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Legal Support for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in Eldridge / West Oaks
A spinal cord injury is one of the most devastating events a person can experience. Beyond the physical pain, these injuries often lead to permanent lifestyle changes, significant medical expenses, and emotional distress for the entire family. If you or a loved one has been affected, seeking guidance from an experienced Houston Spinal Cord Injury Attorney is a critical step in protecting your future. At Nguyen & Associates, we serve the Eldridge / West Oaks community with compassionate and aggressive legal representation.
The Eldridge / West Oaks area is a vibrant part of West Houston, but with heavy traffic along Highway 6 and the Westpark Tollway, accidents are unfortunately common. Whether your injury occurred in a motor vehicle collision, a workplace incident, or a slip and fall, our team is dedicated to helping you secure the resources needed for long-term care and recovery.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often result from high-impact trauma. In the Eldridge / West Oaks area, we frequently see these injuries arise from:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: High-speed collisions on I-10 or busy intersections like Eldridge Parkway and Westheimer Road.
- Falls: Slip and fall accidents at commercial properties or construction sites.
- Workplace Injuries: Accidents in industrial zones or during heavy labor.
- Acts of Violence: Traumatic injuries resulting from physical assaults.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
The severity of an injury often depends on the location of the trauma on the spine. We assist clients dealing with:
- Paraplegia: Affecting the lower half of the body.
- Quadriplegia/Tetraplegia: Affecting all four limbs and the torso.
- Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries: Where some sensory or motor function remains.
- Herniated Discs and Nerve Damage: Which can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.
What to Do After a Spinal Cord Injury
The steps you take immediately following an accident can significantly impact both your health and your potential legal claim.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Spinal injuries require specialized care. Do not delay treatment.
- Report the Incident: Ensure there is an official police report or workplace incident report.
- Document Everything: Keep records of medical bills, witness contact information, and photos of the accident scene.
- Avoid Direct Statements to Insurance Adjusters: Insurance companies may try to settle quickly for less than you deserve.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact a legal professional before signing any documents or accepting a settlement.
Understanding Liability and Fault in Texas
To recover compensation, we must demonstrate that another party’s negligence caused your injury. In Houston, this involves proving that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused your spinal cord damage. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. Our team works to gather evidence, such as surveillance footage and expert testimony, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Potential Damages You May Recover
While every case is unique, victims of spinal cord injuries may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital stays, surgeries, and ongoing physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work and loss of future earning capacity.
- Home Modifications: Costs for ramps, widened doorways, or specialized medical equipment.
- Pain and Suffering: For the physical and emotional toll the injury has taken on your life.
- Loss of Consortium: For the impact the injury has on your relationship with your spouse.
The Legal Process and Timeline
Navigating a legal claim for a spinal cord injury is a marathon, not a sprint. The process generally follows these stages:
- Initial Investigation: We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review medical records.
- Demand and Negotiation: We present a demand package to the insurance company and attempt to reach a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we file a formal complaint in court.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and take depositions.
- Trial: If the case does not settle, we present your case before a judge or jury.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to hire a spinal cord injury lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and we only receive a fee if we successfully recover compensation for you.
How long do I have to file a claim in Houston?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. It is vital to act quickly to preserve evidence.
What if my injury happened at work in Eldridge / West Oaks?
Workplace spinal injuries can involve workers’ compensation or third-party liability claims. We can help you determine the best path forward based on your employer’s coverage.
Contact an Eldridge / West Oaks Spinal Cord Injury Attorney Today
You do not have to face the aftermath of a spinal cord injury alone. Our legal team is committed to providing the residents of Eldridge / West Oaks and the greater Houston area with the high-quality legal representation they deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your case and help you understand your options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free case evaluation.