How do Spinal Cord Injuries Occur?

 Posted on March 18, 2019 in Personal Injury Lawsuits

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), approximately 17,500 Americans suffer spinal cord injuries each year. Today, around 285,000 Americans live with complications caused by severe spinal injuries. Regardless of how an injury occurs, the long-term physical and financial impact of a spinal cord injury can be life-changing. 

Causes of Spinal Cord Injury Accidents

In the event of a spinal cord injury or suspected injury, it is important to act quickly. In some cases, immediate medical assistance can limit the potential damage. Some injury victims do not realize the severity at the time of an accident.

Here are some common causes of spinal cord injuries:

Car Accidents

Even in minor motor vehicle collisions, severe spinal injuries can occur. According to the NSCISC, car accidents account for 38 percent of all spinal cord injuries nationwide. Spinal cord injuries are most prevalent in rear-end collisions, in which the body has no time to brace for impact. From minor whiplash to spinal fractures, injuries of any magnitude can be painful and long-lasting. 

Slip and Fall Accidents

Every year, millions of Americans are hospitalized due to slip and fall injuries. While these accidents are often linked to hip fractures and traumatic brain injuries, spine injuries are also common in slips and falls. These accidents account for over 31 percent of all annual spinal injuries throughout the United States. 

Workplace Injury 

In the U.S., there are dozens of industries that put their workers at constant risk of injury. The most injury-prone private work industry is construction. Falls are the most common form of construction worker injury. Falls from even smaller heights can result in an irreparable spinal cord injury. 

Contact a Waukegan Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer 

A spinal cord injury can drastically alter a person’s life. In many cases, a person’s mobility or ability to do simple tasks is severely affected. The ramifications of a spinal injury can include costly medical procedures and home modifications, lost wages, and pain and suffering. At Salvi and Maher, L.L.C., our legal team is dedicated to ensuring your family’s financial security is not at risk due to injuries suffered. To schedule a free initial consultation with a compassionate Lake County personal injury attorney, contact our team today at 847-662-3303. 

Sources:

https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html

https://www.nscisc.uab.edu/Public/Facts%20and%20Figures%20-%202018.pdf

https://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html