It is important to understand that not all types of paralysis are the same. Depending on what part of the body was harmed, the severity and the location of the paralysis could vary drastically. The different types of paralysis injuries in Western PA accidents play a major role in calculating the potential recoverable damages. Our hardworking Western PA paralyzing injuries attorneys could review your case and help you put together a well-rounded claim that effectively compensates you for the full extent of your losses.
Paralysis injuries are categorized based on the amount of the body that is paralyzed or impaired. Quadriplegia refers to paralysis of all four limbs, while paraplegia is the paralysis of just the lower extremities. While there are other types of paralysis, these two are more commonly the result of accidents caused by someone’s negligence.
Paraplegia is the paralysis of the lower extremities. More specifically, it refers to the impairment of the areas of the body served by the thoracic and lumbar spine, or lower back. When this area of the spine is damaged, a person can suffer loss of sensations, function, or mobility in those parts of the body.
People who suffer from paraplegia often require medical aids, such as a wheelchair, in order to regain some mobility and independence. They often also require modifications to their vehicles and homes to adjust to their new circumstances.
Quadriplegia is the paralysis of all four limbs: both arms and both legs. This often is the result of damage to the spinal cord closer to the neck, impairing everything below the injury site.
Unfortunately, the ability for a quadriplegic to move in a wheelchair is also impaired because he or she is unable to use any of his or her limbs. Often, people in the area with this type of paralysis require ongoing care, such as a live-in nurse or relative who can meet the individual’s everyday needs.
There is a huge psychological component to paralysis in addition to the physical losses. While some people can regain a degree of mobility with the help of a wheelchair, braces, or walkers, other people need assistance handling basic tasks like going to the restroom, getting dressed, preparing meals, or taking a shower.
Being unable to care for oneself or engage in activities that once brought joy can lead to depression and other emotional issues. For this reason, attorneys in Western PA often encourage people suffering from some type of paralysis to seek counseling to address the emotional impact of their condition and stabilize their mental wellbeing.
Understanding the impact of different types of paralysis injuries in Western PA accidents is important for a skilled attorney to accurately put together a full damage claim on behalf of the injured party. Different types of paralysis require different types of care and have different long-term impacts on a person’s life, and the damage claim should reflect that. Call the office of Marcus & Mack today to schedule a free consultation and learn what our team could do for you.
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