Spinal Cord Injury Attorney in San Diego, CA: The Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen
A spinal cord injury is a life-altering event, not just for the person who experiences it but also for their loved ones. Alongside the physical and emotional toll it takes, a spinal cord injury often brings with it financial burden and legal complexities. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in San Diego, CA, the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen is dedicated to guiding you through the legal maze that often follows such tragic events.
What Constitutes a Spinal Cord Injury?
Spinal cord injuries are often caused by a severe impact to the spine, which can lead to complete or incomplete paralysis. These injuries are generally categorized into:
- Complete spinal cord injury. Where there is a total loss of sensory and motor function below the injury level.
- Incomplete spinal cord injury. In these cases, some neurological function remains below the level of the injury.
Common causes include motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries, and workplace incidents.
Legal Aspects of Spinal Cord Injuries in California
In California, if your spinal cord injury occurred due to someone else's negligence or intentional actions, you could file a personal injury claim. California operates under the concept of 'comparative negligence,' meaning that even if you are partially at fault, you may still be eligible for compensation.
Initial Steps Following a Spinal Cord Injury
The period following a spinal cord injury is critical for your health and potential legal case. Here’s what you should consider doing:
- Immediate medical attention. The faster you receive specialized medical care, the better your prognosis may be.
- Preserve evidence. Whether it’s from an accident scene or medical records, gather all relevant evidence.
- Consult with a lawyer. Understand your legal options by discussing your case with a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with spinal cord injuries.
In California, if your spinal cord injury occurred due to someone else's negligence or intentional actions, you could file a personal injury claim. California operates under the concept of 'comparative negligence,' meaning that even if you are partially at fault, you may still be eligible for compensation.
Initial Steps Following a Spinal Cord Injury
The period following a spinal cord injury is critical for your health and potential legal case. Here’s what you should consider doing:
- Immediate medical attention. The faster you receive specialized medical care, the better your prognosis may be.
- Preserve evidence. Whether it’s from an accident scene or medical records, gather all relevant evidence.
- Consult with a lawyer. Understand your legal options by discussing your case with a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with spinal cord injuries.
Services Offered by Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen
Our team at the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen can assist you in various ways, including:
- Initial consultation. We offer a comprehensive initial consultation to assess your case and discuss your options.
- Case evaluation. We help determine the merit of your claim and what you can potentially recover in damages.
- Documentation and paperwork. Filing the proper legal documents can be overwhelming. We handle this tedious aspect of the process for you.
- Representation in negotiations and trial. Our team will represent you diligently, whether we are negotiating a settlement or presenting your case in court.
Time Constraints in Spinal Cord Injury Cases in California
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, there are exceptions based on specific circumstances, such as when the injury victim is a minor. It is vital to consult with a legal team as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Potential Damages in Spinal Cord Injury Cases
The aftermath of a spinal cord injury is costly. The types of compensation you may seek include:
- Medical expenses. These encompass immediate hospitalization costs, ongoing medical care, and any future medical needs.
- Lost wages and future earning capacity. If you're unable to return to work or perform at the same level as before, you can claim compensation for lost wages and diminished future earning potential.
- Non-economic damages. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen?
- Local focus. As a local firm, we understand San Diego’s legal environment and community, which can be invaluable for your case.
- Client-centric. We put your needs first, ensuring you receive the personal attention your case deserves.
- Transparent approach. You will always know where your case stands, as we believe in keeping lines of communication open at all times.
Act Now for a Better Tomorrow
Recovering from a spinal cord injury is a long journey, but you don't have to go it alone. If you or a loved one has suffered from such an injury in San Diego, CA, the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen is committed to assisting you every step of the way. Visit our website to schedule a no-obligation consultation today.
By taking the first step with the Law Offices of Philip M. Cohen, you're not just finding legal representation; you're gaining an ally in your journey toward justice and recovery. Don’t wait. Your better future is just a click or a phone call away.