Parsippany Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Your Path to Fair Compensation After a Spinal Cord Injury

Spine injuries can be life-changing and debilitating. They can also be costly to treat, and many victims require ongoing care. If you or your loved one suffered a spine injury as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, among other damages.

At The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao, P.A., we understand how overwhelming this time may be for you. Our Parsippany spine injury lawyers are here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the maximum compensation you are owed. We have a proven track record of success, with more than 120 years of combined experience serving injured individuals and their families in Parsippany and throughout New Jersey.

Call The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao today at (973) 358-6134 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our spinal cord injury attorney in Parsippany!

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries 

A spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to the spinal cord resulting from trauma, disease, or degeneration. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. When the spinal cord is injured, it can lead to a loss of sensation, movement, and other bodily functions below the level of the injury.

Spine injuries are generally classified as “incomplete” or “complete.” Incomplete spine injuries are when the victim retains some degree of sensation and/or motor function below the injury site. Complete spine injuries are those in which the victim loses all sensation and motor function below the injury site.

Some of the most common types of spine injuries include:

• Tetraplegia (Quadriplegia): This type of injury affects the cervical spine region, resulting in partial or total loss of sensation and motor function in all four limbs, the trunk, and the pelvic organs. The severity of tetraplegia varies depending on the level of the injury.
• Paraplegia: Paraplegia affects the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral region of the spine, resulting in the partial or total loss of sensation and motor function in the lower half of the body, including the legs and trunk.
• Spinal fractures: These occur when the bones of the spine (vertebrae) are broken due to trauma. Fractures can cause damage to the spinal cord if bone fragments compress or penetrate the cord.
• Spinal cord contusion: This type of injury involves bruising or bleeding within the spinal cord, often caused by a blow to the spine. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, contusions can result in temporary or permanent loss of function.
• Spinal cord compression: Compression of the spinal cord can occur due to tumors, herniated discs, or other conditions that put pressure on the spinal cord. This compression can lead to damage and loss of function.
• Whiplash: Whiplash is a neck injury often resulting from a sudden jerking motion of the head forward or backward, commonly occurring in car accidents. While whiplash primarily affects the neck's soft tissues, it can also cause spinal cord injury if the force of the motion is severe enough to damage the spinal cord or nerves.
• Slipped disc (Herniated disc): This condition occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the tougher exterior casing. A herniated disc can cause pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area. Severe cases may lead to compression of the spinal cord itself, causing spinal cord injury.
• Pinched nerve (Radicular pain): A pinched nerve occurs when a nerve is compressed or pressured as it exits the spinal column. This compression can result from various conditions, such as herniated discs, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis. Pinched nerves can cause pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the nerve pathway, and in severe cases, they may lead to spinal cord injury.
• Spinal stenosis: Spinal stenosis is the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can pressure the spinal cord and nerves. This narrowing can result from various factors, including bone overgrowth, herniated discs, or thickened ligaments. Spinal stenosis can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, weakness, or difficulty walking, and in severe cases, it can lead to spinal cord injury.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) can result from various causes, each presenting unique challenges and implications for treatment and recovery. 

Here are some of the most common causes:

• Traumatic injury: Trauma is the leading cause of spinal cord injury. These injuries often result from motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports-related incidents, and violence (such as gunshot wounds or stabbings). The force of impact can fracture or dislocate vertebrae, causing damage to the spinal cord.
• Falls: Falls are a common cause of spinal cord injury, particularly among older adults. Falls from heights or slippery surfaces can lead to fractures or compression of the spinal cord, especially in the cervical (neck) or thoracic (upper back) regions.
• Motor vehicle accidents: Car, motorcycle, and other motor vehicle accidents frequently cause spinal cord injuries. The sudden deceleration or impact can result in compression, contusion, or severing of the spinal cord. Seatbelt use and airbags have reduced the incidence and severity of spinal cord injuries in some cases.
• Sports and recreational activities: Participation in high-impact sports (such as football, rugby, or gymnastics) or activities like diving into shallow water can lead to spinal cord injuries. Collisions, falls, or sudden movements during these activities can cause trauma to the spine and spinal cord.
• Violence: Acts of violence, including gunshot wounds, knife wounds, and physical assaults, can result in spinal cord injuries. Direct trauma to the spinal cord or nearby structures can cause damage and impair neurological function.
• Medical conditions and diseases: Certain conditions can indirectly lead to spinal cord injury. These include spinal tumors, spinal infections (such as meningitis or abscesses), spinal cord vascular disorders (like strokes or aneurysms), and degenerative spinal conditions (such as spinal stenosis or disc herniation). These conditions can compress or disrupt blood flow to the spinal cord, leading to injury or dysfunction. 
• Recreational activities: Activities such as diving into shallow water or accidents while playing sports can lead to spinal cord injuries if the head or neck experiences sudden impact or force.
• Work-related accidents: Some professions, particularly those involving construction, industrial work, or manual labor, carry a higher risk of spinal cord injury due to workplace accidents involving falls, heavy machinery, or other hazards.

Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Spinal Cord Injury Claims in New Jersey

In New Jersey, personal injury claims, including those for spinal injuries, must be filed within a set period called the statute of limitations. Generally, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the chance to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Some exceptions, such as cases involving minors or injuries that were not immediately discovered, may apply. At The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao, P.A., we ensure all deadlines are met, protecting your right to pursue a successful claim.

Our Parsippany spine injury attorneys comprehensively understand this complex area of law. We know how to navigate the legal system and have a proven track record of success. When you choose to work with our firm, you can be confident that we will provide the personalized legal guidance you need and deserve. We will be your tireless advocate every step of the way.

When you trust your case to The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao, P.A., you can expect us to:

• Conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and your injuries.
• Identify all potentially liable parties and sources of compensation
• Work with top medical professionals and experts to determine the full extent of your injuries and your anticipated future needs
• Handle all communication and negotiations with the insurance company and other parties involved
• Aggressively advocate for you at trial, if necessary

We understand that no two cases are the same. That’s why we take the time to listen to you and understand your unique needs and goals. We then create a tailored legal strategy designed to maximize your entitled compensation.

Contact Our Parsippany Spinal Cord Attorney Today

After a spinal cord injury, having a dedicated legal team is critical to navigating the complexities of your case and pursuing the compensation you're entitled to. At The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao, P.A., we are committed to guiding you through every stage of the legal process while advocating for your rights. Whether you are dealing with significant medical costs, loss of income, or ongoing care needs, our team is here to help you seek the justice you deserve. Reach out today for a free consultation, and let us assist you toward a more secure future.

Contact The Law Offices Of James C. DeZao today to schedule a meeting with our spinal cord injury lawyer in Parsippany!