What is Quadriplegia?
Quadriplegia is a type of paralysis that results in the partial or total loss of control of all of one’s limbs and torso. It is similar to paraplegia, which is the loss of control over one’s torso and legs.
Quadriplegia can happen as a result of a brain or spinal cord injury sustained in an accident. In many cases, it is a permanent condition. In those where it is not permanent, the victim overcomes quadriplegia by relearning how to use his or her limbs through intensive, painstaking rehabilitation. In any case where an individual becomes quadriplegic as a result of another party’s negligence, the victim may be entitled to monetary compensation through a personal injury claim.
Types of Accidents That Can Lead to Quadriplegia
In any accident where the brain or spinal cord suffers trauma, quadriplegia can occur. These are known as catastrophic injuries.
Examples of accidents that can lead to catastrophic injuries include:
- Car accidents;
- Falls;
- Animal attacks;
- Slips;
- Pedestrian accidents; and
- Impact from a thrown, falling, or projectile object.
In any accident where a catastrophic injury occurs, it is critical that the victim receive immediate medical attention. Call 911 to have emergency medical personnel sent to the scene right away if you are involved in this type of accident.
Complications that Can Accompany Quadriplegia
Quadriplegia causes a victim to suffer a whole host of other afflictions, such as the following:
- Impaired breathing;
- Loss of sexual function;
- Lost or impaired bladder and bowel control;
- Spasticity;
- Deep vein thrombosis;
- Pressure sores;
- Frozen joints; and
- Cardiovascular disease.
Another common co-morbidity with quadriplegia is obesity, which can lead to other diseases like diabetes or make existing health problems worse.
Seeking Compensation for Quadriplegia and Related Issues
If you receive a diagnosis of quadriplegia or any other type of paralysis following an accident, you could find yourself facing significant expenses. Beyond the immediate expenses like your medical bills, you could potentially face a lifetime disability and the need for mobility aids and renovations to your home. Work with an experienced personal injury attorney to develop a case for your personal injury claim by procuring all the necessary evidence to support your claim and proving that your injury was directly caused by the allegedly responsible party’s reckless or negligent actions. In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is four years from the date of the accident.
Winter Park Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help
Quadriplegia and similar conditions can change your life forever. This change can come with significant expenses and the possibility of never working again. Do not allow your condition to leave you without the money you need for your medical and other expenses. If you have been injured in an accident caused by another party’s negligence, contact our team of experienced personal injury attorneys at Hornsby Law today to schedule your free legal consultation with our Winter Park firm.
