Spinal cord and back injuries are among the most devastating consequences of accidents caused by negligence. According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), approximately 18,000 new spinal cord injuries occur each year in the United States, with motor vehicle accidents and falls being the leading causes. These injuries can result in permanent disability, chronic pain, and life-altering limitations that affect every aspect of a victim’s daily life.
Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs from the brain down through the spinal column. It serves as the primary pathway for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body, controlling movement, sensation, and bodily functions. When the spinal cord is damaged, these signals can be partially or completely disrupted.
Spinal cord injuries are classified by their location and completeness:
Location Of Injury
Cervical (Neck) Injuries – Injuries to the cervical spine (C1-C8) can result in quadriplegia (also called tetraplegia), affecting all four limbs and potentially impairing breathing. Approximately 55% of spinal cord injuries affect the cervical region.
Thoracic (Upper/Mid-Back) Injuries – Injuries to the thoracic spine (T1-T12) typically result in paraplegia, affecting the legs and lower body while leaving arm function intact.
Lumbar and Sacral (Lower Back) Injuries – Injuries to the lumbar (L1-L5) or sacral spine affect the hips, legs, and bladder/bowel function but may allow for some mobility with assistance.
Completeness Of Injury
Complete Spinal Cord Injury – A complete injury results in total loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury. The spinal cord’s ability to transmit signals is entirely blocked.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury – An incomplete injury means some nerve pathways remain intact, allowing partial sensation or movement below the injury level. Recovery potential is generally greater with incomplete injuries.
Common Causes Of Spinal Cord And Back Injuries
Many spinal cord and back injuries result from preventable accidents caused by negligence:
Motor Vehicle Accidents – Car accidents, motorcycle crashes, and truck collisions are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for approximately 38% of all cases.
Falls – Slip and fall accidents caused by hazardous conditions are the second leading cause, responsible for about 32% of spinal cord injuries. Falls are particularly dangerous for older adults.
Acts of Violence – Assaults involving gunshot wounds or other trauma account for approximately 15% of spinal cord injuries.
Sports and Recreation – Diving accidents, contact sports, and recreational activities cause about 8% of spinal cord injuries.
Medical and Surgical Complications – Errors during surgery or medical procedures can also cause spinal cord damage.
Types Of Back Injuries
Not all back injuries involve the spinal cord itself. Other serious back injuries include:
Herniated Discs
The spinal discs act as cushions between vertebrae. When a disc ruptures or bulges (herniates), it can press on nearby nerves, causing pain, numbness, and weakness. Herniated discs commonly occur in the lumbar (lower back) and cervical (neck) regions.
Vertebral Fractures
Broken vertebrae can occur from high-impact trauma such as car accidents or falls. Compression fractures, burst fractures, and fracture-dislocations can all cause significant pain and instability, potentially threatening the spinal cord.
Spinal Stenosis
Trauma can cause or accelerate narrowing of the spinal canal, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. This condition often causes pain, numbness, and weakness that worsens over time.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Sprains and strains affecting the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the back can cause significant pain and limited mobility, though they typically heal with proper treatment.
Symptoms Of Spinal Cord And Back Injuries
Symptoms depend on the type, location, and severity of the injury:
Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms:
- Loss of movement or sensation below the injury site
- Difficulty breathing or coughing
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations
- Muscle spasms
- Changes in sexual function
- Extreme pain or pressure in the back or neck
Other Back Injury Symptoms:
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Radiating pain into arms or legs
- Numbness or weakness in extremities
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty standing or walking
Anyone experiencing these symptoms after an accident should seek immediate medical attention.
Long-Term Effects And Lifetime Costs
Spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care and support. According to NSCISC data, the lifetime costs of a spinal cord injury can range from approximately $1.2 million to over $5 million, depending on the severity of injury and age at the time of injury.
Long-term effects may include:
- Permanent paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia)
- Chronic pain
- Respiratory complications
- Pressure sores and skin problems
- Urinary tract infections and kidney problems
- Depression and psychological challenges
- Reduced life expectancy
People with spinal cord injuries are two to five times more likely to die prematurely than those without such injuries, making comprehensive medical care and support essential.
Compensation For Spinal Cord And Back Injuries
Given the catastrophic nature of these injuries, compensation in spinal cord injury cases is often substantial. Recoverable damages may include:
- Emergency medical treatment and hospitalization
- Surgery and ongoing medical care
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Assistive devices (wheelchairs, mobility aids)
- Home and vehicle modifications
- In-home care and nursing services
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
For more information, see our guide on economic vs. non-economic damages in California.
Talk To A California Personal Injury Lawyer
Spinal cord and back injury cases require attorneys who understand both the medical complexities and the long-term financial implications of these devastating injuries. At Cohen Injury Law Group, our spinal cord injury lawyers fight for maximum compensation for victims throughout Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Malibu, and all of California.
Contact us today for a free consultation.