Free Consultation

Bronx Spine Injury Lawyer

Victims of spinal cord injuries experience devastating, life-altering effects. There is a high financial, physical, and emotional cost to a spinal cord injury, and victims need to understand their legal options.

Whether caused by a car accident, medical malpractice, or another type of accident, spinal cord injuries often impair a person’s ability to work, socialize, and pay for their medical care.

spinal cord injury lawyers
Marni Lechner from Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys At Law is an absolutely incredible lawyer! I cannot emphasize enough how much she has helped me. Not only is she highly professional and knowledgeable, but she is also an incredibly caring and compassionate person. Whenever I have had legal questions or concerns, she has always been there for me, providing guidance and support. She takes the time to explain everything in detail and ensures that I fully understand my options.One thing that truly sets Marni apart is her dedication to her clients. She fights tirelessly on their behalf, going above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcomes. She has built a strong relationship with me, making me feel valued and heard. Even beyond our professional interactions, she has offered friendly advice and connected me with her colleagues who could provide additional assistance when needed.I am truly grateful for Marni's expertise and support. Her commitment to her clients is unmatched, and I highly recommend her services. If you're looking for a lawyer who is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about your well-being, Marni Lechner is the one to choose. She is an absolute gem in the legal field!
Marni has to be the most helpful attorney I ever came across. From the moment I spoke to her, the care and compassion she has had towards me and my family has been amazing. She is someone you want in your corner if you are dealing with a legal matter. Would recommend 1000%!
The attorneys of this office will always go beyond the call of duty, just being your lawyer, isn't Here is what you will receive Unlike most attornies, calls will be returned promptly, and the level of legal protection is incomparable, guidance is continuous, Marnie Schelinger and her father (Phil), also an attorney will treat you like a member of their family, they will listen to you in detail, explain, guide, and care about your legal matters from the beginning to the end night and day, no matter who the opponent will be they will represent you fully, I praise God for these attornies for whom without I would have been in a "hot mess" and believe me I have a had many a legal issue in this great city of ours, and I would recommend anyone to entertain the thought of retaining the services of this firm, experience, familiarity of the law is plentiful, you will have no regrets, this a winning team of lawyers who will fight for you no matter what, I have been dealing with this firm since (2012)Henry B
I have been going to Ms. Schlesinger for legal matters for nearly two decades. She is always knowledgeable, fair and treats everyone with respect. She is also the rare attorney that listens to her clients, cares about them and is result oriented. I recommend her highly.
I can not begin to emphasize how glad I am that I chose this law firm. Marni has taken such good care of me. During the height of the Pandemic she called me several times to check up on me and my family. She has kept me in the loop about my case all along. My settlement has exceeded far more than I would have ever anticipated. Marni thank you so much for all that you do.
This was the best decision I ever made in choosing a Law Firm..Thank you to Phil for your excellent work and Marni for your personal touch in making it mind easing..Love you allThe Taylor Family
js_loader

At Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law, our spinal cord injury lawyers are dedicated to holding the parties responsible accountable for their actions. If you or a loved one have suffered a spinal cord injury due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, you deserve compensation to recover.

Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

As with any type of injury, a spinal cord injury can occur for many different reasons. When an injury occurs due to the negligence or recklessness of another person, it becomes a personal injury case.

The common causes of spinal cord injuries include:

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are divided into two types:

  • Complete spinal cord injury – This causes permanent damage to the affected area. Paraplegia or quadriplegia are results of complete spinal cord injuries.
  • Incomplete spinal cord injury – This causes partial damage to the spinal cord. The amount of feeling and the ability to move depends on the area of the spine that was injured and on the severity of the injury.

The spinal cord is made up of four sections: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. Each section protects different groups of nerves that control the body. The severity and type of injury to the spine depend on the area of that spine that is injured.

  • Cervical spinal cord injuries – Injuries to this area affect the head and neck region above the shoulders. This is the most severe level of injury and affects the entire body.
  • Thoracic Spinal Cord Injuries – Injuries to this section affect the upper chest, mid-back, and abdomen. Arm and hand function is usually still possible with this level of injury.
  • Lumbar Spinal Cord Injuries – This affects the hips and legs. A person with this level of injury may require a wheelchair or walk with braces.
  • Sacral Spinal Cord Injuries – This level affects the hips, back of thighs, buttocks, and pelvic organs. A person with this level of injury is likely still able to walk.

Living with a Spinal Cord Injury

Life after sustaining a spinal cord injury is a life-changing event. In addition to the physical side effects such as pain and paralysis, victims typically experience mental and emotional side effects like PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury, a person may experience:

  • Changed sensation throughout the body
  • Difficulty controlling their bladder or bowels
  • Problem with sexual function and fertility
  • Phantom pain that radiates elsewhere
  • Pain at the site of the injury
  • Tingling sensations
  • Gastrointestinal issues
  • Difficulty breathing without assistance
  • Changes in their breathing
  • Skin problems, such as bedsores

The challenges of life with a spinal cord injury extend beyond the physical changes. Depression and anxiety are common side effects. Some of the medications a person may have to take due to the injury may change how their brain processes certain neurotransmitters, making them more vulnerable to mental illness.

Cost of Living with a Spinal Cord Injury

The destructive nature of a spinal cord injury, combined with the ongoing and chronic nature of symptoms, means that most people who suffer from this type of injury can expect to incur significant expenses. 

In the first year, medical expenses for spinal cord injuries are generally more than a million dollars. The exact amount depends on the severity of the injury and the number of medical services a person will need. Some of the most common medical expenses include:

  • Surgery
  • Trauma care
  • Physical and occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy
  • Mental health counseling
  • Long-term care, such as costs of in-home care
  • Medical equipment, such as wheelchairs
  • Medications

The loss of earning potential is one of the most significant expenses for spinal cord injury survivors. Even if a person can go back to work, they will typically experience lost wages while taking the time to recover physically and emotionally. 

Long-term costs are hard to calculate. Some of the additional expenses a person could include:

  • Long-term health issues – Many spinal cord injury survivors are more likely to suffer from medical problems like respiratory infections.
  • Mental health issues – The mental health of a person who has experienced a spinal cord injury can deteriorate to the point that they cannot work or have additional medical expenses like therapy and medication.
  • Home modifications – Elevators, ramps, wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, and kitchen may need to be installed to make their home conducive to their needs.
  • Additional equipment – Wheelchair-accessible vans and other types of transportation are often needed.

Your Legal Rights After a Spinal Cord Injury

If you can prove that your spinal cord injury is due to another person’s negligence or a failure to live up to a legal duty, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. Family members may also make a claim on behalf of a loved one, such as when a child is disabled. 

You should not be left with the financial worries or stress that comes with a spinal cord injury. You need to know what the value of your injury claim is and put together a solid case to prove the extent of your injuries and damages. You’ll need to prove that the other party did not fulfill their legal obligation to keep you safe and that you suffered an injury to your spine due to their failure. 

How a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Can Help

At Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law, we are dedicated to helping victims and their families after an accident or medical malpractice incident that has resulted in injury to the spine. Our goal is to help you:

  • Seek adequate financial compensation
  • Ensure adequate medical care
  • Hold the negligent person or persons accountable
  • Protect your family
  • Recover lost wages
  • Protect you against discrimination
  • Connect you with advocacy

After suffering from a severe spinal cord injury, you will need to rely on others for your care. Hiring a spinal cord injury lawyer offers you a way to regain control of your life. You will have a clearer understanding of your rights, access to justice and will be able to move forward with your life.

Free Consultation with a Bronx Spine Injury Lawyer

Contact Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law to request a free consultation.

Call (212) 568-4245

Frequently Asked Questions About Spine Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur due to various reasons, including car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, slip and fall accidents, and work accidents.

Spinal cord injuries are generally categorized into two types: complete spinal cord injury, which causes permanent damage and can result in paraplegia or quadriplegia, and incomplete spinal cord injury, which causes partial damage with varying levels of sensation and movement.

The spinal cord is divided into cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral sections. Each section controls different functions and sensations in the body. For example, cervical injuries affect the head and neck region, while lumbar injuries affect the hips and legs.

Long-term effects can include chronic pain, changes in sensation, difficulty with bladder and bowel control, gastrointestinal issues, and respiratory problems. Psychological impacts such as depression and anxiety are also common.

Living with a spinal cord injury can incur significant costs, including medical expenses for surgery, therapy, counseling, long-term care, and medical equipment. Home modifications and lost earning potential also contribute to the financial burden.

Yes, if your injury was due to another person’s negligence or failure to fulfill a legal duty, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim. This can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs.

A spinal cord injury lawyer can assist you in seeking financial compensation, ensuring adequate medical care, holding the negligent parties accountable, protecting your rights, and connecting you with necessary advocacy and support services.

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately. Call Apicella & Schlesinger Attorneys at Law today at (212) 568-4245 for a free consultation to discuss your case and understand your legal options.