falls in public or private spaces can also result in spinal cord injuries. Whether it is a poorly maintained property or a hazardous condition, such falls can cause significant harm to the spinal cord.
Workplace Accidents
Workplace accidents involving falls from heights, such as from ladders or scaffolding, can lead to spinal cord injuries. These accidents often occur in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance industries.
Sports and Recreation Accidents
High-impact sports, contact sports, and water activities can all pose a risk of spinal cord injuries. Events such as football, rugby, diving, and skiing can result in severe trauma to the spine.
Violence or Assault
Acts of violence or assault can cause spinal cord injuries, particularly when they involve gunshots or blunt force trauma. These incidents can have devastating consequences for the victims.
Determining the location and cause of your spinal cord injury is critical in establishing liability and pursuing a personal injury claim. Our team of dedicated St. Petersburg spinal cord injury attorneys at Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys has extensive experience in handling cases involving different causes of spinal cord injuries. We will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and fight to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Fighting the Insurance Company After Suffering an SCI
When seeking compensation for a spinal cord injury, you should be aware of the tactics often employed by insurance companies to minimize payouts in serious injury claims. These tactics include blaming the victim for the accident, offering quick lowball settlements, and intentionally delaying the claims process. Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies without legal counsel present, as they can use your words against you to diminish the value of your claim.
At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we have extensive experience dealing with insurance companies in spinal cord injury cases. We know the tactics they employ, and we are prepared to fight back. Our team of seasoned spinal cord injury attorneys builds strong cases by utilizing expert witnesses, compiling thorough medical documentation, and employing economic forecasting to accurately calculate the full extent of your damages. If necessary, we are not afraid to take your case to trial to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
What to Do After Suffering a Spinal Cord Injury
After suffering a spinal cord injury, it’s in your best interest to take specific steps to protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your legal case. Here are some key actions to consider:
Continue With Necessary Follow-Up Medical Appointments
Ongoing medical care is vital for both your health and your legal case. Attending your follow-up appointments establishes a clear medical record of your condition and demonstrates your commitment to your recovery.
Adhere to Your Doctor’s Instructions
Following your doctor’s instructions is essential in your recovery and legal case. Adhering to your prescribed care plan will not only support your physical well-being but also help avoid any arguments by insurers claiming “noncompliance” as a reason to reduce your compensation.
Preserve Evidence
Preserving evidence related to your spinal cord injury will help in building a strong case. This can include photographs of the accident scene, surveillance footage, and any physical evidence that can help establish liability.
Obtain a Copy of Any Police or Incident Reports
Official reports, such as police or incident reports, can support your version of events. Obtain a copy of these reports and thoroughly review them to ensure accurate information.
Keep Detailed Records
Maintaining detailed records of your medical treatments, treatment plans, out-of-pocket expenses, and the impact on your daily life can significantly strengthen your legal case. Additionally, keeping a pain and recovery journal can help track your progress and serve as valuable evidence.
Consult a Seasoned Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Seeking early legal consultation ensures that your rights are protected and you can secure fair compensation. A St. Petersburg spinal cord injury lawyer from Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys will take over communication with insurance companies, gather evidence, and protect your rights throughout the legal process. They will also negotiate on your behalf and, if necessary, guide your case through litigation.
Why Legal Representation Is Imperative in SCI Cases
Spinal cord injury cases are highly detailed and require unique legal knowledge. Personal injury law, insurance claims, and potential product liability or premises liability issues can be challenging without the involvement of a dedicated attorney. Attempting to handle these legal matters yourself puts you at a significant disadvantage and increases the risk of accepting a settlement that falls short of what you deserve.
At Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys, we have a proven track record in handling catastrophic injury cases, including spinal cord injuries. Our team of compassionate and dedicated St. Petersburg lawyers possess the necessary skills to manage the details of your case. We are committed to providing you with the highest level of representation, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full and fair compensation you deserve. We approach each case with a client-focused approach, prioritizing your needs and striving to maximize your recovery.
Contact Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, don’t wait. Contact the knowledgeable injury lawyers in St. Petersburg, FL at Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys today for a free case evaluation. We understand your physical, emotional, and financial challenges and are here to support you through this difficult time. Our team is committed to fighting for justice and securing the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Call us today at (727) 933-0015 to take the first step towards justice and healing.
Lopez Accident Injury Attorneys – St. Petersburg Office
700 7th Ave N Suite B
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Phone:(727) 250-5521
