Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, affecting a person’s mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. It is crucial to have a thorough understanding of these injuries to lower the prevalence of spinal cord injuries and raise awareness about their common causes.
About 17,900 new spinal cord injury cases are reported in the United States each year, and the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center estimates that the lifetime costs for a person with a spinal cord injury can range from $1 million to $4 million. The number of spinal cord injuries in cities like Fort Lauderdale is growing rapidly. With the increasing number of spinal cord injuries, it becomes important to learn about the causes and how to tackle these injuries, especially if they were caused by someone else’s neglect.
Fort Lauderdale spinal cord injury claims are complex and require the help of an attorney to navigate the complex process of claiming compensation. A knowledgeable legal team can help victims understand their rights and get them suitable compensation.
This blog will explore the most frequent causes of spinal cord injuries and discuss effective prevention strategies.
Vehicle Accidents
Vehicle accidents are the major cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 38.3% of cases. Accidents can happen due to numerous factors, such as driver error, mechanical failure, or poor weather conditions.
Falls
Falls are the second-leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 32.2% of cases. There are various types of falls that can lead to these injuries, including slips and falls, workplace accidents, and falls from heights. Slips and falls often occur due to wet or slippery surfaces, while workplace accidents can result from inadequate safety measures or equipment failure. Falls from heights can happen in various situations, such as construction sites or during recreational activities like hiking.
Acts of Violence
These injuries can result from gunshot wounds, stabbings, or physical assaults. Gunshot wounds, in particular, can cause severe damage to the spinal cord. Stabbings and physical assaults can also cause spinal cord injuries if the force applied is significant or if the victim’s neck or back is directly impacted.
Sports and Recreational Activities
Sports and recreational activities account for 8.5% of spinal cord injuries. Certain sports pose a higher risk for these injuries, including football, gymnastics, and diving. In football, players are susceptible to spinal cord injuries because of the sport’s physical nature and the potential for head and neck collisions. Gymnastics and diving involve complex movements and poses, increasing the risk of injury if the participant lands incorrectly or suffers a fall.
Medical/Surgical Complications
Medical and surgical complications can result from various medical errors, such as incorrect surgical procedures, improper patient handling, or medication errors. Incorrect surgical procedures can occur if a surgeon mistakenly operates on the wrong area of the spine or if there is damage to the spinal cord during surgery.
Improper patient handling, such as rough transferring or repositioning, can lead to spinal cord injuries if the patient’s neck or back is not properly supported. Medication errors can also cause spinal cord injuries if the patient is given a medication that adversely affects their nervous system.
Conclusion
Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences, and understanding the common causes is essential for prevention. By being mindful of the risks associated with the factors causing spinal cord injuries, individuals can take various steps to protect themselves and others from these devastating injuries. By staying informed and vigilant, we can work together to reduce the prevalence of spinal cord injuries and improve the lives of those affected.