The spinal cord is the core of the body’s central nervous system, sending and receiving signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The cord is encased in vertebrae for protection. Nevertheless, severe impacts or certain diseases can disrupt the cord’s functionality. Spinal cord injuries can lead to loss of movement, sensation and other bodily activity, drastically affecting the victim’s quality of life.

Spinal cord injuries can result from multiple causes, ranging from heavy blows to degenerated discs. Automobile collisions are the leading cause, often involving high-speed impacts. Falls are a significant cause of back injuries for older adults, while athletic injuries — particularly from contact sports — pose a higher risk for younger individuals. Other causes include medical or surgical complications, infections like meningitis and diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

SCIs are classified based their degree and location. An SCI is considered complete if all sensory and motor functions below the injury site are lost. For an incomplete injury, some sensory or motor functions remain. The injury's location along the spine — cervical, thoracic, lumbar or sacral — further determines its effects. For example, cervical injuries can cause quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), while thoracic injuries may result in paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body).

Early recognition of SCI symptoms and prompt medical attention are vital to mitigating long-term damage. Common indicators include loss of sensation, difficulty breathing and loss of bowel or bladder control. In incomplete injuries, individuals may experience partial strength or sensation below the injury site. Chronic pain, spasms, or exaggerated reflexes are also possible. 

When a spinal injury is caused by another person’s conduct, the victim may be entitled to recover damages. The nature and amount of damages depend on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life and the degree of negligence involved. Recoverable damages typically include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs, and loss of quality of life. Punitive damages may also be awarded in cases of egregious misconduct.

An experienced Connecticut spinal injury attorney can develop a legal strategy built on strong evidence in order to secure the finances needed for the victim’s rehabilitation and extended care. Accident reports, photographs of the scene and witness statements are material to establishing liability. Testimony from medical experts helps explain the SCI’s long-term implications. Economic experts may provide assessments of lost earnings and future financial needs. Videos or daily journals detailing the victim’s struggles can illustrate the personal and emotional impact.

Spinal cord injuries are life-altering events with profound physical, emotional and financial consequences. The skilled attorneys at Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. in Hamden and East Haven, Connecticut take all actions necessary to get victims the full compensation they deserve. To schedule a free consultation, please call 203-745-0942 or contact us online.