Most Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Poway

Catastrophic injuries can happen in nearly any type of accident in Poway, and spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are no different. In most situations, spinal cord injuries are classified as catastrophic because they result in severe and often permanent disabilities. As the Mayo Clinic explains, spinal cord injuries include any type of injuries that result in “damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal,” which typically result in “permanent changes in strength, sensation and other body functions below the site of the injury.” Most medical professionals classify spinal cord injuries as “complete,” in which there is a total loss of feeling below the spinal cord injury, and “incomplete,” in which a person has some functions below the site of the injury.

In many kinds of accidents that lead to spinal cord injuries, another party’s negligence is to blame for the accident. What kinds of accidents most commonly result in these injuries?

Motor Vehicle Collisions

Motor vehicle collisions—including car accidents, truck crashes, and bicycle and pedestrian accidents—are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries. Indeed, more than 36% of all reported spinal cord injuries happen as a result of motor vehicle crashes. In these scenarios, it is important to learn more about filing a claim against the at-fault driver.

Falls From Heights and Slips and Falls

Falls are the second-leading cause of spinal cord injuries, resulting in about 31% of all identified SCIs, according to the Mayo Clinic. For older adults aged 65 and over, falls are nearly always the cause of a spinal cord injury.

Recreational Activities and Sports

Overall, accidents in sports and other recreational activities like zip-lining or surfing result in approximately 10% of all spinal cord injuries each year. Common sports that can result in SCIs include contact sports like football and hockey, as well as rugby and soccer. Yet it is important to keep in mind that a spinal cord injury can occur in almost any sport.

Surgical Mistakes

Surgical errors, particularly involving procedures affecting the spine, can result in devastating spinal cord injuries.

Acts of Intentional Violence

Gunshot wounds, knife wounds, and other acts of violence cause about 13% of all identified spinal cord injuries every year.

Disease

The Mayo Clinic explains that, while most spinal cord injuries are the result of unintentional accidents or acts of violence, diseases like cancer and osteoporosis can also result in spinal cord injuries. In some situations where disease causes an SCI, a healthcare provider may still be liable.

Contact an Experienced Poway Personal Injury Attorney

If you or someone you love recently sustained a spinal cord injury or another type of catastrophic injury in an accident in or around Southern California, one of our experienced Poway personal injury lawyers can assist you with your case. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us to learn more about filing a claim for financial compensation. Contact the Walton Law Firm today to get started on your personal injury lawsuit.

See Related Blog Posts: Spinal Cord Injuries and Older Adults Hospital Infections and Spinal Cord Injury Patients