North Carolina Spinal Cord Injury FAQ

SCIs are classified as:

• Complete Injuries: Total loss of function and sensation below the injury site.
• Incomplete Injuries: Partial retention of function or sensation.

Specific outcomes include:

• Quadriplegia: Paralysis of all four limbs, often from cervical spine injuries.
• Paraplegia: Paralysis of the lower body, typically caused by thoracic or lumbar injuries.

Long-term impacts include paralysis, chronic pain, and reduced independence, often requiring ongoing medical care, adaptive equipment, and rehabilitation. These challenges can create substantial financial and emotional burdens for victims and their families.

A spinal cord injury can have a profound impact on your life, both physically and financially. A skilled NC personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.

The compensation available for a spinal cord injury (SCI) depends on the circumstances of your case and whether you pursue a workers’ compensation claim or a personal injury lawsuit. You may be eligible to recover for:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future costs, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and assistive devices.
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time away from work.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: Reduced ability to earn income in the future as a result of the injury.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury (not available in workers’ compensation claims).
• Loss of Consortium: Damages for the loss of companionship, love, and support (not recoverable through workers’ compensation).

If your spinal cord injury occurred on the job, workers' compensation will cover medical expenses, lost wages, and potentially disability benefits, but it does not provide damages for pain and suffering or loss of consortium.

For injuries caused by a negligent third party—such as a subcontractor, equipment manufacturer, or a driver in a car accident—a personal injury lawsuit may allow you to pursue these additional types of compensation.

An experienced attorney can help determine the best course of action based on how your injury occurred.

The timeline for resolving a spinal cord injury case depends on several factors, including the complexity of the injury, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the type of claim being pursued.

• Workers’ Compensation Claims: If your spinal cord injury occurred on the job, workers’ compensation cases are often resolved more quickly, sometimes within a few months. However, disputes over the extent of your injury or eligibility for benefits can delay the process.
• Personal Injury Lawsuits: If your injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, a personal injury lawsuit can take longer, especially if liability is contested or the case goes to trial. While some cases settle within a year, more complex claims involving severe injuries or substantial damages may take several years to resolve.

The level of cooperation from the insurance company, the need for expert testimony, and the willingness of all parties to negotiate also play significant roles in determining how long the process will take. A skilled attorney can help streamline the process and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case.

In North Carolina, you must file a spinal cord injury lawsuit within three years of the injury date. Missing this deadline can bar you from seeking compensation. If your spinal cord injury occurred in a workplace accident, generally you have two years to file the claim with other reporting deadlines applying as well. Certain exceptions may apply, so consulting an attorney promptly is recommended.