Motor vehicle collisions are among the most devastating events a person can experience. Beyond the immediate physical harm, these high-impact incidents often result in life-changing spinal cord damage, leading to quadriplegia or paraplegia.
For many individuals in Georgia, a routine drive can turn into a lifelong struggle with paralysis, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Understanding how these injuries occur and the available legal options can help those affected seek justice and financial recovery. Here, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys at Ashby Thelen Lowry explain.
Understanding Quadriplegia and Paraplegia
Spinal cord injuries vary in severity, but when damage is significant, the effects can be permanent.
- Quadriplegia occurs when paralysis affects all four limbs and the torso. This typically results from damage to the cervical spine, often leading to loss of sensation and motor function below the neck.
- Paraplegia impacts the lower half of the body, affecting mobility and sensation in the legs and lower torso. This condition generally stems from injuries to the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions of the spine.
Both forms of paralysis require significant medical intervention, including surgeries, physical therapy, assistive devices, and home modifications. The emotional and financial toll can be overwhelming, making legal action essential to securing necessary resources.
How High-Impact Collisions Lead to Spinal Cord Damage
When vehicles collide at high speeds or with extreme force, the human body absorbs tremendous energy.
Some of the most common causes of spinal cord trauma in these situations include:
- Rollovers – When a vehicle flips, occupants can be thrown against hard surfaces, increasing the risk of neck and back injuries.
- T-Bone Impacts – The side of a vehicle offers less protection than the front or rear, often leading to direct spinal trauma upon impact.
- Rear-End Collisions – Even at lower speeds, the sudden force exerted on the body can cause severe whiplash or spinal compression.
- Head-on crashes are among the most dangerous collisions, often resulting in catastrophic injuries due to the extreme forces involved.
The sudden and violent nature of these crashes makes spinal cord injuries one of the most severe outcomes, often leaving victims permanently disabled.
Legal Options for Spinal Cord Injury Victims
For those facing quadriplegia or paraplegia due to a vehicle collision, pursuing a legal claim can help secure financial relief for:
- Medical Expenses – Including emergency treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
- Home and Vehicle Modifications – Many individuals require wheelchair-accessible housing and transportation.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings – Paralysis often prevents victims from returning to work or advancing in their careers.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensation may be available for emotional distress, loss of independence, and reduced quality of life.
At Ashby Thelen Lowry, we understand the devastating impact of spinal cord injuries and are committed to fighting for those affected. If you or a loved one has suffered paralysis due to a car crash in Georgia, contact us today for a free consultation. We may be able to help you secure the compensation needed for long-term care and financial stability.