Spinal Cord Injuries and Pedestrian Accidents: What You Need to Know

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most catastrophic injuries a person can sustain in a pedestrian accident. The impact of a vehicle colliding with a pedestrian can cause severe damage to the spinal cord, leading to permanent disability, paralysis, and a lifetime of challenges. Understanding the nature of SCIs, their consequences, and your legal options is crucial if you or a loved one has been affected.

The spinal cord is a long, delicate bundle of nerves that extends from the brain down the back, protected by the vertebrae (bones of the spine). It carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body, controlling movement, sensation, and many bodily functions.

Spinal cord injuries are classified as either complete or incomplete:

• Complete Spinal Cord Injury: This results in a complete loss of function (motor control and sensation) below the level of the injury. Both sides of the body are equally affected.
• Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury: This means that some function remains below the level of the injury. One side of the body may be more affected than the other, and the degree of function can vary widely.

Spinal cord injuries can also be described according the the area of the spine.

• Cervical
• Thoracic
• Lumbar
• Sacral

The symptoms of an SCI depend on the severity and location of the injury. They can include:

• Paralysis: Loss of movement in the arms, legs, or both.
• Loss of Sensation: Numbness, tingling, or a complete lack of feeling below the level of the injury.
• Muscle Weakness: Difficulty moving or controlling muscles.
• Spasticity: Involuntary muscle spasms or stiffness.
• Loss of Bowel and Bladder Control: Difficulty controlling bowel and bladder function.
• Respiratory Problems: Difficulty breathing, especially with injuries to the upper spinal cord.
• Pain: Chronic pain, including nerve pain, is common after an SCI.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Changes in sexual function.

Spinal cord injuries often have profound and lifelong consequences, including:

• Permanent Disability: The need for assistance with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, and eating.
• Wheelchair Dependence: Many individuals with SCIs require a wheelchair for mobility.
• Medical Complications: Increased risk of pressure sores, urinary tract infections, respiratory problems, and other health issues.
• Financial Burden: The lifetime costs of caring for someone with an SCI can be enormous, including medical expenses, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home modifications.
• Emotional and Psychological Impact: Depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges are common after an SCI.

Diagnosing an SCI involves a physical examination, neurological assessment, and imaging tests (X-rays, CT scans, MRIs). Treatment focuses on:

• Stabilizing the Spine: Preventing further damage to the spinal cord.
• Managing Medical Complications: Addressing immediate health issues.
• Rehabilitation: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other therapies to help regain as much function as possible and learn to adapt to life with an SCI.
• Long-Term Care: Ongoing medical care, assistance with daily living, and emotional support.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in a pedestrian accident due to someone else’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the costs of long-term care. An experienced Columbus pedestrian accident attorney at Hyslip Legal, LLC can help you understand your legal options and fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.