Fort Worth Paralysis Lawyer

Paralysis injuries cause a loss of muscle function and, in some cases, of sensation in parts of the body below the point of trauma. It typically involves spinal cord injuries (SCI), but sometimes may involve the brain or central nervous system.

The consequences can be catastrophic, leaving you with partial or complete loss of function. You must hold them accountable if someone else’s carelessness caused you harm. Contact The Wilhite Law Firm to schedule a free consultation with a qualified Fort Worth paralysis lawyer to learn more.

What Are the Different Forms of Paralysis?

Paralysis can take several forms, each affecting the body differently depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury.

• Paraplegia is a form of paralysis affecting the lower body, both legs, and sometimes the trunk and pelvis, and often results from a damaged lumbar, thoracic, or sacral region of the spinal cord
• Quadriplegia, also called tetraplegia, affects all four limbs, the trunk, and often also the pelvic organs, and results from damage to the neck region, called the cervical
• Hemiplegia affects the limbs on one side of the body, while the individual retains full function on the other side
• Monoplegia is paralysis in one limb, which is often one arm, hand, or, for some, one side of the face

The injuries are either complete, resulting in total loss of motor and sensory function below the level of injury, or incomplete, with some functions remaining. The first occurs when the trauma causes the spinal cord to separate entirely, and the second remains intact, allowing partial signals to continue traveling through from the brain to that part of the body and back. Those with incomplete SPIs also have greater recovery potential.

Understanding these distinctions is important for evaluating the impact on daily life and planning treatment, which is why consulting a Fort Worth paralysis accident lawyer can be crucial after a severe spinal cord injury.

What Are the Symptoms of Paralysis?

Symptoms may vary for each person, depending on where the trauma occurs on the spinal cord. They may also be immediate or develop over time, and include loss of movement or sensation, weakness, and pain or pressure in the neck or back. Individuals may also have breathing difficulties, particularly those with high cervical injuries, loss of bladder or bowel control, sexual dysfunction, and uncontrolled muscle tightening, called spasticity.

Many also experience secondary symptoms, such as infections, blood clots, pressure sores, and dangerous spikes in blood pressure. There may also be numbness, tingling, inability to feel touch, pain, or changes in temperature.

The state organization, Texas Health and Human Services, provides many resources for residents after SCIs, including a guide for those just starting out, called First Steps. They also offer information and guidance for rehabilitation services. Our Fort Worth paralysis injury attorney is seasoned in handling cases and can answer questions about the process during your appointment.

Comparative Fault and Filing Deadline for Paralysis Injury Claims

Modified comparative fault, also called comparative negligence, is a rule that determines how each party shares fault if the court finds that the plaintiff or another party is responsible. Under the instructions of Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 33.001, as long as your portion of liability is less than half, or 50 percent, you can obtain monetary damages for the defendant’s share.

They subtract your percentage from the settlement amount. If they find you 51 percent or more liable, they bar recovery altogether. Another crucial thing to be aware of is the time limit. You must file the claim within two years of the accident in most cases. Our paralysis injury lawyer in Fort Worth can handle all legal work and filings to ensure compliance.

Meet With a Knowledgeable Paralysis Accident Attorney in Fort Worth

Paralysis injuries can affect nearly every area of your life, preventing you from working for a time, and sometimes permanently. The requirements for medical care may also be ongoing and expensive.

Therefore, when accidents happen because of the negligence of another party, you must hold them legally and financially accountable. Call The Wilhite Law Firm now to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Fort Worth paralysis lawyer.