Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Each year in the United States, about 200,000 people suffer from spinal cord injuries (SCIs).Most injuries are the result of an accident or a tragedy.Specifically, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Association, the most common causes of SCIs in the United States are: 

• Motor vehicle accidents. Automobile and motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 48 percent of new spinal cord injuries each year.
• Falls. Spinal injuries after age 65 are most often caused by a fall. Overall, falls cause 21 percent of spinal cord injuries.
• Acts of violence. As many as 15 percent of spine injuries result from violent encounters, often involving gunshot and knife wounds.
• Sports and recreation injuries. Athletic activities, such as impact sports and diving in shallow water, cause about 14 percent of spinal cord and back injuries.
• Alcohol. Alcohol use is a factor in two percent of spinal cord injuries.

An analysis of the statistics reveals that violence-related SCIs are increasing while SCIs resulting from motor vehicles accidents are decreasing.  The leading cause of violent SCIs is gunshot wounds. Moreover, violence is a more likely cause with younger people, while falls are more common among the elderly.  It appears that advancements in technology and design have the ability to make cars safer. Yet, there are no similar efforts underway to make a bullet less lethal or disabling.

Seek experienced legal representation

If you or a loved one suffers a spinal cord injury, it is important to consult with a spinal injury lawyer as soon as you are able.  You deserve fair compensation for your spine injuries, and litigation may be required to make sure you have the resources to obtain an adequate recovery. 

The time frame within which you are allowed to file a claim (statute of limitations) begins on the date of the injury and may only last a couple of years.  Also, near the date of the injury, it is important to conduct an investigation into the cause of the injury, its nature and extent, and to gather and preserve evidence and witness testimony.  Experienced spine injury law firm will know the proper steps that need to be taken to secure your rights.

At The Cartwright Law Firm, our spine injury attorneys have a wealth of experience in representing people in personal injury, medical malpractice, and wrongful death cases, with particular knowledge, skill and understanding in dealing with spinal cord injuries.

• Back Injury
• Head Injury
• Brain Injury

If you are the victim of a spinal cord injury, contact The Cartwright Law Firm for a free consultation regarding your legal rights.  Our spinal cord injury attorneys are knowledgeable in spinal cord injuries and back injuries. Contact us via email or call us at 888-351-8460 or 415-433-0444 for a free consultation.