A spinal cord injury can change a life in an instant.
Unlike many other injuries, spinal cord damage often comes with permanent consequences, lifelong medical needs, and financial pressures that extend far beyond the initial hospital stay. In personal injury cases, understanding the true scope of future care is critical to securing fair compensation.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury occurs when trauma damages the spinal cord or surrounding nerves, disrupting communication between the brain and body. The spinal cord is the body's information highway—when it's damaged, signals can't travel properly.
These injuries can result from:
Car and Truck Accidents
High-impact collisions are a leading cause
Pedestrian or Bicycle Collisions
Vulnerable road users at high risk
Motorcycle Crashes
Lack of protection increases severity
Falls From Height
Construction sites, ladders, or unsafe areas
Construction or Workplace Accidents
Industrial accidents and unsafe conditions
Negligence on Unsafe Property
Premises liability and hazardous conditions
Severity can range from partial loss of function to complete paralysis. Each case is unique, and long-term outcomes depend on the level and completeness of the injury.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are classified in two main ways that determine both the immediate impact and long-term care requirements.
By Completeness:
Incomplete Injuries
Some function or sensation remains below the injury site. There may be potential for partial recovery with rehabilitation. Many incomplete injuries allow for some degree of mobility and independence.
Complete Injuries
Function below the injury site is lost. No motor control or sensation remains. These injuries typically require comprehensive lifelong care and assistance.
By Location on Spine:
Cervical (Neck)
Affects arms, hands, trunk, legs - most severe
Thoracic (Mid-back)
Affects trunk and legs
Lumbar (Lower back)
Affects legs and hips
Sacral (Lowest)
Affects hips and legs
The Real Cost Goes Far Beyond the ER
Initial emergency treatment is only the beginning. The lifetime costs of a spinal cord injury can reach millions of dollars. Many insurance companies try to settle quickly, hoping you'll accept far less than you'll actually need.
Long-term costs may include:
Ongoing Hospitalization and Surgeries
Follow-up procedures, complications, and additional interventions over time
Inpatient and Outpatient Rehabilitation
Intensive therapy programs lasting months or years
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Ongoing sessions to maintain function and prevent complications
Mobility Devices and Wheelchairs
Specialized equipment that requires regular replacement and upgrades
Home Modifications and Accessibility
Ramps, widened doorways, accessible bathrooms, and vehicle modifications
In-Home Care or Assisted Living
24/7 assistance for daily activities and medical needs
Medications and Pain Management
Prescriptions for pain, spasticity, infections, and other complications
Lost Income and Reduced Earning Capacity
Inability to return to previous employment and diminished future earnings
Critical Warning
Failing to account for future needs can leave injured individuals and families financially vulnerable for decades. What seems like a large settlement now may be inadequate within just a few years.