A spinal cord injury can change everything in an instant. Depending on the location and severity, it can cause partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, and loss of bodily functions. These injuries are typically permanent, and the consequences extend to every aspect of a person's independence and quality of life.
A Permanent, Catastrophic Injury
In Arizona, spinal cord injuries frequently result from high-speed freeway crashes, motorcycle wrecks, falls from height in construction, and diving or pool accidents.
The Staggering Cost of Paralysis
The lifetime cost of a serious spinal cord injury can reach into the millions. It includes emergency and surgical care, lengthy rehabilitation, assistive equipment and wheelchairs, home and vehicle modifications, attendant care, and ongoing medical management of complications. On top of that is the loss of earning capacity, often for the rest of the person's working life.
Capturing these costs requires medical experts and a life-care planner who can map out, year by year, what the injury will require. An economist then translates that into present-day value.
Why Arizona's No-Cap Rule Is Crucial
In states that cap non-economic damages, a paralyzed accident victim can see their award for pain, suffering, and lost quality of life slashed dramatically. Arizona's constitution prohibits such caps, meaning a legitimate catastrophic claim can pursue the full measure of damages a jury finds appropriate.
For an injury this severe and this expensive, that protection can mean the difference between a future that is properly funded and one that is not.
Establishing Liability and Funding the Future
Whether the injury arose from a crash, a fall, or a defective product, identifying every responsible party and every available insurance policy is essential to funding a lifetime of care. A thorough investigation, often involving accident reconstruction and engineering experts, builds the foundation for maximum recovery.
Because evidence fades and the stakes are so high, a prompt free review is one of the most important steps a spinal cord injury victim and their family can take.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review. You pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Arizona attorney.