A spinal cord injury is any injury that damages the spinal cord, the complex bundle of nerves that runs through the spinal bones or vertebrae. The spinal cord may be damaged when the vertebrae are broken or dislocated, causing them to cut or push against the spinal cord. In severe cases, the spinal cord may be severed completely.
Approximately 12,000 people suffer a non-fatal spinal cord injury in the U.S. each year, according to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center. About 262,000 people in the U.S. live with a spinal cord injury.
Currently, the average age of a spinal cord injury patient is 40.7 years. Men are more likely than women to suffer a spinal cord injury; each year, about 80% of new spinal cord injuries happen to men. However, any serious trauma or injury to the body may result in a spinal cord injury, especially if the trauma results in a broken back or head injury.
In California, the most common way to suffer a spinal cord injury is in a California car accident. About 41% of new injuries happen in vehicle crashes. Falling causes about 27% of spinal cord injuries, and violent treatment by another person causes about 15% of new injuries each year.
A spinal cord injury can be a life-altering event. Even mild spinal cord injuries may result in some loss of sensation or control in various areas of the body. Although early treatment can reduce the long-term effects of an injury, most spinal cord injury patients find their lives permanently changed in some way.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury and you believe someone else’s negligent actions were responsible, please contact experienced San Diego spinal cord injury attorney Steven A. Elia to discuss your legal rights and options. Call 619-444-2244 today for a free consultation.
