Naples Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

A spinal cord injury is damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal. These catastrophic injuries often cause permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions below the site of the injury. In Florida, approximately 1,000 new spinal cord injuries occur each year, with many resulting from preventable accidents.

At Cardinal Law, we understand that a spinal cord injury doesn't just affect the victim - it impacts the entire family. Our experienced Naples spinal cord injury attorneys are dedicated to securing the maximum compensation possible to help you adapt to your new circumstances and maintain your quality of life.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence, contact Cardinal Law at 239-610-0845 for a free consultation. We don't charge fees unless we win your case.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are classified based on their location and severity. Understanding these classifications is important for determining the extent of damages and future care needs:

• Complete spinal cord injury (total loss of function)
• Incomplete spinal cord injury (partial function retained)
• Tetraplegia/Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
• Paraplegia (paralysis of lower body and legs)
• Cervical spinal cord injuries
• Thoracic spinal cord injuries
• Lumbar spinal cord injuries
• Sacral spinal cord injuries

Levels of Injury:

• Cervical (C1-C8): Injuries to the neck area, potentially affecting arms, hands, and breathing
• Thoracic (T1-T12): Injuries to the upper back, typically affecting the trunk and legs
• Lumbar (L1-L5): Injuries to the lower back, affecting the hips and legs
• Sacral (S1-S5): Injuries to the lowest part of the spine, affecting the hips and legs

Leading Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Florida

Many spinal cord injuries are preventable and result from someone else's negligence. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, the leading causes include:

• Motor vehicle accidents (38% of cases)
• Falls (30% of cases)
• Acts of violence (14% of cases)
• Sports and recreation injuries (9% of cases)
• Medical/surgical complications
• Motorcycle accidents
• Diving accidents
• Construction accidents
• Defective products
• Workplace injuries

Complications and Secondary Conditions

Spinal cord injuries often lead to numerous secondary health complications that require ongoing medical care and can significantly impact quality of life:

• Respiratory problems
• Cardiovascular issues
• Bladder and bowel dysfunction
• Skin breakdown and pressure sores
• Blood clots
• Autonomic dysreflexia
• Spasticity and muscle atrophy
• Chronic pain
• Depression and anxiety
• Sexual dysfunction

Your Legal Rights After a Spinal Cord Injury

If your spinal cord injury was caused by someone else's negligence, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Florida law allows spinal cord injury victims to recover:

Economic Damages:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Surgery and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Ongoing medical care
• Medical equipment and assistive devices
• Home and vehicle modifications
• Lost wages and earning capacity
• Attendant care costs

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
• Mental anguish
• Disability and disfigurement
• Loss of independence
• Reduced life expectancy

Why Choose Cardinal Law for Your Spinal Cord Injury Case

Our attorneys have successfully handled numerous spinal cord injury cases, securing millions in compensation for our clients and their families. We work with leading spinal cord specialists, life care planners, and economists to build comprehensive cases that account for all current and future needs.

We conduct detailed investigations, working with accident reconstruction experts and other specialists to establish liability and maximize your recovery. We handle spinal cord injury cases on a contingency fee basis. You pay no attorney fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

We understand the challenges you and your family face. Our team provides personalized attention and support throughout the legal process. While we strive for fair settlements, we're prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to secure the compensation you deserve.

Florida's statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally four years from the date of the accident. However, it's crucial to consult with an attorney immediately to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Florida follows a comparative negligence system. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault.

A spinal cord injury changes everything. Don't face this challenge alone. Contact Cardinal Law at 239-610-0845 for a free consultation with our experienced Naples spinal cord injury attorneys. We don't charge fees unless we win your case.