Tacoma Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Name: Spinal Cord Injuries
Brand: Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers
Rating: 4.9 (199 reviews)

If you injured your spinal cord in an accident someone else caused, contact Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers immediately to determine your legal options.

Legal Help for Spinal Cord Injuries

A bundle of nerves and cells make up the spinal cord. They are responsible for sending signals between the brain and other areas of the body. Damage to any part of the spinal cord can have debilitating effects. An injury can lead to mobility, movement, and sensation issues. In severe cases, permanent damage can cause paralysis. Park Chenaur and Associates knows the challenges of treating a spinal cord injury. It can disrupt your daily routine and create financial burdens. We can help you pursue legal action against the negligent party responsible for the accident. Call us 24/7 for a free consultation with a Tacoma spinal cord injury lawyer to get started. A spinal cord injury creates various challenges. Holding the at-fault party accountable for their actions and securing the compensation you need to cover your losses can seem like an uphill battle. Accident victims often feel overwhelmed by the responsibility. That's where Park Chenaur and Associates can step in to relieve your burden.

man in wheelchair looking out glass slide door

Why Choose Park Chenaur and Associates?

At Park Chenaur and Associates, our legal team has fought for the rights of accident victims since 1999. We have built a stellar reputation in Tacoma as lawyers our clients can trust. We provide personalized service and attention to every person who hires us. We treat our clients with compassion and empathy, so they feel secure and supported. Our Tacoma office is conveniently located less than two miles from State Route 16, just South of the University of Puget Sound. Our 24/7 availability means a live person will always make time to speak with you. It is important to us that you feel prioritized and cared for while we work on your case. Park Chenaur and Associates holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and five-star reviews on Google and Facebook. Call us to learn more about us and how we can help.

Spinal Cord Injuries in Tacoma

According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, there are around 17,810 new spinal cord injury cases annually. That's equivalent to approximately 54 cases per one million people nationwide. The leading cause of spinal cord injury is vehicle crashes, followed by falls. An estimated 294,000 people in the United States live with a spinal cord injury. You can sue the person or company liable for the accident that caused your injury. However, you must follow a strict time frame to pursue compensation in court. In Washington, the statute of limitations allows a three-year timeframe to file a lawsuit. That means you must initiate your lawsuit against the negligent party within three years of the accident date.

Some spinal cord injuries result from a healthcare professional's error. When that happens, filing a medical malpractice lawsuit might be possible. The statute of limitations for medical malpractice differs slightly from the personal injury statute. You must file suit within three years of the negligent act or within one year of the date you discover or should reasonably discover that the doctor's negligence caused your injury, whichever time frame ends later. However, you can only file a lawsuit up to eight years after the negligent act. You might pause the statute of limitations if you prove that there was:

Intentional concealment
Fraud
A foreign body not intended to have a diagnostic or therapeutic effect or purpose left behind

That means if the healthcare professional's conduct involves any of these factors, the one-year timeframe for filing a lawsuit doesn't begin until the date you know about the foreign body, intentional concealment, or fraud.

Common Types and Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Layers of tissue, the meninges, and a vertebral column surround the spinal cord, protecting it from trauma. A traumatic or sudden blow to the spinal cord can lead to an injury. The damage might cause changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions below the injury site. Multiple types, levels, and severities identify a spinal cord injury. The vertebra the injury affects determines the spinal cord injury level:

Cervical. The cervical vertebrae, C1 through C7, are in the neck.
Thoracic. Twelve thoracic vertebrae make up the upper part of the back from T1 to T12.
Lumbar. The L1 through L5 lumbar vertebrae make up the lower part of the back.
Sacral. Five vertebrae below all other spinal cord levels form the sacrum.
Coccyx. The coccyx is below the sacrum and consists of four vertebrae.

The area of the body affected by the injury determines the type of spinal cord injury:

Paraplegia. Paraplegia occurs when an injury prevents movement and feeling in the lower half of the body. The damage can occur anywhere between T2 and S5. The injury can affect the stomach, hips, legs, feet, and chest.
Tetraplegia. Tetraplegia is a spinal cord injury between C1 and T1. It affects the body from the neck down, causing the inability to control or move the muscles in the hands, shoulders, neck, arms, legs, and head. It can also affect the pelvic organs.

Spinal cord injuries include:

Incomplete injury. An incomplete spinal cord injury causes some loss of sensation and motor function below the injured part of the spinal cord.
Complete injury. A complete spinal cord injury causes a total loss of motor function and sensation below the injury site.

Injuries closer to the sacrum compromise sensation and movement in the lower half of the body and some internal organs. The closer the spinal cord injury is to the skull, the more challenging it is for the body to move and feel. The spinal cord injury symptoms depend on the type of injury and affected part of the spinal cord. The most common symptoms include:

Severe pressure or pain in the neck or back
Weakness in the legs or arms

Trouble breathing
Loss of bowel or bladder control

Unusual lumps along the spine
Decreased sensation in the legs or arms

An external factor typically causes neck or back trauma, injuring the spinal cord. Prompt medical attention is necessary to determine the injury's type and severity. Regaining muscle control and movement might be possible with adequate treatment. However, permanent damage can cause irreversible paralysis. The most common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

Truck and bus accidents
Nursing home abuse
Slip and falls
Workplace accidents
Car accidents
Medical malpractice
Bicycle and motorcycle accidents

Schedule a Free Consultation

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Spinal Cord Injury Compensation

The type of accident that causes your spinal cord injury will determine which party or parties you can hold liable for your medical bills and other expenses. For example, a driver whose vehicle strikes you at a crosswalk is likely at fault for your resulting injury. You can file a claim with their auto insurance company to seek a settlement. A property owner can be liable for not maintaining the premises if you fall on a wet floor or defective staircase. Whether you file a claim or lawsuit against the negligent party, the money you receive might compensate you for your:

Mental anguish
Lost earnings
Loss of earning capacity
Ambulance services, hospital stays, rehab, and other medical expenses
Pain and suffering
Disability or disfigurement
Property damage

It can be challenging to determine the value of a spinal cord injury case. It requires a thorough examination of all financial losses and the potential long-term effects of the injury. Your attorney has experience in placing a monetary value on non-economic losses like mental anguish and in calculating the total value of your case. Multiple factors can contribute to calculating the value of your case:

Total expenses related to the accident
Whether the injury leads to permanent impairment or disability
Amount of coverage available from the at-fault party's insurance carrier

Type and severity of the injury
Emotional or psychological effects of the incident
Amount of relevant evidence proving who is liable for the injury

Duration of the recovery period
The estimated cost of treatment required in the future
Disruptions to your daily routine, such as an inability to complete basic tasks, return to work, or care for family

Although pursuing action for a spinal cord injury seems overwhelming, you don't have to go through it alone. A Tacoma spinal cord injury lawyer from Park Chenaur and Associates can help.
We will simplify the process by taking over your entire case. You won't have to worry about gathering evidence, talking to the insurance company, or negotiating a settlement. Our legal team will handle everything so you can focus on treating your injury.

Fighting the Insurance Company

A spinal cord injury creates various challenges. Holding the at-fault party accountable for their actions and securing the compensation you need to cover your losses can seem like an uphill battle. Accident victims often feel overwhelmed by the responsibility. That's where Park Chenaur and Associates can step in to relieve your burden.

You might not realize the insurance company's hidden agenda, but its goal is to avoid paying your claim. They want to save money by reducing the value of your case and making a lowball offer. You should not face the insurance company alone. We know how to maximize the value of a claim and aggressively negotiate for a full and fair settlement.

If the insurance adjuster contacts you to discuss the accident and your injury, inform them that you hired a lawyer and give them our number. You don't have to speak with them about any aspect of the claim. We can handle the discussions so you don't risk saying something the adjuster can use against you.

Steps To Take After a Spinal Cord Injury

You're off to an excellent start if you already went to the hospital after the accident. If you haven't sought treatment for your spinal cord injury, go to your doctor now. Contact Park Chenaur and Associates immediately so we can start working on your case. We will investigate to determine liability and begin obtaining evidence to build a case against the negligent party. Your initial doctor might recommend follow-up care, such as imaging tests, physical therapy, and other treatments. You must follow their recommendations and attend every necessary doctor's appointment. Deviating from the treatment plan, missing scheduled appointments, or stopping your treatment too soon can ruin your chance of recovery and negatively affect your case. Evidence is crucial to prove the injury you sustained in the accident. You must keep copies of your medical records, bills, and other documentation while your case is pending. Forward everything to us so we can determine whether we can use it as evidence. Keeping a pain journal to document your symptoms and their effects on your daily life is also helpful. Don't worry if you cannot maintain records. You might be in too much pain or confined to a hospital bed.

Park Chenaur and Associates has the resources to acquire the available evidence. We can speak to witnesses, secure security camera footage, and request copies of your medical records from your doctors. You should think twice before posting to your social media accounts during your ongoing case. Sharing a photo or updating your family and friends on your recovery progress might seem harmless. However, it can affect the amount of compensation you receive. Defense attorneys and insurance companies often review public social media platforms for evidence that benefits them. They want to find proof that your injury isn't as serious as you claim or that the accident is your fault. They might misinterpret a photo as evidence that you're not prioritizing your recovery or that you lied about the long-term effects of your injury. Avoiding social media is the safest option. That includes electronic communication. If the defense attorney questions their liability or whether your injury is due to a preexisting condition, your emails and other digital conversations might help prove their case.

Contact an Experienced Tacoma Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

A spinal cord injury can have long-lasting consequences. You might feel constant pain, you cannot function, and have expensive medical bills you can't afford. Although pursuing legal action seems like a complicated undertaking, it can hold the negligent party accountable for the harm they caused and provide you with the funds you need to regain your independence.
Park Chenaur Injury Lawyers can protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us online for a free consultation if you sustained a spinal cord injury due to someone else's negligence. Reach out to a Tacoma personal injury lawyer.

Client Reviews

Highly recommend! I was in a car accident in November of 2023 and my insurance didn’t do much to help me so I contacted Park Chenaur Law to see if I can get someone that will help me out. Paty and Natalya were working on my case and were very helpful and communicative throughout the whole case. Thank you guys again for ...

Bri

I was in a car accident and tried to deal with the other insurance company on my own. The person I was dealing with was very aggressive and not easy to work with. She offered me a settlement that was very low and didn't include much for my medical expenses. I reached out to a law firm and was lucky to be connected with Nataly...

Max Terterov

Lola is a great person/paralegal to work with. She helped me with my case few years back and she did a fantastic job. I recommended my husband to Park Chenaur because of the great service I got from this firm.

Suze

Not only did the team (multiple people- very hands on!) get me the maximum insurance settlement for a car accident I was in, but they went above and beyond to stay engaged and work for me. They helped me find effective, compassionate chiro care, and were helpful in discussing case details along the way. I highly recommend Pau...

Arianna S.

I use this firm for the first time on 2012 and over the years I had an excellent experience but, I have to say is thanks to Lola. She goes above and beyond, twice I had cases that they couldn't help me with, but she always takes her time to talk (at least an hour), she listen and finally always comes with something to help, i...

James G.

Kimberly was so reliable, honest and helped me with integrity. I recommend to contact her to anyone who is looking for great help when you go through unexpected car accident. I was really frustrated when the accident was happened. Kimberly always took the time to answer any questions I might have, went throu...

Hye C.

This is my second time coming back to Park & Chenaur. I came back because Lola was an amazing Team member And unfortunately, she had gone to retirement. But reassured me that I would be Taken good care of and put in good hands with colleagues of Park & Chenaur Talia was one that I would communicate with more and I'm p...

B. Cruz

I’ve been incredibly pleased with the support and dedication from Komo Thiara and Marco Martinez as they work on my personal injury case. Even though my case is still ongoing, I’ve been impressed by their professionalism and commitment. Komo Thiara is attentive to every detail and has been proactive in keeping me ...

Jasmin T.

This is a great firm to work with. I’ve been working directly with Lola Serna and Mr. Kim. They’ve been working diligently on my case and keeping me up to speed each step along the way. Lola has been extremely communicative of the entire process. When I’ve mentioned to others that they are working on my case...

C. Rhzie

Lola and her team are incredible! Top notch law firm with a deep, rich knowledge of the system and how to best take care of their clients.

Preston D.

Gina Kim is a great attorney! She is very experienced and explained the process every step of the way. I was very pleased with the outcome of my case. I highly recommend her!!

Donna G.

After I had my auto collision, I reached out to Park Chenaur and Lola quickly reached out and immediately took my case. Since hiring the law firm, and working with Lola, I have been able to concentrate on my healing knowing that my claim is in good hands. Lola has been super responsive throughout this process which I apprecia...

Jacob L.

I have been so impressed with the level of care this group has provided in my auto accident case. Especially Lola, who on the first meeting made me feel at ease. She explained everything throughout the process and kept me informed every step of the way. The value of peice of mind is beyond anything I could have expected. I wo...

Trina P.

I got into a bad accident where I lost my car back in 2017, I was young, scared and anxious. I contacted Park Chenaur & Associates when I was offered $500 from the other driver’s car insurance…let’s just say that was a spit in the face compared to what I actually received thanks to their help. They took...

Chels

Park Chenaur Law Offices was great helping me navigate everything after a MVA in 2016. They were recommended to me several months after and I wish I had contacted them sooner!

They listened to my concerns, patiently explained next steps, figuratively held my hand through mediation, and helped calm me as I expressed my ...

인정

In the summer of 2022, I found myself in a stressful situation after a car accident. Despite it not being my fault, dealing with insurance was intimidating. A friend recommended Parks Chenaur & Associates LLP, and it turned out to be a lifesaver. They not only guided me through the insurance process but ...

Hyuna J.

I highly recommend Park Chenaur for assisting me with my case. I was involved in an accident and Lola made the process very easy for me and my family.

She was very understanding, she listened to all our concerns. I can't say thank you enough.

Kristy C.

I cannot thank Kimberly and her team enough. Between two accidents that were very complex, Kimberly and her team helped me get settlements for both. I couldn’t have gotten through this without her dedicated work. I highly recommend using Kimberly and her team - I will be recommending them to anyone I personally know. I ...

Morgan G.

Senior Manager Yoon and her team took care of my two traffic accident cases and achieved satisfying results. Highly recommend this legal group.

Minwoo L.

I would like to thank Park Chenaur Lawyers for helping my Son with his injury claim. Lola has been very helpful and supportive in this process. It’s good to know that my Son is being treated well and we appreciate all the help! The Hutchinson family.

Tamara H.

Kimberly Yoon helped me resolve my car accident. She helped me a lot during difficult times. She was very accurate in her work and always responded. I think she is the best.

Yunmi L.

Angel Chenaur & Rick Park are very good excellent lawyers because of unstoppable care and energy to win your case. They are a Team that are professional and asure a thorough understanding of the processes throughout the wait for the results of your claim. They've been my lawyers for my claims and &...

Linda C.

I appreciate the phone call back first of all. The case taken was two years old. Something was gotten out of it. Appreciated, but I will Never understand how 40 percent of $15,000 leaves me with $4,600 and No explanation good enough Can be given Even with the so called breakdown. Make it make sense. But still I appreciate eve...

Annaray H.

Paula Burger is wonderful! She is a person I go to when I know things will get done. Her communication skills are excellent and anyone who works with her can expect nothing but the best.

Annette T.

A Case Manager Gina Kim, she was always kind and considerate when my wife and I had a car accident. Usually people panic when they have a car accident. And there are many cases where we don't know how to handle it. After this traffic accident, my family has learned a lot about how important experienced lawyers and experienced...

Jay