Personal Injury Liability

Spinal injuries are among the most serious and life-altering traumas a person can experience. The spine is not only the backbone of our skeletal system but also the main conduit for nerve signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spine is injured, the consequences can range from temporary pain to permanent paralysis. At Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson, our personal injury attorneys have seen firsthand how devastating spinal injuries can be for victims and their families. Understanding the most common causes of these injuries is the first step toward prevention and, if necessary, seeking justice.

Understanding Spinal Injuries

The spine is made up of vertebrae, discs, nerves, and the spinal cord itself. Injuries can affect any part of this complex structure, but the most severe involve damage to the spinal cord, which can result in loss of movement, sensation, or function below the site of injury. Spinal injuries are typically classified as either complete (total loss of function below the injury) or incomplete (some function remains). The impact of a spinal injury depends on its location and severity, but all spinal injuries require immediate medical attention.

The Most Common Causes of Spinal Injuries

1. Motor Vehicle Accidents

Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of spinal injuries in the United States. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, car, truck, and motorcycle crashes account for nearly half of all new spinal cord injuries each year. The force of a collision can cause the spine to twist, compress, or fracture, leading to serious damage.

Why are car accidents so dangerous for the spine?

• High speeds and sudden stops can cause whiplash or direct trauma.
• Rollovers and ejections increase the risk of severe injury.
• Failure to wear seatbelts or use proper restraints can worsen outcomes.

2. Falls

Falls are the second most common cause of spinal injuries, particularly among older adults. Slipping on wet floors, falling from ladders, or tripping on uneven surfaces can all result in spinal trauma. In workplaces, falls from heights are a significant risk, especially in construction and industrial settings.

Key risk factors for fall-related spinal injuries:

• Age-related balance issues or osteoporosis.
• Unsafe work environments or lack of safety equipment.
• Poor lighting or cluttered walkways at home.

3. Acts of Violence

Violent incidents, including gunshot wounds, stabbings, and physical assaults, are a major cause of spinal injuries, especially in urban areas. Gunshots are particularly devastating, as bullets can sever or severely damage the spinal cord.

Preventing violence-related spinal injuries:

• Community programs aimed at reducing violence.
• Safe storage of firearms.
• Conflict resolution education.

4. Sports and Recreational Activities

Athletic activities, especially contact sports like football, rugby, and hockey, carry a risk of spinal injury. Diving into shallow water, gymnastics, and extreme sports such as snowboarding or motocross also pose significant dangers.

How do sports cause spinal injuries?

• High-impact collisions or tackles.
• Falls or awkward landings.
• Lack of protective gear or improper technique.

5. Medical or Surgical Complications

Though less common, spinal injuries can occur as a result of medical procedures or complications. For example, errors during spinal surgery, anesthesia injections, or even certain diagnostic procedures can inadvertently damage the spinal cord or nerves.

Reducing medical risks:

• Choosing experienced healthcare providers.
• Asking questions about procedures and risks.
• Seeking second opinions for major surgeries.

6. Diseases and Conditions

Certain diseases, such as cancer, arthritis, or infections, can weaken the spine and make it more susceptible to injury. Tumors may compress the spinal cord, while infections like meningitis can cause inflammation and damage.

Common conditions leading to spinal injuries:

• Osteoporosis, which weakens bones and increases fracture risk.
• Spinal stenosis, or narrowing of the spinal canal.
• Autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system.

The Impact of Spinal Injuries

The consequences of a spinal injury can be profound and lifelong. Victims may face:

• Paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia)
• Chronic pain
• Loss of sensation or function
• Bladder and bowel control issues
• Emotional and psychological challenges

The financial burden can also be overwhelming, with costs for medical care, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home modifications quickly adding up.

Prevention Tips

While not all spinal injuries can be prevented, many can be avoided with proper precautions:

• Always wear seatbelts and use appropriate child restraints in vehicles.
• Install grab bars and non-slip mats in bathrooms and stairways.
• Use proper safety equipment at work and during sports.
• Never dive into shallow or unknown waters.
• Maintain regular check-ups to monitor bone health and address medical conditions early.

Legal Rights After a Spinal Injury

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury due to someone else’s negligence—whether in a car accident, a fall on unsafe property, or a medical error—you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand your rights, investigate the cause of your injury, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Ready to Discuss Your Case? Contact Pulvers, Pulvers & Thompson Today

Spinal injuries are life-changing events that can happen in an instant. By understanding the most common causes—motor vehicle accidents, falls, violence, sports, medical complications, and disease—you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. If tragedy strikes, know that you are not alone. Our team of experienced personal injury attorneys is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the support you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free, zero obligation to discuss the merits of your case.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique. For advice specific to your situation, please consult with a qualified attorney.