PRACTICE AREA:

Spinal Cord Injuries

The Impact of a Spinal Cord Injury After a Car Accident

According to the Mayo Clinic, car and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, responsible for nearly half of all new cases each year.

When a sudden, forceful impact occurs—like those common at intersections such as Federal Highway and Atlantic Avenue in Delray Beach—the spine can suffer serious trauma, leaving the injured person with life-altering consequences.

Navigating life after a spinal cord injury requires a strong support system, advanced medical care, and, often, legal guidance to secure fair compensation.

The Zappitell Law Firm, located in Delray Beach’s Pineapple Grove Arts District, provides personalized representation backed by extensive legal resources. With a deep understanding of the challenges spinal cord injury victims face, we are dedicated to helping our clients recover both physically and financially.

How Spinal Cord Injuries Occur in Car Accidents

A spinal cord injury (SCI) often happens in high-impact collisions. When a car or motorcycle is hit from the rear or side or in a head-on crash, the force can compress, twist, or dislocate vertebrae in the spine. This sudden impact may damage nerves within the spinal cord, causing partial or complete loss of sensation and function below the injury site. Common car accident injuries like whiplash or blunt trauma to the back often lead to spinal cord damage.

Common Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries After a Car Accident

The severity of symptoms depends on the location and extent of the injury. Common spinal cord injury symptoms include:

Loss of movement or control over certain parts of the body
Numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation
Intense pain, especially in the neck or back
Difficulty breathing or coughing
Changes in bladder or bowel control

“Spinal cord injuries can be devastating, both physically and emotionally. Our firm sees the realities these injuries bring to the lives of our clients and fights to help them reclaim their futures.”

– David J. Zappitell, founder of the Zappitell Law Firm

Challenges and Realities After a Spinal Cord Injury

Living with a spinal cord injury affects every part of a person’s daily life. Routine activities like dressing, bathing, and driving can become difficult or even impossible without assistance. Many spinal cord injury victims face challenges such as:

Medical Costs: From emergency surgeries to physical therapy, SCI treatment costs can be astronomical. Lifetime expenses often reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars.
Loss of Independence: Many people with SCI rely on caregivers or adaptive devices, impacting their sense of independence.
Mental Health Struggles: Adjusting to life post-injury can lead to depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

This is where legal action can make a difference. Seeking compensation with the help of a motorcycle and car accident lawyer can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

“We know the financial strain a spinal cord injury puts on a family,” says David J. Zappitell. “Our team works hard to secure compensation so clients can focus on their recovery instead of worrying about bills.”

Your Legal Rights and Options After a Spinal Cord Injury

If you or your loved one suffered a spinal cord injury in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages. In Florida, those injured due to another driver’s negligence can pursue a personal injury claim to recover:

Medical Expenses: Covers costs of emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing therapy.
Lost Wages and Earning Potential: Reimbursement for missed work and compensation for reduced earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for emotional and physical pain resulting from the injury.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for the impact on quality of life and daily activities.

Navigating these legal options can be complex, especially when dealing with serious car accident injuries like a spinal cord injury. An experienced car and motorcycle accident lawyer understands Florida’s personal injury laws and can guide you through the claims process.

Steps to Take After a Spinal Cord Injury

If you’re considering legal action after an SCI, here are the steps you should take:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Documenting your injuries is essential for any legal claim. This documentation will serve as evidence of the accident’s impact on your health.
Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene (if possible), gather police reports, and keep records of medical treatments. Evidence is key in building a strong case.
Contact a Car Accident Lawyer: Consulting a lawyer early on is beneficial. A lawyer can help protect your rights, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure you pursue maximum compensation.
Follow Your Medical Treatment Plan: Following the recommended treatments and therapy demonstrates your commitment to recovery, strengthening your legal case.
Document Everything: From medical bills to lost wages, keeping organized records of expenses will support your compensation claim.

Why Choose Zappitell Law Firm?

The Zappitell Law Firm combines the personal attention of a boutique firm with the resources typical of larger firms. We handle cases from Boca Raton to Boynton Beach, down to Miami, and across the surrounding areas. Our team’s experience in handling complex car accident injuries means we know how to navigate Florida’s legal system effectively.

“We know how to take on insurance companies, and we don’t back down,” says David J. Zappitell. “Our clients deserve fair compensation, and we fight to get it.”

Our approach prioritizes you and your family’s needs. We understand the emotional and financial impact of a spinal cord injury and work tirelessly to support you through the recovery process. As part of the Delray Beach community, we’re proud to help our neighbors secure the justice they deserve.

We’ve seen just about every type of car accident injury in Delray Beach, from Atlantic Ave to George Washington Blvd. to Linton Blvd. and out west on Military Trail. Our local expertise ensures you have a lawyer who knows the area’s legal system and what to do to help you in every way possible.

Finding the Right Legal Representation

Selecting a car accident lawyer can be overwhelming. Here’s what to look for:

Experience with Spinal Cord Injury Cases: Look for a firm with a proven record in handling car accident injuries, specifically SCIs.
Personalized Attention: A good lawyer will take time to understand your unique situation and offer tailored advice.
Trial-Ready Team: While many cases settle out of court, having a lawyer who’s prepared to go to trial is an advantage.

Contact Zappitell Law Firm Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a car accident, the Zappitell Law Firm in Delray Beach is here to help. From the initial consultation to case resolution, our team provides dedicated support and aggressive representation. Don’t face the aftermath of a serious injury alone. Reach out to our firm for the guidance and advocacy you need.

Spinal cord injuries may change lives, but with the right legal support, you can focus on recovery and rebuilding. Contact us at our Pineapple Grove Arts District office to learn how we can assist you with your case.

For the best legal representation after an accident involving any injury, click here or give our team a call at (561) 330-6330 for a FREE consultation.

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When you have been seriously injured, you need an attorney you can depend on to protect your best interests. At Zappitell Law Firm, our team of skilled legal professionals is fully equipped to help you with your legal needs. Led by founder and AV-rated* lawyer David J. Zappitell, our firm offers customized legal services and quality resources to our clients. We urge you to complete the contact form below or call us to learn how our team can help you.