Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Orland Park IL

A spinal cord injury (SCI) can change your life instantly. These devastating injuries often lead to long-term or permanent disabilities that require intensive medical care, physical therapy, and emotional support. The journey to recovery is long and expensive, not just physically but also financially and emotionally.

At the Law Offices of Michael J. Brennan, we understand the overwhelming nature of this experience. As a former state attorney with over 40 years of legal experience, Michael Brennan provides dedicated advocacy and compassionate guidance for SCI victims and their families. If your injury was caused by another person’s negligence, we are here to assist you in seeking justice and financial compensation.

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    What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

    A spinal cord injury occurs when an injury affects the ability of the spinal cord to transmit signals between the brain and the body. Spinal cord injuries are typically classified as:

    Complete: complete loss of sensation and movement below the injury.

     Incomplete: some degree of movement or sensation remains below the injury.

    Common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

    •  Car accidents
    • Slip and fall accidents
    •  Sports or recreational injuries
    • Medical malpractice
    •  Acts of violence

    Long-term consequences of injury may include partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, breathing difficulties, and dependence on assistive devices.

    Why Spinal Cord Injury Cases Are Unique

    Spinal cord injury (SCI) cases are among the most complex and high-risk personal injury cases. They require a comprehensive approach due to the profound medical, legal and financial consequences they have. This is why they are unique:

    Extensive Medical Evidence: Spinal cord injury cases often require extensive medical documentation, including MRI scans, CT scans and detailed records of surgery and rehabilitation.

    High Lifetime Costs: The financial impact of a spinal cord injury is significant. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistics Center, the average lifetime cost of treatment for a spinal cord injury can range from $1.2 million to over $5 million, depending on the severity and age at the time of injury.

    Permanent Disabilities: Most spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent loss of motor and sensory function, either partially or completely. Victims may experience:

    • Paralysis or quadriplegia
    • Chronic pain or spasms
    •  Loss of bladder, bowel or sexual function
    • Respiratory issues that require ventilator assistance.

    Emotional and psychological impact: In addition to physical impairments, individuals who suffer from spinal cord injuries often experience depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These emotional struggles can also affect family members and caregivers, who may face lifestyle changes and increased caregiving responsibilities. Psychotherapy becomes an essential part of recovery for many individuals and is often included in compensation plans.

    Compensation Available in SCI Cases

    Securing fair compensation for a spinal cord injury involves determining and quantifying both financial and non-financial losses, as well as potential punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm.

    Medical Expense

    •  Emergency medical care and hospitalization
    • Surgery and intensive care
    •  Long-term rehabilitation (physical, occupational, speech therapy)
    •  Prescription medications
    •  Follow-up consultations and assistive care

    Loss of Income and Earning Capacity

    • Loss of wages during the recovery process.
    • Potential loss of future earnings, depending on age, occupation, and any disabilities.
    • If possible, retraining or vocational rehabilitation.

    Home and Lifestyle Adjustments

    • Wheelchairs, hospital beds, and assistive technologies
    • Modifications to your home (ramps, wider doors, roll-in showers)
    • Modifications to your vehicle for accessibility
    • In-home nursing or personal care aides

    Start Your Recovery in Illinois Today

    If you or a loved one has suffered spinal cord injury due to another person’s negligence, you don’t have to face this difficult situation alone. Attorney Michael J. Brennan has years of experience in courtrooms, a deep understanding of the law, and a commitment to fighting for justice and compensation that you deserve.