The Importance of Timely Action in Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuits

An injury to the spinal cord can not only be painful, but it is also one of the most devastating injuries that a person can suffer from. In some serious cases, such injuries become a life-changer by leaving the survivor partially or completely paralyzed. This often leads to a loss of independence and wages, with some individuals needing round-the-clock medical care.

Since such an injury causes not only physical pain but also emotional and financial distress to the survivor and their family members, they have a right to compensation. But to get the compensation you deserve, timely action is the key. It is the steps that you take after the injury that determine how much compensation you will get. Getting help from a lawyer to file a claim for a spinal cord injury can ensure that you take the right steps after the injury.

What is a Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit?

A spinal cord injury lawsuit can be filed when the injury occurs due to the negligence or recklessness of another party. A few of the most common causes of a spinal cord injury are vehicle accidents, workplace incidents, and slip and fall cases.

When going in for a lawsuit, the victims can expect to get compensation for medical expenses, long-term rehabilitation, loss of wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, etc. However, the amount you get as compensation depends on how strong your case is and the severity of the injury.

Why Is It Important to Act Quickly?

1. Preserving Evidence

For any lawsuit, the most important thing is the evidence. Especially in cases like spinal cord injuries, evidence can be complex. You may need to collect accident reports, surveillance footage, medical records, and witness statements.

Missing even one can directly affect the outcome of your case. Evidence can go missing over time or lose its value, which is why it is important to collect it at the right time.

2. Statute of Limitations

In order to protect both the plaintiff and the defendant and give them equal opportunities, many states have a statute of limitations. It is a set deadline before which the survivor has to file for a claim. Missing the deadline could mean the court dismissing your case and losing your rights to compensation.

By acting quickly, you can ensure that you take the necessary steps to file your claim on time.

3.  Strengthens Your Case

By taking your own time to file a lawsuit, the court may consider that you are not serious about the claim or that your injuries are not that serious. Insurance companies can also use this delay to downplay your claim. By taking timely actions, you can show that you are serious about your claim.

Early steps also strengthen your case, as they allow your attorney to build a strong case while the evidence is fresh.

4. Reducing Financial Stress

A spinal cord injury can leave you with a huge pile of medical bills. From surgeries to therapy to home modifications, you may feel that there is no end to the financial burden. But pursuing your claim on time can help reduce your financial burden by giving you access to financial resources.

Key Takeaways

• Timely actions strengthen your case and increase your chances for better compensation.
• Many states have a strict deadline or statute of limitations.
• The evidence is still fresh and easily accessible during the initial days of the injury.
• Insurance companies use delays to downplay your compensation.
• It reduces your financial stress after the accident.