St. Louis Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Fighting Against Spinal Cord Injury Victims in Missouri 

Spinal cord injuries can have a devastating impact on every aspect of your life. You may be facing a long road to recovery, diminished quality of life, mounting medical bills, and the inability to work.

As an experienced personal injury firm, our St. Louis spinal injury attorneys at Niemeyer, Grebel, and Kruse understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take, and we are committed to helping you seek the full and fair compensation you need to move forward with your recovery. 

Call us today at (314) 350-1900 for a free consultation with our spinal cord injury lawyer in St. Louis.

What is a spinal cord injury?

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, resulting in a loss of function such as mobility or feeling. This damage can be caused by trauma, such as a car accident or fall, or by non-traumatic causes, like infections, tumors, or degenerative diseases.

The spinal cord is a critical part of the central nervous system, transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to it can have serious and lasting effects on a person's physical capabilities and overall health. 

Common types of spinal cord injuries:

• Complete Spinal Cord Injury: This type results in a total loss of sensory and motor function below the level of the injury. The spinal cord is fully severed or damaged to the point where no communication can pass through.
• Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: In this case, some sensory or motor function remains below the level of injury. The extent of impairment can vary greatly and depends on the specific area of the spinal cord affected.
• Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia): This type of injury affects the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord and results in partial or total loss of use of all four limbs and torso. It can also impact respiratory function, depending on the severity and level of the injury.
• Paraplegia: This type of injury affects the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spinal cord. It results in loss of sensation and motor function in the lower part of the body, affecting the legs and possibly the pelvic region.
• Central Cord Syndrome: This is a form of incomplete injury characterized by damage to the center of the spinal cord, often causing greater weakness in the arms than in the legs.
• Anterior Cord Syndrome: This occurs when the front part of the spinal cord is damaged, leading to a loss of motor function and pain and temperature sensation below the injury level, while preserving light touch and proprioception (sense of body position).
• Brown-Séquard Syndrome: This rare condition is caused by damage to one side of the spinal cord, resulting in weakness or paralysis on one side of the body and loss of sensation on the opposite side.
• Cauda Equina Syndrome: This injury affects the bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord and can result in loss of bowel and bladder control, sexual dysfunction, and weakness or paralysis in the lower limbs.

Legal Representation for Spinal Cord Injury Victims 

A spinal cord injury is a serious, life-altering event. You need an experienced attorney on your side who understands the unique challenges you are facing.

At Niemeyer, Grebel and Kruse, we have represented many clients with spinal cord injuries caused by car accidents, falls, work injuries, and other forms of negligence. We know how to investigate these cases and build a strong argument for why you deserve compensation. 

You should not have to bear the financial burden of someone else's careless actions. Your attorney can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. 

How Our Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in St. Louis Can Help

The first step in any personal injury claim is to establish that the other party was at fault. In a spinal cord injury case, this will require proving that the other party's negligence led to your injuries.

Our attorneys can investigate the accident, review police reports, speak to witnesses, and collect any other evidence needed to build a strong case on your behalf. 

Once liability has been established, we will work to recover compensation for all of your damages, including:

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

There are many ways in which a person can suffer a spinal cord injury. These injuries can be caused by car accidents, falls, workplace accidents, sports injuries, and more.

Some of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

Car Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, car accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries in the United States.

A spinal cord injury can happen in any type of car accident, whether it is a rear-end collision, T-bone crash, or head-on collision. Any sudden impact can cause the spine to compress, leading to a spinal cord injury. 

Falls

Falls are a common cause of spinal cord injuries, particularly among older adults.

A fall can cause a person to suffer a spinal cord injury if the fall is forceful enough to cause the spine to compress. This can happen if you fall from a height, land on your head, or experience a sudden impact. 

Workplace Accidents

Workers in certain industries, such as construction and healthcare, are at a higher risk for suffering a spinal cord injury on the job.

Construction workers are often exposed to hazardous conditions and heavy machinery that can cause a spinal cord injury if mishandled. In addition, construction workers often work at high heights and in tight spaces, which can increase the risk of a fall and resulting spinal cord injury.

Sports Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur in any sport, but they are most common in contact sports, such as football, rugby, and hockey.

These sports involve a lot of physical contact, which can lead to a spinal cord injury if the players are not careful. In addition, sports like football and rugby can cause players to collide with each other or with obstacles on the field, leading to a sudden impact that can compress the spine and cause a spinal cord injury. 

Identifying the Signs of a Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on the location and severity of the injury.

Some common signs of a spinal cord injury include:

• Loss of Movement: Inability to move parts of your body.
• Loss of Sensation: Reduced ability to sense touch, heat, or cold.
• Paralysis: Partial or complete inability to move limbs.
• Difficulty Breathing: Challenges in respiratory function due to impaired muscle control.
• Intense Pain: Severe discomfort or painful sensations, which may be localized.

A spinal cord injury can cause either complete or partial paralysis. Complete paralysis, also known as quadriplegia, is when the victim loses all feeling and movement in their arms and legs. Partial paralysis, also known as paraplegia, is when the victim loses feeling and movement in their legs only. 

No matter how severe your symptoms are, it is important to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect you have suffered a spinal cord injury. 

Long-Term Effects of Spinal Injuries

The long-term effects of a spinal cord injury can be devastating. These injuries can lead to a lifetime of pain, disability, and financial insecurity.

Some common long-term effects of a spinal cord injury include:

• Chronic Pain: Persistent pain that can affect quality of life.
• Muscle Atrophy: Reduction in muscle mass and strength over time.
• Paralysis: Continued loss of movement and sensation below the site of injury.
• Loss of Sensation: Ongoing inability to feel touch or temperature variations.
• Loss of Mobility: Difficulty or inability to move independently.
• Difficulty Breathing: Continued respiratory challenges, requiring assistive devices.
• Emotional Distress: Impacted mental health leading to conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Compensation for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in St. Louis

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Missouri has no cap on damages in personal injury cases, which means that victims are not limited in the damages they can recover. This includes both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

The value of compensation for a spinal cord injury can vary depending on the unique details of each case. 

For example, if the victim is left with permanent disabilities as a result of the injury, they may be entitled to additional damages, such as future medical expenses and loss of earning capacity. It is important to seek legal advice from a qualified spinal cord injury attorney to find out exactly what damages you may be entitled to receive.

If you have suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, call our St. Louis spinal cord injury attorneys at NGK Law today for a free case review – (314) 350-1900.

FAQs About Spinal Cord Injuries

What Are the Local Resources for Spinal Cord Injury Support in St. Louis?

St. Louis offers a variety of resources for individuals and families affected by spinal cord injuries. Organizations like Paraquad provide community programs and services focusing on advocacy, resources, and independent living. Additionally, the local chapters of national organizations like the United Spinal Association offer support groups and educational resources to help individuals navigate the challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. These organizations play a pivotal role by offering support networks, peer mentorship, and access to assistive technologies, facilitating better adaptation and quality of life for those affected.

Can I Claim Compensation if I Am Partially at Fault for My Injury?

Yes, Missouri follows a comparative negligence rule, allowing you to claim compensation even if you are partially at fault for your spinal cord injury. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you're found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that amount. Working with an attorney who can effectively present your case is essential, minimizing your fault and maximizing your recovery. Understanding the nuances of Missouri’s fault system is crucial in ensuring you receive a fair settlement or judgment.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Spinal Cord Injury in Missouri?

In Missouri, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including spinal cord injuries, is generally five years from the date of the injury. This means you have a limited window to file a compensation claim. However, it’s advisable to begin the legal process as soon as possible to ensure that evidence is preserved, witness recollections remain fresh, and you have ample time to build a strong case. Promptly consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help navigate statutory timelines and complex legal requirements efficiently.

How Can I Improve My Quality of Life After a Spinal Cord Injury?

Improving quality of life following a spinal cord injury involves physical, emotional, and social rehabilitation. Physical therapy and exercise are crucial for gaining strength and maximizing independence. Emotional support through counseling or support groups can help address psychological challenges such as depression or anxiety. Additionally, occupational therapy can assist with adapting daily activities to new physical abilities. Staying connected with family, friends, and community resources in St. Louis enhances social engagement and support. Embracing adaptive technologies and assistive devices can further improve mobility and accessibility, empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives despite their injuries.