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Compassionate Legal Support for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in Houston
A spinal cord injury is one of the most devastating events a person can experience. Whether it occurs during a commute near the Washington Avenue Coalition area or while enjoying the outdoors at Memorial Park, the impact on your health, career, and family is immediate. If you are facing this difficult journey, working with an experienced Houston Spinal Cord Injury Attorney can help you secure the resources necessary for long-term care and recovery.
Our firm understands the unique challenges residents of the Washington Avenue Coalition / Memorial Park neighborhood face after a catastrophic accident. We provide personalized legal guidance to help you hold negligent parties accountable and pursue the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in the Washington Avenue / Memorial Park Area
Spinal cord injuries often result from high-impact incidents or unexpected falls. In a bustling area like Houston, these accidents can happen anywhere. Common causes include:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents: Heavy traffic along I-10 and the busy intersections of Washington Avenue often lead to serious collisions.
- Pedestrian and Cycling Accidents: With the high volume of foot traffic and cyclists near Memorial Park, accidents involving vehicles can lead to permanent spinal damage.
- Slip and Falls: Poorly maintained property, whether at a local business or a private residence, can cause life-altering falls.
- Construction Site Accidents: As the Washington Avenue Coalition area continues to grow, construction-related incidents remain a significant risk for workers and passersby.
What to Do After Sustaining a Spinal Cord Injury
The steps you take immediately following an injury can significantly impact both your health and your potential legal claim. We recommend the following:
- Prioritize Medical Care: Spinal injuries require specialized, immediate treatment. Follow all doctor recommendations and keep records of your diagnoses.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident location, gather contact information from witnesses, and save any physical evidence.
- Report the Incident: File a police report for traffic accidents or an incident report for injuries occurring on commercial property.
- Avoid Direct Statements to Insurers: Insurance adjusters may contact you quickly. It is often best to let your attorney handle these communications to protect your interests.
- Consult a Lawyer: Contact a legal professional who specializes in catastrophic injuries to review your case.
Understanding Liability and Fault in Texas
To recover compensation in Texas, you must generally prove that another party’s negligence caused your injury. This involves demonstrating that the party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and directly caused your spinal cord injury as a result. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. Our team works diligently to gather evidence, such as surveillance footage and expert testimony, to build a strong case for liability.
Damages You May Recover
Spinal cord injuries often require a lifetime of medical attention and modifications to your daily life. While every case is unique, you may be eligible to recover compensation for several types of damages:
- Medical Expenses: Including emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing physical therapy.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for the time you were unable to work, as well as the loss of future earning capacity.
- Home and Vehicle Modifications: Costs for ramps, widened doorways, or specialized vehicles.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Addressing the impact the injury has on your ability to enjoy hobbies and daily activities.
The Legal Process: What to Expect
Navigating a legal claim can feel overwhelming, but we strive to make the process as transparent as possible. It typically involves:
- Initial Investigation: We gather all relevant evidence, including medical records and accident reports.
- Demand and Negotiation: We present a demand package to the insurance company and negotiate for a fair settlement.
- Filing a Lawsuit: If a fair agreement cannot be reached, we may file a formal lawsuit to protect your rights.
- Discovery and Trial: Both sides exchange information, and if necessary, the case proceeds to trial where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
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. Your initial consultation is always free.
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 important to act quickly to ensure evidence is preserved.
What if my injury happened at work?
If your spinal cord injury occurred on a job site in the Washington Avenue Coalition area, you may have a workers’ compensation claim or a third-party personal injury claim, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
Contact a Washington Avenue Coalition / Memorial Park Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one is struggling with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury, do not face the legal system alone. Our team is dedicated to providing the support and advocacy you need during this challenging time. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and explore your options.
Call us today at (713) 747-7777 or visit our contact page to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to help you move forward.