Catastrophic Injury Lawyer: Cleveland

There are many catastrophic injuries that can occur as a result of an accident; from devastating burn injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) to spinal cord injuries (SCIs).

While spinal cord injuries can vary greatly in terms of their severity, one devastating and debilitating consequence of a spinal cord injury is paralysis. Although paralysis can sometimes be temporary, it is often a permanent result, leaving the victim disabled for the rest of his or her life.

The following information will provide more insight about paralysis injuries, severe burns and traumatic brain injuries. I encourage you to call me if another party is responsible for your horrific injuries. As an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer in Cleveland, I can help navigate your paralysis injury claim, and obtain monetary compensation for you.

Getting the Facts About Paralysis 

How often do paralysis injuries occur, and how many people are currently living with this debilitating injury? The following facts and figures were obtained from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation:

• About one in 50 people are currently living with paralysis (or around 5.4 million people).

• While stroke is the leading cause of paralysis, spinal cord injuries result in more than 27% of all paralysis cases.

• Only about 15.5% of people who are living with paralysis are employed.

• More than 40% of people with paralysis report they are totally and permanently disabled.

• Paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries results most often from car crashes (more than 25%), followed by falls.

• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis end up costing more than $40 billion annually.

Types of Paralysis

 There are four general types of paralysis:

Monoplegia

Monoplegia is a condition characterized by paralysis or loss of movement in a single limb, typically an arm or leg, while the rest of the body remains unaffected. Monoplegia can be caused by various factors, including nerve damage, spinal cord injury, or stroke. Personal injury claims may be filed if the paralysis was caused by somebody else’s negligence. For example:

1. Medical negligence- If a healthcare professional fails to diagnose or properly treat a condition that leads to nerve damage or paralysis in a limb, it may be considered medical negligence.

2. Traumatic accidents- Negligence in situations such as car accidents, workplace accidents, or sporting activities can result in severe injuries that lead to monoplegia. For instance, a negligent driver who caused a collision that resulted in nerve or spinal cord damage.

Hemiplegia

Hemiplegia is a condition characterized by paralysis or loss of movement on one side of the body. It commonly affects one arm and one leg on the same side, although the severity can vary. Hemiplegia is typically caused by damage or injury to the brain, particularly the motor cortex or the pathways that control movement. Paralysis injury victims will need monetary compensation for future medical bills and lifestyle chances.

In some cases, negligence can be a contributing factor in the development of hemiplegia:

1. Medical negligence- Hemiplegia may occur due to medical negligence, such as errors during surgical procedures, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of conditions that lead to brain damage (e.g., strokes or infections), or improper administration of medications.

2. Birth injuries- It can also result from birth injuries caused by medical negligence, such as complications during delivery, improper use of delivery instruments, or failure to respond to fetal distress.

Paraplegia

Paraplegia is a condition characterized by paralysis or loss of function in the lower half of the body, typically affecting both legs and sometimes a part of the trunk. It occurs as a result of damage to the spinal cord, usually in the thoracic region or below. The sudden inability to walk has a dramatic effect on the victim’s life, both mentally and physically. I’ve been a successful personal injury attorney for more than 40 years, and I know how to win! You can’t go it alone…. Let me help you get the care you need and compensation your deserve. Call me today for a free consultation.

The causes of paraplegia may include:

1. Spinal cord injuries- Traumatic events such as car accidents, falls, or acts of violence can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paraplegia.

2. Surgical complications- Rarely, surgical procedures involving the spinal cord or adjacent structures can result in complications that lead to paraplegia.

Quadriplegia

Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is paralysis or loss of function in all four limbs and the trunk. It occurs due to injury of the spinal cord in the cervical region (neck) of the spinal column.

Quadriplegia can be caused by various factors:

1. Spinal cord injuries- Car accidents, work accidents, extreme falls, and diving accidents can al result in severe damage to the cervical spinal cord, leading to quadriplegia.

2. Medical conditions- Certain medical conditions, such as spinal cord tumors and spinal infections, require immediate treatment. If the treatment results in paralysis, it may be due to negligence.

I became a Cleveland catastrophic injury lawyer to fight for my clients to get the help they need. Paralysis is a condition that leaves the patient with a lifetime of medical expenses, just to live somewhat normally. If you have been paralyzed because of medical negligence, reckless behavior, or a car accident, you need to call me today and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Lifestyle Adjustments Because Of Paralysis

Paralysis, whether partial or complete, can result in significant lifestyle changes due to the physical limitations it imposes. Personal injury lawyers like myself, work to ensure injury victims are justly compensated to help offset the cost of life-long medical care. Depending on the level and extent of paralysis injury, lifestyle adjustments will be necessary:

Mobility and Independence

Paralysis affects mobility and the ability to perform daily activities. As a result, lifestyle changes may involve:

1. Use of mobility aids- You may need to rely on assistive devices such as wheelchairs, crutches, or walkers to get around.

2. Adaptations to the living environment- Modifications to the home, such as ramps, widened doorways, and grab bars, may be necessary to improve accessibility.

3. Transportation- Alternative transportation options, such as accessible vehicles or transportation services for people with disabilities, may be required to maintain mobility outside the home.

Personal Care and Activities of Daily Living

Paralysis can impact the ability to perform self-care tasks and other independent activities. Lifestyle changes may involve:

1. Personal care assistance- You may require assistance with tasks such as bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and eating.

2. Adaptive equipment- Specialized tools or assistive devices can enable individuals to maintain a level of independence in performing daily activities. These may include adaptive utensils, dressing aids, or bathing equipment.

Rehabilitation and Therapy

Rehabilitation and therapy play a vital role in maintaining function, promoting independence, and improving quality of life for individuals living with paralysis. Lifestyle changes may include:

1. Regular therapy sessions- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and/or speech therapy may be necessary to maximize mobility, strength, coordination, and speech capabilities.

2. Home exercise programs- If you’ve been paralyzed, you may need to incorporate prescribed exercises or stretches into your daily routines to maintain muscle strength and to prevent complications.

Assistive Technologies and Adaptive Devices

Various assistive technologies and adaptive devices can enhance independence and participation in daily activities. Lifestyle changes may involve:

1. Augmentative and alternative communication devices- These assistive technologies help individuals with speech impairments to communicate effectively.

2. Environmental control systems- Automation systems can be used to control household devices, such as lights, temperature, or electronic appliances, using voice commands or switch controls.

3. Adaptive computer equipment- Specialized keyboards, mice, or software can enable individuals with limited mobility to access and navigate computers or other electronic devices.

Emotional Support and Mental Well-Being

Adjusting to life paralyzed results in a significant emotional impact. Lifestyle changes may involve:

1. Psychosocial support- Accessing mental health professionals, counselors, or support groups can help individuals cope with the psychological and emotional aspects of paralysis.

2. Participation in recreational and social activities- Engaging in hobbies, adaptive sports, and social gatherings can contribute to a sense of fulfillment, social connection, and overall well-being.

Through my experience as a personal injury lawyer, I’ve seen the medical expenses pile up. Especially under the horrific circumstance of a paralysis injury. If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury due to medical malpractice, or a serious accident, you need to call me to file a personal injury claim. I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Statute of Limitations for a Paralysis Injury Lawsuit

If you suffered an injury that has left you paralyzed, you should not wait any longer to file a lawsuit. Under Ohio law, you will have only two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

If you wait any longer, Ohio personal injury law will say that you have a time-barred claim and that you are ineligible to seek financial compensation. Given that injuries causing paralysis are extremely costly, it is essential to get your claim filed before the clock runs out.

Additional Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Concussion

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head. It can result in temporary disruption of normal brain function. Concussions commonly occur due to falls, accidents or physical assaults. Symptoms may include headache, confusion, dizziness, memory problems, sensitivity to light or noise, and changes in mood or sleep patterns. In some cases, loss of consciousness may occur but is not necessary for a diagnosis.

To allow someone with a concussion to live a normal life, it is essential to follow a few steps:

1. Rest and recovery- The person should rest both physically and mentally to allow the brain to heal. This includes avoiding physical activities, limiting screen time, and getting adequate sleep.

2. Gradual return to activities- After a period of rest, you can gradually resume normal activities. It’s important to monitor symptoms and avoid activities that exacerbate them.

3. Medical evaluation and treatment- If symptoms persist or worsen, medical evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary. They may recommend medication or therapies to manage specific symptoms.

Contusion

A contusion refers to a bruise or bleeding in the brain tissue caused by a direct impact to the head. It often occurs due to falls, motor vehicle accidents, or physical assaults. The severity and long-term effects depend on the size and location of the contusion.

The changes in someone’s life following a contusion can vary widely depending on the extent of the injury. Some possible effects include:

1. Physical changes- Motor control, coordination, and balance may be affected. Weakness or paralysis of limbs, difficulty speaking or swallowing, and changes in sensory perception can also occur.

2. Cognitive and emotional changes- Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, changes in judgment or decision-making, mood swings, anxiety, and depression are common. Personality changes and difficulties with impulse control may also arise.

3. Rehabilitation and therapy- Treatment typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cognitive rehabilitation. These therapies help improve motor skills, regain independence in daily activities, and address cognitive and emotional challenges.

Diffuse Axonal Injury

Diffuse Axonal injury is a severe form of traumatic brain injury caused by the brain’s rotational forces during high-impact events such as motor vehicle accidents or severe falls. It involves widespread damage to nerve fibers (axons) throughout the brain. The consequences of these serious injuries can be significant and long-lasting:

1. Cognitive impairments- Memory loss, attention deficits, difficulty with problem-solving, and impaired executive functions can occur.

2. Physical impairments- Weakness, paralysis, difficulties with coordination, and balance problems may be present. Speech and swallowing difficulties can also arise.

3. Rehabilitation and therapy- Rehabilitation programs often involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to address specific deficits. Cognitive rehabilitation focuses on improving cognitive functions, while physical therapy aims to restore motor skills and mobility.

4. Adaptive strategies and assistive devices- Depending on the individual’s specific impairments, adaptive strategies and assistive devices such as mobility aids, communication devices, and memory aids can help compensate for lost abilities.

These traumatic injuries will have a long lasting effect on your life. During my more than 40 years as a lawyer, I have fought to recover compensation for lost wages and medical bills for my clients with a serious injury. I want to help. Call me today for a free case evaluation!

Burn Injuries

Full-Thickness Burns

Full-thickness burns, also known as third-degree burns, involves damage to all layers of the skin and underlying tissues. This an be caused by direct contact with flames, scalding liquids, chemicals, electricity, or prolonged exposure to extreme heat sources.

Changes in someone’s life following full-thickness burns can be profound:

1. Physical impairments- An injured victim may have extensive tissue damage. This can lead to loss of sensation, impaired mobility, joint contractures, and scarring. Burned areas may require grafting or reconstructive surgeries.

2. Rehabilitation and therapy- Extensive rehabilitation is often necessary to restore function and mobility. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized burn rehabilitation programs can help improve range of motion, strength, and independence.

3. Scar management- Scar management techniques, such as pressure garments, silicone sheets, and topical treatments, may be used to minimize scarring and improve functionality.

Inhalation Injuries

Inhalation injuries occur when a person breathes in toxic fumes, superheated air, or smoke during a fire or explosion. This type of injury is typically due to a workplace accident. The sustained injuries may be severe causing damage to the respiratory system, including the lungs, airways, and nasal passages.

Inhalation injuries can have lasting effects on a person’s life:

1. Respiratory impairment- Inhalation injuries can cause airway obstruction, lung damage, bronchial constriction, and pulmonary complications. This may result in breathing difficulties, reduced lung capacity, chronic coughing, or a higher risk of respiratory infections.

2. Rehabilitation and medical management- Immediate medical treatment and ongoing respiratory therapy are crucial. This may involve bronchodilators, airway clearance techniques, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary rehabilitation.

3. Emotional support and counseling- Inhalation injuries can be traumatic and emotionally distressing. Mental health support, including counseling and therapy, can help individuals cope with the psychological impact and manage any anxiety or PTSD symptoms.

4. Prevention and lifestyle modifications- To minimize the risk of future complications, individuals may need to make lifestyle changes, such as avoiding smoke, maintaining good respiratory hygiene, and staying up-to-date with vaccinations.

Electrical Burns

Electrical burns occur when an electric current passes through the body, causing thermal damage. They are commonly caused by contact with exposed electrical wires or high-voltage machinery.

The consequences of electrical burns can be significant:

1. Tissue damage and nerve injury- Electrical burns can cause deep tissue damage, destruction of muscle and nerves, and internal organ injuries. Loss of sensation, muscle weakness, and long-term pain may occur.

2. Cardiac and neurological effects- Electrical burns can disrupt the heart’s rhythm and cause cardiac arrest or arrhythmias. They can also result in neurological complications, including seizures, memory problems, or cognitive impairments.

3. Medical treatment and rehabilitation- Immediate medical attention is essential to address any life-threatening injuries. Burn care specialists and rehabilitation teams may provide wound management, surgical interventions, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

4. Cardiac monitoring and follow-up care- Individuals with electrical burns may require long-term cardiac monitoring and follow-up care to ensure proper cardiac function and manage any associated complications. Additionally, psychological support may be beneficial to address any emotional trauma resulting from the incident.

Chemical Burns

Chemical burns occur when the skin or eyes come into contact with strong acids, alkalis, or corrosive substances. They commonly result from accidents involving household or industrial chemicals.

Chemical burns can have significant implications for a person’s life:

1. Skin and tissue damage- Chemical burns can cause deep tissue damage, scarring, and disfigurement. They may require decontamination and specialized wound care to prevent further damage and promote healing.

2. Eye injuries and vision impairment- Chemical burns to the eyes can lead to vision loss, corneal damage, or other ocular complications. Urgent irrigation of the eyes is crucial, followed by ophthalmological assessment and treatment.

3. Rehabilitation and psychosocial support- Rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, scar management, and psychological support to cope with the physical and emotional impact of the burns. Occupational therapy can help individuals regain independence in daily activities.

4. Education and preventive measures- Providing education on proper handling and storage of chemicals, as well as using personal protective equipment, can help prevent future incidents. Additionally, support groups or counseling can provide a sense of community and assistance in adjusting to the new challenges.

Contact Tim, Your Catastrophic Injury Attorney in Cleveland

Nobody should have to suffer a catastrophic injury that results in a permanent disability. Injuries that cause paralysis, severe burns, or traumatic brain injuries result in permanent changes to a person’s life and well-being.

If someone else was responsible for the injury that led to your paralysis, I want to help you seek the financial compensation you deserve. As an experienced Cleveland catastrophic injury attorney, I have represented injured plaintiffs for years in a wide variety of catastrophic injury cases. I’ll Make Them Pay!® Do not hesitate to call me today. No out of pocket cost to you!