Georgia Truck Accident Lawyers Blog

Automobile collisions often cause serious spinal cord injuries. If the trauma suffered by the victim is severe enough it can cause either temporary or permanent paralysis. Studies have indicated that as many as fifty-five percent (55%) of all paralysis cases typically result from some type of collision involving a motor vehicle, usually a truck, motorcycle or car.

The types of spinal cord injuries we have seen in our personal injury practice include automobile accidents associated with vehicular rollovers and roof crushing. When a rollover accident causes roof crush, passenger space is depleted which contorts the victims into positions that put stress onto the spinal cord, in some cases causing paralysis. While we have seen paralysis resulting from work accidents, sport accidents, and other activities, the majority of the clients we have represented who have suffered this type of terrible injury are those involved in tractor-trailer and very serious car collisions.

Because paralysis is life altering, as is true of any other serious injury or wrongful death case, it is necessary that competent counsel be engaged as quickly as possible. If there is third party liability, investigation of the facts while they are fresh is crucial. If too much time elapses, it may be difficult to establish third party liability. Moreover, key evidence can disappear and crucial fact witnesses can be difficult to locate. While the victim and his or her family are oftentimes overwhelmed by the initial medical problems associated with these conditions, family members should remember that the long term sequelae of traumatically induced paralysis is best addressed by a prompt and thorough investigation of the facts that lead to that condition. If long term effects of the incident are to be addressed, such as, long term lost wages, permanent disabilities and long term future medical costs, the best way to do so is by insuring that a prompt and thorough investigation is undertaken by competent counsel experienced in such case. Finch McCranie, LLP has the experience to handle these issues and has a reputation of doing so professionally, competently and thoroughly.

It has been estimated that there are approximately 135,000 new amputations occurring each year in the United States. Twenty-two percent (22%) of these amputations (about 30,000) are estimated to be caused by traumatic events such as tractor-trailer collisions, car crashes and on the job injuries. These serious personal injury cases affect almost all aspects of an individual’s life and typically present difficult periods of recovery for the victims of such injuries.

For those who are unfortunate enough to have experienced a traumatic amputation, there will be not only physical problems, but also emotional problems. Participation in a comprehensive rehabilitation program is very helpful in the recovery phase. A coordinated team approach with physicians, therapists, social workers and psychologists will provide the best approach to the medical care of such an individual.

Many amputees experience problems with body image and difficulty coping with life style changes in a variety of ways. People with amputations frequently go through a grieving process which is similar to dealing with the death of a loved one. Amputees can also have problems about their sexuality. Obviously, there are also significant issues concerning the ability to participate in recreational activities and employment.

Because amputation cases caused by trauma involve so many different aspects of a victim’s life, it is necessary that such a victim receive not only adequate medical care but, in appropriate tort cases involving negligent acts committed by others, competent legal representation. A Life Care plan taking into effect the long term sequellae of these serious injuries needs to be addressed by counsel in these cases, particularly where there are employment related issues.

Because current medical costs may be less than anticipated future medical costs (e.g. many times prosthetic devices have to be replaced on numerous occasions), it is necessary to consult with an experienced Life Care planner in approximating future medical costs before addressing the issue of settlement in any serious bodily injury case involving an amputation.

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