When faced with the life-altering consequences of a spinal cord injury in Montana, finding a lawyer who understands the complex nature of your situation is crucial. Spinal cord injuries are not only physically devastating but can also impact every aspect of your life, from your ability to work to your daily routines.
The Montana spinal cord injury lawyers at Kortum Law Office, P.L.L.C., are skilled in representing those who have suffered spinal cord injuries, and fighting for them to receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Call us today to learn more about your options.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is a vital part of the nervous system, comprising a bundle of nerve fibers enclosed within the spine. It plays a critical role in sending messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
Spinal cord injuries are categorized into two main types:
- Complete
- Incomplete
A complete spinal cord injury involves a total severance of the spinal cord, resulting in a loss of function below the injury point. Conversely, an incomplete spinal cord injury occurs when the cord is partially damaged, allowing the victim to retain some function in their limbs.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Montana include:
- Automobile Accidents: These are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, often resulting from the high-impact forces involved in collisions.
- Workplace Falls: Particularly common in construction and other industries where working from heights is frequent.
- Medical Malpractice: Surgical errors or other medical negligence can lead to devastating spinal injuries.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Treatment
Early recognition and treatment of spinal cord injuries can significantly affect recovery outcomes. Some key symptoms include:
- Loss of motor control in limbs
- Numbness or tingling sensations
- Pain or intense stinging in the back or limbs
Treatment typically involves a combination of diagnostic tests like X-rays and MRIs, medication, and in some cases, surgery. Immediate medical attention is essential for any suspected spinal cord injury.
Navigating the Legal Landscape After a Spinal Cord Injury
When pursuing a legal case for a spinal cord injury, establishing who is at fault is a critical step. This process often involves examining detailed evidence and may include parties like negligent drivers or employers.
Victims of spinal cord injuries face a myriad of challenges and expenses, and the law entitles them to seek compensation for these hardships. Understanding the types of damages that can be pursued is crucial for anyone affected by such an injury.
- Medical Expenses: This includes all medical costs incurred from the injury – emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapies. Given the nature of spinal cord injuries, these costs can be substantial and ongoing.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Many victims are unable to return to work, either temporarily or permanently. Compensation can cover lost wages and, if the injury affects long-term earning capacity, the potential future earnings lost due to the injury.
- Pain and Suffering: This non-economic damage compensates for the physical pain and emotional distress suffered due to the injury. It acknowledges the intangible, yet profound, impact of a spinal cord injury on a person’s life.
- Life Care Costs: A severe spinal cord injury may require modifications to the victim’s home, special equipment like wheelchairs, and even round-the-clock care. These life care costs ensure that the victim can lead as comfortable and independent a life as possible post-injury.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages might be awarded. These are intended not just to compensate the victim, but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.
Each case is unique, and the specific damages pursued will depend on the circumstances and severity of the injury. Our Montana spinal cord injury attorneys have the experience to evaluate all aspects of your case and fight for the full range of compensation you deserve.
Why Choose Kortum Law Office, P.L.L.C?
Our law firm stands out due to our deep understanding of spinal cord injury cases in Montana. We bring over two decades of experience in personal injury law, with a track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. We are committed to providing compassionate, comprehensive legal representation tailored to the unique needs of each client.
Consult with an Experienced Montana Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer at Kortum Law Office, P.L.L.C.
If you or a loved one is grappling with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury in Montana, do not navigate this challenging time alone. Contact an experienced Montana spinal cord injury lawyer at Kortum Law Office, P.L.L.C. today for a free consultation. We are here to listen to your story, provide professional legal advice, and fight tirelessly for the compensation and justice you deserve.