Sustaining a spine injury can be a life-altering experience that impacts you physically, emotionally, and financially. Spine injuries occur for various reasons, including car accidents, slips, and falls. If you or a loved one has a spine injury due to someone else’s negligence, a Virginia spine injury lawyer can help you pursue the compensation you are entitled to.
What to Know About Virginia Spine Injury Cases
Spine injuries can range from minor to severe, and it is essential to understand the various types of spine injuries that can occur. Thirty-three vertebrae comprise the spin; an injury to any of them can cause significant pain and discomfort. Some of the most common spine injuries that can occur include:
- Herniated Disc: A herniated disc occurs when the cushion between two vertebrae ruptures and the inner disc material spills out, causing pain and nerve damage.
- Fractured Vertebrae: A car accident, slip, fall, or work-related incident can fracture your vertebrae. This injury can be excruciating and may require surgery.
- Spinal Cord Injury: A spinal cord injury can occur due to a traumatic event, such as a car accident, and can cause permanent damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
If you have sustained a spine injury, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can diagnose the extent of your injuries and develop a treatment plan to help you recover as quickly as possible.
Legal Considerations
Understanding the legal considerations involved in a spine injury case in Virginia is essential. Below are the legalities to consider.
- Statute of Limitations: In Virginia, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. This condition means that, under most circumstances, you must file a lawsuit within two years of the accident.
- Contributory Negligence: Virginia is one of only four states following the contributory negligence doctrine. Under this doctrine, you are barred from recovery if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident that caused your spine injury.
- Damages: If you are successful in your spine injury case, you may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
- Insurance: It is essential to understand what insurance coverage might be available to compensate you for the damages you sustained in your spine injury case. This coverage may include the at-fault party’s insurance policy and your insurance policy.
- Evidence: Gathering and preserving as much evidence as possible is crucial to building a solid spine injury case. This evidence includes photographs, witness statements, recordings, medical records, and police reports, among other things.
Your Rights
Navigating the legal system can be challenging, and working with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process is essential.
An Virginia spine injury lawyer can help you gather the evidence needed to build a strong case, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary. They can also help you understand the value of your case and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Contact Burnett & Williams for Help
Contact the experienced personal injury attorneys at Burnett & Williams for help. We understand how devastating a spine injury can be, and we are committed to helping you recover the compensation.