In the middle of the 20th century, individuals suffering from a severe spinal injury were not expected to survive for long periods. This was especially true of a spinal injury that resulted in a quadriplegic paralysis, where there is a loss of movement and sensation in both the arms and legs. However, ongoing advances in medical technology mean that the survival rates of individuals with spinal injury have dramatically increased, with more individuals surviving exceptionally serious injuries. A serious paralysis can involve not only a loss of the use of arms and legs but also a loss of head movement and the power of speech. Fortunately, cutting edge technologies are now available that permit a large degree of independent living for even the most seriously injured accident victims.
So what has changed in recent years to make independent living possible for an individual with the most severe forms of spinal injury?
Patients with severe spinal injury can now speak through the use of a voice synthesiser; simple eye movements can be used for computer control of doors, windows, lights, heating and other household appliances. All in all, these technological developments mean that individuals with a spinal injury can lead an increasingly full and rewarding life.
As a consequence, when the legal team pursues a compensation claim from insurers on a family's behalf, it is essential that they are able to seek appropriate expert advice so that they can properly assess the full value of the potential claim. The compensation award must be sufficient to cover the lifetime costs of care, equipment as well as provision of a living space suitable for a spinal injury victim.
However, where does a family start in securing all the cutting edge technologies and services needed to provide care for a loved one with a spinal injury? The answer is surprising; the solicitor and legal firm should be able to provide all the help a family will need.
Therefore, it is vital that any insurance claim for spinal injury is conducted by expert solicitors with a great deal of experience of conducting severe injury compensation cases. Only legal firms that have successfully conducted such compensation cases will have a thorough grasp of the costs that will have to be met over the lifetime of a spinal injury victim.
The time taken for a settlement of a spinal injury claim can be as long as five years, and while the case is being heard there will still be requirements for specialist equipment and care, as well as adaptations to homes and vehicles. To help with immediate funding requirements, interim awards for spinal injury can be sought from insurers to help the family.
In summary, it is essential that the law firm chosen can provide both legal services and a care support package for a victim of an accidental spinal injury and their family. Taking steps to ensure that the right legal practice is chosen will be a wise investment of the family's time.
About the Author
Serious injury lawyers with unrivalled expertise. Specialist services for spinal injury, brain injury, head and amputation clients from the UK's leading specialised injury law practice. ng@seriouslaw.co.uk http://www.seriousinjurylaw.co.uk/ 0800 61 66 81See Also:
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