Houston Paralysis Lawyer

Paralysis, the loss of partial or complete motor function, can be a devastating consequence of a serious accident. 

If you or a loved one has suffered paralysis due to someone else’s negligence, a Houston paralysis lawyer at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help you recover the compensation you deserve.

How Does Paralysis Occur?

Paralysis occurs when the nervous system, particularly the spinal cord, is damaged. This can disrupt communication between the brain and muscles, leading to partial or complete loss of movement and sensation. Paralysis is often categorized into:

Paraplegia: 

Loss of function in the lower body and legs, typically resulting from trauma to the thoracic or lumbar regions of the spinal cord.

Quadriplegia: 

Also known as tetraplegia, this involves paralysis of both the upper and lower body, often due to injuries in the cervical spine.

These conditions require long-term care, rehabilitation, and financial support. An experienced Houston paralysis lawyer can make a difference in your case.

How Can a Houston Paralysis Injury Lawyer Help Me Recover Expenses? The Hidden Costs

Paralysis can lead to significant, often hidden, expenses. A Houston paralysis attorney can help you pursue compensation for:

Medical Bills: 

Ongoing treatments, surgeries, physical therapy, and specialized equipment like wheelchairs.

Home Modifications: 

Adapting your home with ramps, lifts, or widened doorways to accommodate mobility needs.

Lost Wages and Future Earnings: 

Compensation for reduced earning capacity due to disability.

Emotional Distress: 

Psychological impacts such as depression or anxiety caused by the injury.

What are The Common Causes of Paralysis?

Paralysis can result from various traumatic events, including:

Spinal Cord Injuries: 

Often caused by falls, sports accidents, or motor vehicle crashes.

Strokes: 

The leading cause of paralysis in the United States, accounting for nearly one-third of all cases.

Brain Injuries: 

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to paralysis by damaging motor control areas of the brain.

Neck Injuries: 

Whiplash or severe trauma to the cervical spine can result in partial or total paralysis.

What Type of Compensation is Available For a Texas Paralysis Injury Claim?

Victims of paralysis may be eligible for:

1. Economic Damages: Covering medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
2. Non-Economic Damages: Compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
3. Punitive Damages: Reserved for cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm.

Types of Spinal Trauma and Paralysis

Spinal cord injuries are classified based on the region of the spine affected:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8): 

Injuries here often result in quadriplegia, impacting the arms, legs, and core.

Thoracic Spine (T1-T12):

Damage here leads to paraplegia, affecting the legs and lower body.

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5): 

Injuries can result in loss of function in the hips and legs.

Sacral Spine (S1-S5): 

Damage impacts pelvic functions but may spare leg movement.

The Psychological Impact of Paralysis

Living with paralysis is not just a physical challenge—it also affects mental and emotional well-being. Victims often face:

Depression: 

The loss of independence and lifestyle changes can lead to feelings of hopelessness.

Anxiety: 

Concerns about finances, future care, and relationships can create ongoing stress.

Social Isolation: 

Mobility limitations may reduce opportunities for social interaction.

A Houston paralysis lawyer can seek compensation for counseling and mental health support as part of your claim.

Paralysis Statistics for the United States

According to a study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information, approximately 5.4 million Americans live with some form of paralysis.

Cause of Paralysis	Percentage of Cases
Spinal Cord Injuries	27%
Strokes	33%
Neurological Conditions	13%
Other Causes (e.g., trauma)	27%

This highlights the prevalence of paralysis and the need for specialized legal representation to secure compensation for victims.

Who are The Potentially Liable Parties in a Paralysis Injury Claim?

Determining who is liable for a paralysis injury depends on the specific circumstances of the accident. However, some common parties who may be held responsible include:

Negligent Drivers: 

If a car accident caused the paralysis, the at-fault driver may be liable.

Property Owners: 

The property owner may be responsible if the injury occurred on someone else’s property due to a hazardous condition.

Employers: 

If the injury occurred at work, the employer may be liable for negligence in workplace safety.

Medical Professionals: 

Medical professionals may be held liable for medical malpractice, such as surgical or medication errors.

Product Manufacturers: 

Defective products can cause accidents leading to paralysis, making the manufacturer liable.

Government Entities: 

If the injury occurred on public property due to negligence, the government entity responsible for the property may be liable.

It’s crucial to consult with a skilled personal injury attorney and Houston paralysis lawyer to identify all potentially liable parties in your case and pursue the appropriate legal action.

Advances in Paralysis Treatment

While paralysis is often considered permanent, medical advances offer hope:

Stem Cell Research: 

Emerging therapies are exploring the potential to repair damaged spinal cords.

Robotic Exoskeletons: 

Devices that assist with movement and improve mobility for some patients.

Physical Therapy Innovations: 

New techniques help maximize remaining motor function and strength.

These advancements can be costly, making comprehensive compensation essential for long-term care.

How Long Do I Have To File A Paralysis Claim In Texas?

Texas law typically allows two years from the date of injury to file a paralysis claim. Failing to act within this timeframe may forfeit your right to pursue compensation.

Can the Texas Comparative Negligence Rule Affect My Paralysis Injury Claim?

Texas follows the modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. You may not recover damages if your share of fault exceeds 50%. 

An experienced Houston paralysis injury lawyer can help build a case that minimizes your liability.

Living with Paralysis From a Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

Adjusting to life with paralysis involves significant challenges, but resources are available:

Physical Rehabilitation: 

It helps maximize mobility and independence.

Support Groups: 

Organizations like the Texas Burn Survivor Society and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association provide emotional and practical support.

Assistive Technology: 

Wheelchairs, communication devices, and home modifications improve quality of life.

Paralysis in the Workplace

Work-related accidents are a significant cause of paralysis, particularly in high-risk industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation.

Employer Negligence: 

Unsafe working conditions or inadequate training may lead to liability.

Workers’ Compensation Claims: 

Victims may also pursue third-party claims if another entity contributed to the injury.

Return-to-Work Challenges: 

Many paralyzed individuals face barriers to employment, even with accommodations.

If you suffered paralysis in a workplace incident, a Houston paralysis lawyer can explore all avenues of compensation.

Community Support for Paralysis Victims in Houston

Houston offers resources and support networks for individuals living with paralysis:

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation: 

Provides information and grants for mobility solutions.

Houston SCI Support Group: 

A local organization offering emotional and practical support for spinal cord injury survivors.

Houston Adaptive Sports and Recreation Programs: 

Opportunities for paralyzed individuals to engage in adaptive sports and recreational activities.

Including these resources in your recovery plan can help improve your quality of life.

Common Myths About Paralysis Claims

Victims of paralysis injuries often encounter misinformation about their legal rights. Here are common myths:

“I Can’t File a Claim If I Was Partially at Fault.” You can still recover damages in Texas if your fault is less than 51%.

“Insurance Will Cover All My Expenses.” Insurance often falls short of covering the lifetime costs of paralysis.

“I Don’t Need a Lawyer.” Paralysis cases are complex and require experienced legal representation to secure maximum compensation.

Victims can make informed decisions about pursuing a claim by dispelling these myths.

Call our Houston Paralysis Attorney in Texas Now! The DeHoyos Accident Attorneys are Here to Help You Today!

If you or a loved one is living with paralysis due to an accident, don’t face this journey alone. At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll of paralysis injuries. Our team is committed to securing maximum compensation to help you rebuild your life.

Houston Paralysis Lawyer Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Paralysis? 

Paralysis is the loss of muscle function or sensation in part of the body. It can be caused by damage to the nervous system, often due to spinal cord injuries, stroke, or other neurological conditions.

2. What are the Common Causes of Paralysis? 

Some common causes of paralysis include:

• Car accidents: Rear-end collisions, head-on collisions, and side-impact collisions can cause spinal cord injuries.
• Motorcycle accidents: These accidents often result in severe injuries, including spinal cord damage.
• Workplace accidents: Falls, heavy object injuries, and electrocution can lead to paralysis.
• Medical malpractice: Surgical errors or other medical mistakes can cause nerve damage.

3. Can I Sue for Paralysis?

 If your paralysis was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit to recover damages. A skilled personal injury attorney can help you determine your legal options.

4. What Damages Can I Recover in a Paralysis Lawsuit?

 If you win your case, you may be able to recover damages for:

• Medical expenses: Past and future medical costs, including surgery, medication, and therapy.
• Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to missed work or reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by your injury.
• Loss of consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship and intimacy with your spouse.
• Loss of earning capacity: Compensation for future lost wages.
• Cost of future care: Compensation for the cost of future medical care and assistive devices.

5. How Can a Paralysis Lawyer Help Me? 

A Houston paralysis lawyer can help you by:

• Investigating the accident: Gathering evidence to determine liability.
• Hiring medical experts: Consulting with medical experts to assess the extent of your injuries.
• Negotiating with insurance companies: Fighting for a fair settlement.
• Filing a lawsuit: If necessary, filing a lawsuit and representing you in court.

Providing support and guidance: Helping you navigate the legal process and understand your rights.