Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys in Tampa & Sarasota, Florida

A spinal cord injury, or SCI, is a serious medical condition known to cause long-term effects on the injured party and their loved ones. The majority of spinal cord injuries occur as a result of auto accidents, with others occurring from slip and falls, assaults, and more. Oftentimes, victims are left with symptoms that will last years and, in many cases, a lifetime.

If you or a loved one possibly suffers from a SCI, seek immediate medical attention. Time is of the essence with these types of injuries, and quick treatment can significantly impact the victim’s future.

Spinal Cord Injury Verdicts & Settlements We’ve Won

  • Spinal Cord Injury, Motor Vehicle Crash / Rear-End Collision – $19,300,000 (Verdict)
  • Wrongful Death, Spinal Cord Injury, Truck / Work Zone Crash – $11,000,000 (Verdict)
  • Spinal Cord Injury / Apartment Complex / Premises Liability – $3,800,000 (Settlment)

See all of our verdicts and settlements.*

*Each case is different. Past outcomes are not indicative of future results.

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

Spinal cord or nerve root injuries can occur at many different levels of the spine. The symptoms and consequences differ significantly depending on the level of the injury and whether the injury is “incomplete” or “complete.” Typically, these issues arise from swelling, bleeding, or compression around the spinal cord itself.

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

 Incomplete spinal cord injuries mean the victim has lost some, but not all motor and sensory function below the point of injury. There are varying degrees of severity for such injuries. This type of injury is the most common of the two, and typically provides a better outlook towards recovery.

Complete Spinal Cord Injury

Complete spinal cord injuries are the most severe, resulting in complete loss of motor control and feeling below the point in which the spinal cord injury has occurred. Typically, these injuries occur farther up in the spine or as a result of a severed spinal cord.

Long-Term Effects of Spinal Cord Injuries

Similar to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries can have severe and long-lasting effects on victims and their families. In some cases, the effects of spinal cord injury can have lifelong implications – leading to a loss in quality of life and the need for long-term care. Victims of such injuries commonly suffer from herniated discs, chronic back pain, breathing difficulties, loss of bladder control, and impaired motor and cognitive abilities.

Common Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury

Depending on the severity of the injury, victims may suffer a number of symptoms including:

  • Backpain
  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle spasms
  • Full or partial paralysis
  • Severe headache
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Low blood pressure and decreased heart rate
  • Loss of bowel or bladder function

Symptoms can develop gradually as swelling or bleeding put pressure on the spinal cord and seeking immediate medical attention can significantly impact the victim’s long-term prognosis.

Why You Need a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

 Spinal cord injury cases are some of the most complicated, and with so much at stake, it is important to trust a lawyer with proven experience in such cases. The right attorney will work alongside a team of medical experts to decipher the complexities of the case at hand and unrelentingly fight for the rights of the client.

What to Ask A Prospective Spinal Cord Injury Attorney 

  • How long have you practiced personal injury law?
  • How many SCI cases have you taken to trial?
  • What results have you obtained in representing SCI victims?
  • Do you know how insurance companies investigate after a spinal cord injury?
  • Do you have the financial resources to go up against large insurance companies?
  • Are you the attorney who will be working on my case through trial if necessary?

Matthews Injury Law Attorneys Are Experienced in Spinal Cord Injury Cases in Florida

 In cases involving a spinal cord injury, we are prepared to prove the cause and severity of the injury. The personal injury attorneys at Matthews Injury Law have taken cases to trial involving spinal cord injuries, and we are ready to fight for the justice you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered from a spinal cord injury, set up a free consultation with our attorneys today.

*Attorney Marc Matthews, a managing partner at Matthews Injury Law, either wrote or reviewed this page content to ensure it’s quality and accuracy.