A spinal cord injury (SCI) is one of the most life-altering types of catastrophic injuries, often resulting in permanent disability, chronic pain, or loss of mobility. Whether caused by a car crash, fall, or workplace incident, spinal injuries demand immediate medical care—and long-term legal planning. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury due to someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to understand your legal rights under California law.
Here’s what you need to know about seeking compensation and holding the responsible parties accountable.
The Real Cost of a Spinal Cord Injury
SCIs impact nearly every aspect of daily life, from basic mobility to personal care to employment. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, the average lifetime cost of a spinal injury can exceed $5 million depending on the severity and age of the injured person.
Common consequences include:
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Ongoing medical treatment and surgeries
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Special housing and vehicle modifications
- Emotional distress and reduced quality of life
These are not short-term setbacks—they are life-altering challenges. That’s why victims deserve full and fair compensation that reflects the true scope of their losses.
Proving Liability in Spinal Cord Injury Cases
In California, spinal cord injury claims typically fall under personal injury law, which means the injured party must prove that another person or entity was negligent. Common causes of spinal cord injuries include:
- Vehicle collisions caused by distracted or impaired drivers
- Falls due to dangerous property conditions
- Construction site accidents lacking proper safety protocols
- Acts of violence or intentional harm
To build a strong claim, your legal team must gather medical records, accident reports, expert testimony, and witness statements. Establishing liability is especially critical in spinal injury cases because the damages are so substantial.
The Importance of Expert Witnesses
Because spinal injuries are complex, your attorney may bring in several types of experts to strengthen your case:
- Medical experts to explain the full impact of the injury
- Vocational experts to assess the loss of earning capacity
- Life care planners to project future needs and costs
- Economists to quantify total financial damages
At Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, we work with a network of trusted experts to ensure no detail is overlooked and that your case reflects the full picture of your recovery needs.
Don’t Let Insurance Companies Undervalue Your Case
Insurance companies are often quick to offer settlements that sound large but fall far short of covering a lifetime of care. They may dispute fault, downplay the extent of your injury, or rush you into accepting a low payout. That’s why having an experienced catastrophic injury attorney is crucial.
Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn has represented spinal injury victims across Southern California, securing compensation for both immediate expenses and long-term needs. Our team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take—and we don’t back down from insurers or corporate defendants.
If you or someone you love has suffered a spinal cord injury, contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn today at (310) 209-1600 for a free consultation. We’ll help you navigate the legal process and fight for the future you deserve.
