Most people fear complete spinal cord injuries. They find the idea of losing sensation and mobility terrifying. Fewer people consider the possibility of an incomplete spinal cord injury. They may not even realize that damage to the spinal cord can occur in a way that does not cause absolute and permanent paralysis. Incomplete spinal cord injuries pinch, tear or otherwise damage the spinal cord without actually cutting completely through it.
Incomplete spinal cord injuries are catastrophic even if they are not the worst-case scenario. They can affect a person’s quality of life and finances. What contributes to the harshest economic impacts of an incomplete spinal cord injury?
1. Medical expenses
Incomplete spinal cord injuries generally require intensive trauma care followed by long-term rehabilitative support. People may incur hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical expenses in the year immediately after their injury and tens of thousands of dollars in additional care costs every year for the rest of their lives.
2. Lost income
People who are in the hospital and undergoing rehabilitative care may need to take time away from work or may even lose their jobs in some cases. Additionally, the functional limitations generated by a spinal cord injury can affect the ability to keep a job or to continue pursuing advancement within a specific profession.
3. A need for support
People generally need to perform a variety of tasks every day for themselves and their families. Those with substantial functional limitations caused by a spinal cord injury may no longer be able to maintain vehicles, perform lawn care or handle other daily tasks.
Accurately estimating the lifetime financial impact of a spinal cord injury can help people handle insurance claims and decide if a lawsuit is necessary. Those injured by the negligence and misconduct of others may have the right to demand compensation from the party liable for their injuries. Seeking legal guidance can help with both of these critical concerns.