Spinal Cord Injuries

New Hampshire and Massachusetts Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

New Hampshire and Massachusetts Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Spinal cord injury is an umbrella term, and it covers any injury that can affect the spine and damage the spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries can cause permanent changes in strength, sensation, and many other body functions below the site of the spinal cord injury.

If you’ve recently suffered an injury to your spinal cord, you may be faced with a lot of change, and your injury may span to affect you mentally and emotionally, as well as socially. If you suffered this injury to your spinal cord due to the actions of another person, you deserve to consult with an experienced spinal cord injury attorney. You may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries and other expenses such as:

  • Emotional Distress
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Medical Bills
  • Loss of Income
  • Loss of Self-Employed Wages
  • Loss of Consortium
  • Other Circumstance Specific Expenses

At Buckley Law Offices we have over thirty years of experience fighting for the rights of spinal cord injury victims and their families to receive compensation from liable parties. The legal team here understands the extreme impact spinal cord injuries can have on a life and the lives of those around the victim. Let us help you by reviewing your case during a free, no-risk consultation at your earliest convenience. Contact Buckley Law Offices today.

Classification of Spinal Cord Injuries

  1. Motor and sensory function scores are found to be normal.
  2. There is sensory and motor function preserved below neurological levels; in this category, doctors find that at least fifty percent of muscles below the neurological level are equal to or above muscle grade three.
  3. There is sensory and motor function preserved below neurological level; in this category, doctors find that at least fifty percent of muscles below the neurological level are below muscle grade three.
  4. In this category there is sensory function, but a lack of motor function. Generally motor function is not preserved below the neurological level, including the sacral segments.
  5. In this most severe category, no sensory function or motor function is preserved in the sacral segments of the spine.

When injuries are categorized as “complete” they are generally thought to be permanent in nature. However, when injuries are referenced as being “incomplete” they are thought to be still developing, temporary, or potentially permanent. Occasionally spinal cord injuries can be mild, not affecting much mobility or sensory perception at all. The severity of the injury will determine the type of medical care you require and the extent to which it is required.

At Buckley Law Offices we believe in holding liable parties responsible. Maybe your spinal cord injury was caused by a car or motorcycle accident, was the result of malpractice or negligence, or happened after an assault or interaction. Whatever the cause, contact Buckley Law Offices to schedule your free consultation because you may be eligible for financial compensation from the liable party or parties

spinal cord injury attorney massachusetts

What Should I Do After Sustaining a Spinal Cord Injury in New Hampshire or Massachusetts?

Spinal cord injuries come in all shapes and sizes, but they are always difficult, and almost always devastating. They can result from a large array of accidents, such as car, motorcycle, boat, bus, and truck accidents. They can also happen after misdiagnosis, negligence, and malpractice. Slip and fall accidents, and high-impact sports accidents are also common causes of spinal cord injuries in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. They can happen at birth as a result of a birth injury, or in a nursing home due to nursing home negligence.

But wherever and whenever they occur, there are some actions you can take in response:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention and Call The Police if Necessary
  • t is common to be unaware of the extent of your injuries directly after they occur. It is important to let a doctor decide whether or not you are okay after you suspect a spinal cord injury. Having a medical record of your injury will also help Buckley Law Offices pursue legal action on your behalf if during our free consultation we find your spinal injury to be actionable.

  • Gather Information
  • Gather as much information as possible. Record details such as the location the spinal injury occurred and the names and contact information of anyone who was involved in your injury. Document any conditions you have that may have contributed to the accident.

  • Speak to Witnesses
  • At Buckley Law Offices we are repeatedly unsurprised by and deeply grateful for the number of good samaritans that regularly come forward to help our clients. If someone saw your spinal cord injury occur, or witnessed events that led to your injury, you should speak with them immediately. Get their full name, address, and phone number if you can. Witness testimony is invaluable.

  • Take Photographs
  • If something such as a faulty stair step or other visible negligence led to your injury, photograph it and keep the photographs somewhere safe. Photographic evidence is extremely useful.

  • Contact Buckley Law Offices
  • Spinal cord injury lawsuits are too nuanced to trust with lawyers who do not know their way around a New Hampshire spinal injury. At Buckley Law Offices we focus on developing specialized knowledge around spinal cord injuries to protect the rights of New Hampshire residents and help spinal cord injury victims build strong legal cases to obtain maximum potential compensation.

Don’t Settle for a Personal Injury Generalist

If you’ve just suffered a spinal cord injury, don’t settle for a personal injury lawyer who doesn’t specialize in spinal cord injuries. You should take immediate action to find an experienced law firm with a strong reputation for recovering maximum compensation from liable parties. Buckley Law Offices will fight to recover compensation for:

  • Emotional Distress
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Medical Bills
  • Loss of Income
  • Loss of Self-Employed Wages
  • Loss of Consortium
  • Other Circumstance Specific Expenses

After a spinal cord injury, the best thing you can do for yourself is to find an experienced attorney who can help you through this difficult time by fighting for your rights while you fight to recover. Contact us to schedule a free, no-risk consultation at your earliest convenience.

motor vehicle - rear end - back, shoulder settlement

Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer New Hampshire: Understanding the Legal and Medical Complexities of Spinal Cord Injury Claims

Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious and life-changing injuries a person can suffer. They often result in permanent disabilities, significant lifestyle changes, and ongoing medical expenses. If you or a loved one has sustained a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to work with a lawyer who has both the legal expertise and a deep understanding of the medical implications of spinal injuries. As a spinal cord injury lawyer in New Hampshire, I’m committed to helping victims and their families secure the compensation they need to move forward.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries and Their Impact

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) occur when there is damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function, such as mobility or sensation. The severity of these injuries depends on the location of the injury on the spine and whether the injury is complete or incomplete:

  • Complete Injury: Results in a total loss of function below the level of the injury.
  • Incomplete Injury: Involves partial loss of function and sensation.

Common Types of Spinal Cord Injuries:

  • Paraplegia: Paralysis that affects the lower half of the body, including both legs.
  • Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia): Paralysis that affects all four limbs and the torso, typically resulting from damage to the cervical (neck) region of the spinal cord.
  • Herniated or Bulging Discs: Damage to the discs between the vertebrae can cause compression on the spinal cord, leading to pain, numbness, and limited mobility.
  • Fractured Vertebrae: A break or dislocation of the vertebrae can cause severe damage to the spinal cord.
  • Spinal Cord Contusion: Bruising of the spinal cord tissue, which can lead to temporary or permanent disability.

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can result from a variety of accidents and incidents, many of which are preventable. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents: Car, motorcycle, and truck accidents are leading causes of spinal cord injuries. Even low-speed collisions can cause severe spinal trauma.
  • Slip and Fall Accidents: Falls are a significant cause of spinal cord injuries, particularly among older adults and individuals working in hazardous environments.
  • Sports Injuries: High-impact sports like football, rugby, or gymnastics can result in traumatic spinal injuries.
  • Acts of Violence: Assaults, gunshot wounds, and other violent acts can cause severe damage to the spinal cord.
  • Medical Malpractice: Surgical errors or misdiagnoses can lead to spinal cord injuries, especially if the spinal cord is accidentally severed or compressed during a procedure.

Why You Need a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in New Hampshire

Spinal cord injury claims are among the most complex personal injury cases. Proving negligence and demonstrating the full extent of damages can be challenging due to the severity of these injuries and their long-term impact. An experienced New Hampshire spinal cord injury lawyer can help in the following ways:

  • Understanding the Medical Complexities:
    Knowledge of spinal cord injuries and their long-term effects is crucial. Your attorney must understand how to interpret medical records, communicate effectively with medical experts, and explain the injury’s impact on your life to a judge or jury.
  • Calculating Comprehensive Damages:
    Spinal cord injuries often result in significant medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, and the need for ongoing care. An experienced attorney will consider both the current and future costs associated with the injury to pursue maximum compensation.
  • Handling Insurance Companies:
    Insurance companies may try to minimize the severity of your injury or attribute it to a pre-existing condition. Your attorney will handle all communications with insurers, ensuring that they recognize the full extent of your damages.
  • Navigating New Hampshire’s Legal System:
    A local attorney familiar with New Hampshire’s laws, courts, and legal procedures can streamline your case and help you navigate any legal hurdles.

Types of Compensation Available for Spinal Cord Injury Victims

Victims of spinal cord injuries in New Hampshire may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help cover their losses and support their recovery. These may include:

  • Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, present, and future medical expenses related to the injury. This includes surgeries, hospital stays, medications, rehabilitation, assistive devices, and home modifications.
  • Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to the inability to work while recovering from the injury, as well as compensation for diminished earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous line of work.
  • Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional suffering caused by the injury.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities or hobbies that the victim once enjoyed.
  • Long-Term Care and Assistance: Coverage for costs associated with long-term care, home health aides, and ongoing medical support.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Understanding the Legal Process for Spinal Cord Injury Claims in New Hampshire

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, understanding the legal process can help you make informed decisions:

  1. Consultation and Case Evaluation: Most spinal cord injury attorneys offer free consultations to review your case. During this meeting, the attorney will assess the details of your injury, the circumstances of the accident, and the potential for a successful claim.
  2. Investigation and Gathering Evidence: Your attorney will gather evidence to establish liability, including accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimony.
  3. Filing the Claim: Once liability is established, your attorney will file a claim against the responsible parties, outlining the damages you are seeking.
  4. Negotiating a Settlement: Most cases are settled out of court. Your attorney will negotiate with the defendant’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If the insurance company does not offer a reasonable amount, your lawyer will prepare to take the case to trial.
  5. Litigation and Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to trial. Your attorney will present evidence, call witnesses, and argue your case before a judge or jury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
About Spinal Cord Injury Claims in New Hampshire

How long do I have to file a spinal cord injury claim in New Hampshire?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New Hampshire is generally three years from the date of the injury. However, it’s best to consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines.

What is the value of a spinal cord injury claim?

The value of a claim depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, the impact on the victim’s life, and the costs of medical treatment and long-term care. An attorney can help calculate a fair amount of compensation.

What if I am partially at fault for the accident?

Under New Hampshire’s comparative fault rule, you can still recover damages if you are partially at fault, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Can I file a claim on behalf of a family member who has suffered a spinal cord injury?

Yes, you can file a claim on behalf of a family member if they are unable to do so themselves due to their injury. This is particularly important in cases involving paralysis or severe cognitive impairment.

How long does it take to resolve a spinal cord injury case?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, the willingness of the parties to settle, and the court’s schedule. It can take several months to a few years to reach a resolution.

Contact a Compassionate New Hampshire Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, it’s essential to seek legal help as soon as possible. As a dedicated New Hampshire spinal cord injury lawyer, I’m committed to helping victims and their families pursue justice and compensation. Contact me, Dave Buckley, today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

We take pride in our success

avvo rating avvo rating

From our 250+
google Reviews

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse
previous next

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse

Attorney Buckley was great. He has excellent experience. He's very knowledgeable on the topics discussed. Gave sound advice. I'll use him again......Read more

testimony image Jesse
previous next