Arlington Paralysis Injury Lawyer
It can take just an instant for life as you know it to change. A poor medical decision, a careless driver, or a broken stairwell could cause injuries that leave you suddenly paralyzed, without the use of your arms, legs, and other crucial bodily functions.
If you or a loved one have suffered severe injury to your spinal cord or neck due to the negligence of another, speaking with an Arlington paralysis injury lawyer could be crucial to asserting your rights and recovering compensation to which you may be entitled. The State of Texas mandates a strict statute of limitations, so speaking with a skilled catastrophic injury attorney as soon as possible could be very important to your case.
How Paralysis Impacts the Body
Paralysis typically occurs when the injured brain or spinal cord disrupt the transmission of messages between the brain and the body. While some people retain partial ability to move or feel sensations in the affected region, and are diagnosed with partial paralysis. An Arlington attorney could help someone fully understand what caused them to become paralyzed.
In some cases, individuals may be affected in just one limb or side of the body, but the most common forms of paralysis include paraplegia and quadriplegia. The former impacts the feet, legs, and usually part of the trunk, whereas the latter also affects the hands, arms, and upper torso.
In addition to the inability to move or feel sensation in the paralyzed area, people may also suffer a host of other medical problems. These typically include issues with the heart, lungs, bladder, bowel, and sexual function. Blood clots and sores are also common.
The unexpected, permanent life changes can also be emotionally devastating. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder commonly affect people, making physical recovery that much more challenging.
The Statute of Limitations in Arlington
The statute of limitations is the deadline to file a claim in court. Texas permits injured claimants just two years to file a lawsuit, regardless of whether the injury resulted from an accident or medical mistake.
It is imperative to initiate civil action within the two-year period. If the claim is not filed within the deadline, the court will most likely dismiss it for good and all rights to compensation will be deemed forfeited. Speak to a diligent Arlington paralysis attorney to ensure that all claims are filed within the statute of limitations.
Compensation for People Paralyzed in an Accident
Successful plaintiffs will usually be entitled to recover damages from the liable party or parties, including compensatory damages and in more limited circumstances, punitive damages.
Compensatory Damages
Compensatory damages include economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages have a specific monetary value. This could include ambulance fees, hospital bills, physician and surgeon costs, rehabilitative therapy, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, home and vehicle modifications, lost wages, and property repairs or replacement.
Non-economic damages refer to the non-monetary losses an individual suffers following an accident. A diligent attorney in Arlington could help individuals recover compensation for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of consortium.
Punitive Damages
In very rare instances where the defendant engaged in relatively egregious conduct, punitive or exemplary damages may be awarded to a plaintiff. They go above and beyond the damages that compensate the plaintiff and are primarily aimed at punishing the wrongdoer.
Call an Arlington Paralysis Injury Attorney Now
Paralysis a life-altering injury which can affect nearly every facet of your life including self-sufficiency, work, mobility, and relationships. The simultaneous physical, emotional, and financial challenges could also be overwhelming.
A knowledgeable Arlington paralysis injury lawyer could advocate on your behalf and help you seek the compensation you and your family need. Call our office today to get started on your case.