Los Angeles Paralysis Attorney

Reliable Legal Representation for People With Paralysis in Los Angeles, California

When facing the challenges that paralysis can present, it is crucial to have a trusted Los Angeles paralysis attorney who has the experience, empathy, and dedication to ensure the best possible outcome. At Conlogue Law LLP, we are committed to empowering our clients and their families, guiding them through every step of the legal process with compassion and diligence. 

Our track record speaks volumes about our ability to secure the justice and compensation our clients deserve. From medical expenses and rehabilitation costs to ensuring accessibility accommodations, we have a proven record of success in helping people living with paralysis and their families rebuild their lives. 

If you or a loved one are coping with paralysis in California and seeking reliable legal representation, we invite you to reach out to Conlogue Law LLP today. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and fight for the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve. Together, we can make a difference in your life.

What is Paralysis?

Paralysis occurs when the spinal cord is damaged, causing a blockage of signals between the brain and other parts of the body. When the injury is classified as “complete,” it results in a complete loss of both motor function and sensation in the affected body parts. 

On the other hand, an “incomplete” injury allows some signals to pass through, enabling the person to retain some level of function and feeling in the affected area.

What Are the Different Types of Paralysis?

Paralysis is when you lose the ability to move muscles in a specific part of your body. This happens because of damage to the nerves that carry messages between your brain and muscles, disrupting communication. 

It can affect either one side or both sides of your body, and the condition may be temporary, permanent, or even intermittent. There are various types of paralysis to be aware of:

• Complete Paralysis. Total inability to move or control muscles, accompanied by a loss of sensation in those muscles.
• Partial or Incomplete Paralysis. Partial feeling and potential control over paralyzed muscles, with some sensation remaining.
• Localized Paralysis. Affects a specific area of the body, such as the face, hands, or feet.
• Generalized Paralysis. Widespread paralysis in the body is categorized based on how much of the body is affected.
• Monoplegia. Generalized paralysis that only affects one limb.
• Diplegia. Paralysis occurs in the same areas on both sides, like both arms or both legs.
• Hemiplegia. Paralysis on one side of the body is often caused by a stroke damaging one side of the brain.
• Quadriplegia or Tetraplegia. Paralysis of all four limbs, sometimes accompanied by specific organ paralysis.
• Paraplegia. Paralysis from the waist down.
• Locked-In Syndrome. Paralysis of almost all muscles except those controlling eye movement.

At Conlogue Law LLP, we take pride in offering you the finest Los Angeles paralysis attorney available. Our committed team of legal professionals works diligently to assess your personal injury claim thoroughly and strategize the best approach to secure a favorable outcome that comprehensively covers all your damages.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Paralysis?

When the brain or spinal cord experiences dysfunction, the intricate network of signals and connections that the body relies on can also malfunction, leading to paralysis. This is why a vast majority of paralysis injuries are caused by either Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). How do these injuries happen? Well, they are commonly caused by the following factors:

• Motor vehicle collision
• Car crash
• Motorcycle mishap
• Truck collisions
• Bicycle crash
• Slip and fall incidents and workplace accidents
• Acts of violence, such as gunshot wounds
• Sports-related injuries
• Medical negligence

Not all injuries to the spinal cord or brain are caused by trauma, and paralysis can still occur in such cases. There are non-traumatic injuries that can lead to paralysis, including:

• Strokes
• Genetic conditions like hereditary spastic paraplegia
• Oxygen deprivation caused by choking or other injuries
• Autoimmune disorders
• Infections affecting the brain or spinal cord
• Tumors, lesions, or cancer in the brain or spinal column

Medical professionals commonly use imaging techniques such as CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs to confirm the reasons behind paralysis. Our skilled paralysis attorney in Los Angeles, CA, will work diligently to pursue the highest compensation possible for your compensatory claim, allowing you to concentrate on your recovery and adaptation.

What Are the Different Symptoms of Paralysis?

Quadriplegia and paraplegia are severe injuries, not only because they can be permanent but also due to their unpredictability. Patients may experience changes in their symptoms over time, and unfortunately, many outcomes seem unpredictable. 

While some paralysis patients may see significant improvements, others may not show any progress despite receiving proper treatment. Despite the initial challenges, most paraplegics and quadriplegics continue with physical therapy to enhance their conditions, as the impact of paralysis is profoundly devastating. The symptoms and effects of paralysis include:

• Loss of feeling below the area of the spinal cord or brain injury. In some cases, this loss of sensation is complete and permanent, while in others, it may be reduced or come and go.
• Inability to move the limbs below the injury site. Although some movement may return, most paraplegics and quadriplegics won’t fully regain muscle strength and control.
• Chronic pain arising from complications like muscle atrophy.
• Muscle spasticity in the most affected areas results in sudden, uncontrollable movements.
• Challenges with bladder and bowel control.
• Decreased or lost sexual function and fertility.
• Psychological impacts, particularly depression, and anxiety.
• Respiratory infections, which are the primary cause of death among survivors of spinal injuries.

After experiencing their injuries, numerous paraplegics and quadriplegics may also encounter weight gain. Due to restricted mobility, some patients find themselves needing to lower their calorie intake to avoid the negative health consequences of being overweight or obese.

What to Do Following a Paralysis Injury in California?

If you or a loved one has experienced a paralysis injury in California, it is essential to take specific steps to protect your health, well-being, and legal rights. Here’s what you should do following a paralysis injury:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first and most crucial step is to seek medical attention promptly. Call for emergency medical services or go to the nearest hospital immediately. Getting immediate medical care can significantly impact the outcome and potential recovery.

Follow Medical Advice

Adhere to the treatment plan prescribed by your healthcare providers. Follow through with recommended therapies, medications, and any other medical instructions to maximize your chances of recovery and rehabilitation.

Document Everything

Keep a detailed record of all medical records, treatments received, and expenses incurred. Documentation can play a vital role in building your case and seeking appropriate compensation later.

Preserve Evidence

If possible, try to preserve any evidence related to the accident or incident that caused the paralysis. This may include photographs of the scene, contact information of witnesses, and any other relevant details.

Consult a Paralysis Injury Lawyer

It’s crucial to consult with our trusted Los Angeles paralysis attorney. We can help protect your rights, guide you through the legal process, and pursue compensation on your behalf.

Be Cautious With Insurance Companies

If contacted by insurance companies, be cautious and avoid discussing your case without consulting your personal injury lawyer first. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize the compensation you deserve.

Focus on Rehabilitation

Focus on rehabilitation and therapy to promote recovery and improve your quality of life. A comprehensive rehabilitation program can make a significant difference in managing paralysis.

Remember, every paralysis injury case is unique, and legal options can vary. Working with our reputable paralysis injury lawyer will ensure your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of obtaining fair compensation for your losses and future needs.

How is Paralysis Injury Treated?

Below are the typical methods that medical experts use to treat paralysis:

• Neurosurgery and spinal cord surgeries to address blockages, fractures, or compressions and manage swelling.
• Medications to lower the risk of infections, blood clots, or other related complications.
• Physical therapy to aid patients in regaining function.
• Exercise therapy to alleviate chronic pain.
• Psychotherapy assists patients in coping with their injuries.
• Educational resources for patients and their families, providing information about spine injury, advocacy groups, and family support networks.

Although the treatment for each patient may vary, the most effective chance at recovery for quadriplegia and paraplegia patients generally involves intensive treatments that combine some of the remedies mentioned above.

Who Can Be Held Liable for My Paralysis Injury in California?

In California, more than one party can be held responsible for a paralysis injury. For example, if an employee’s negligence leads to your injury, their employer, parent company, or even insurance company may also be held liable. 

Moreover, even if you share some responsibility for the injury, you can still seek compensation under California’s comparative negligence law. According to this law, you can recover the percentage of damages for which the other party is responsible. 

So, if you are found 30% at fault for the accident, the defendant will have to pay you 70% of the damages you would have received if they were entirely at fault. A jury will decide this percentage of fault based on the information presented by both attorneys and the facts surrounding the incident.

What is California’s Statute of Limitations for Paralysis Injury Claims?

In California, the statute of limitations, which can be found in the California Code of Civil Procedure Sections 312-366, determines the time frame within which a paralysis claim must be pursued. The specific situation in which the injury occurs will dictate the amount of time available for the victim to take legal action. 

For instance, the time limits can differ depending on whether the injury occurs in a car accident, due to medical malpractice, or on government property. Our Los Angeles personal injury attorney will be able to guide you on the exact time frame you have to hold the responsible party accountable.

How Do I Know If I Have a Paralysis Injury Claim?

To establish liability for paralysis, it is necessary to show that a party’s negligent action directly caused the injury. There are four key elements of negligence that the plaintiff (victim) must demonstrate:

• Duty of Care. The defendant had a legal responsibility towards the plaintiff in the specific situation of the injury.
• Breach of Duty. The defendant acted in a way that violated that legal duty or failed to fulfill it.
• Causation. The defendant’s actions or inaction directly led to the plaintiff’s injury.
• Damages. The plaintiff experienced losses as a result of the injury, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

What Are the Recoverable Damages After My Paralysis Injury?

An accident causing paralysis can have a lasting financial impact on you and your family. The expenses go beyond immediate medical costs, as ongoing treatments, specialized rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment are often needed to enhance independence and quality of life. 

These expenses can quickly add up and create a significant burden. Furthermore, the inability to work and earn income adds to the financial strain. As your California paralysis attorneys, we are committed to ensuring that you claim damages for all your present and future expenses.

Economic Damages

These are the actual losses you experience after the life-altering accident. Economic damages can be easily proven with supporting documents like medical bills and receipts. Your attorney will gather and present these documents to show the financial effects of your injury. In a paralysis case, economic damages include:

• Medical bills and expenses
• Expenses for future medical care
• Income lost due to inability to work
• Loss of potential future earnings

Non-Economic Damages

Surviving an accident that results in catastrophic injuries can be a traumatic ordeal. It’s natural to experience feelings of anxiety or depression as you adjust to your new life. Non-economic damages are intended to compensate for these intangible losses. As a victim of paralysis injury, you may be eligible for the following non-economic damages:

• Compensation for pain and suffering
• Recovery from emotional distress
• Damages for loss of enjoyment in life
• Compensation for loss of consortium

Although non-economic damages are challenging to prove, they play a crucial role in reflecting the complete impact of the accident on various aspects of your life. To support your claim for these damages, our competent California paralysis lawyer may collaborate with doctors, psychologists, and other experts who can provide valuable testimony. 

These professionals will assess your condition and analyze how the injury affects different aspects of your life, helping to establish the significance of non-economic damages in your case.

Punitive Damages

Unlike economic and non-economic damages, which are meant to compensate the injured party for their losses, punitive damages serve a different purpose. Their main aim is to punish the at-fault party and discourage others from engaging in similar behavior. 

Punitive damages are usually awarded in cases where the responsible party’s actions were extremely negligent, reckless, or intentional. For instance, if the defendant was driving under the influence of alcohol, causing the accident and resulting in paralysis, you might be eligible for punitive damages as a way to hold the defendant accountable for their egregious actions.

Why Do I Need a Paralysis Attorney in California?

Experiencing a paralysis injury is a life-altering event that can have significant physical, emotional, and financial consequences. If you or a loved one has suffered from paralysis in California due to an accident, medical malpractice, or any other incident, navigating the legal process to seek compensation can be overwhelming and complex. 

Hiring our trusted Los Angeles paralysis attorney is essential to ensure your rights are protected and to maximize your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve. Below are the crucial reasons why having our dedicated paralysis attorney in Los Angeles, CA by your side is crucial for your case.

Experience in Paralysis Injury Cases

Paralysis cases require knowledge and experience in both personal injury law and the medical complexities associated with these injuries. Our skilled paralysis attorney in California has extensive experience handling similar cases, allowing us to understand the unique challenges and nuances involved. 

We can assess the full extent of your injuries, consult medical experts to strengthen your case, and determine the long-term implications of paralysis on your life. Our experience ensures that no aspect of your claim is overlooked, and you have the best possible chance of obtaining a favorable outcome.

Maximizing Compensation

Seeking fair compensation in paralysis injury cases can be complex, as these injuries often lead to substantial medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation, adaptive equipment costs, and long-term care needs. Our legal team knows how to accurately calculate the full extent of your damages, including current and future costs. 

We will work diligently to ensure that all relevant damages are accounted for in your claim, aiming to secure the maximum compensation possible to cover your past, present, and future needs.

Dealing With Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to victims, including those who have suffered from paralysis. They may use various tactics to dispute your claim, downplay the extent of your injuries, or pressure you into accepting a low settlement. Having our skilled Los Angeles paralysis attorney on your side levels the playing field. 

We will handle all communication with insurance companies, protecting you from potential exploitation and ensuring your rights are safeguarded throughout the negotiation process.

Building a Strong Legal Strategy

Our personal injury attorney in California will work closely with you to understand the circumstances of your injury thoroughly. We will gather crucial evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert opinions, to build a compelling legal strategy tailored to your case. 

A strong legal argument is essential in negotiations with insurance companies and can also be crucial if your case goes to trial.

Advocacy and Negotiation

Legal battles involving paralysis injuries can be emotionally draining, especially when you or your loved one is already facing physical and emotional challenges. We will act as your advocate, providing compassionate support while skillfully negotiating with opposing parties on your behalf. 

We will fight to ensure your best interests are represented at all times and that you are not taken advantage of during the legal process.

Knowledge of California Laws and Statutes

Each state has its laws and statutes that govern personal injury cases, including paralysis injuries. Our paralysis attorney in California has in-depth knowledge of the state’s laws, regulations, and procedural requirements. 

This knowledge is invaluable in properly filing your claim, meeting deadlines, and adhering to the specific legal requirements in California.

Trial Experience

While most personal injury cases are settled outside of court, some may require litigation if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation. Our competent Los Angeles paralysis attorney has trial experience and is always prepared to present your case in front of a jury if necessary. 

Our courtroom experience can be a significant advantage, ensuring that your rights are vigorously defended and that you have the best possible chance of success in court.

Fighting for Justice and Compensation You Rightfully Deserve

In the wake of a paralysis injury in California, the importance of having our dedicated Los Angeles paralysis attorney by your side cannot be overstated. The complexities surrounding these cases demand experience, and we will fight passionately to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

At Conlogue Law LLP, we take pride in being a leading legal ally for paralysis victims and their families in California. Our trusted legal team understands the challenges you face, and we are committed to providing unwavering support and advocacy. With a track record of success in securing maximum compensation for our clients, we possess the experience and dedication to navigate the complexities of paralysis cases effectively.

If you or a loved one are coping with paralysis in California and seeking compassionate and results-driven legal representation, turn to Conlogue Law LLP. Our team is ready to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and help you rebuild your life. Our law firm can also represent you in Vehicular Accidents, Pedestrian Accidents, Longshore Claims, and Maritime Accidents.

Together, we can make a difference and ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you rightfully deserve.