Slip-and-fall accidents could cause catastrophic spinal cord injuries
Slip-and-fall accidents could cause catastrophic spinal cord injuries that render people paralyzed. These accidents often occur on uneven surfaces, such as when a person slips or stumbles and falls on a sidewalk, in an elevator, or at the bottom of stairs. The resulting spinal cord injury could have lifelong repercussions for the victim and their family.
The slip-and-fall accident is a common occurrence. A fall from three feet could be enough to break your nose or your arm, but if you happen to fall at 60 miles per hour onto the concrete pavement, you’ll most likely sustain a spinal cord injury that can render you paralyzed for life
What are the types of paralysis?
Paralysis is an example of a catastrophic spinal cord injury that takes on four distinct forms:
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Monoplegia: As “mono” suggests, this only affects one leg or arm. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the vertebrae L1 – S1 controls lower limb movement, while C4 – T1 controls the upper limbs. A slip and fall that injures these areas could cause monoplegia.
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Hemiplegia: “Hemi” means half, therefore, hemiplegia affects an arm and a leg on the same side of the body. Again, the areas involved in monoplegia are the same that are affected here.
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Paraplegia: This type of paralysis only affects the legs. A slip and fall that injures L1 – S1 could result in being a paraplegic.
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Quadriplegia: Also known as tetraplegia, this type of paralysis affects all four limbs, both arms and both legs. Quad is Latin for four, and tetra is Greek for four as well. This catastrophic spinal cord injury is the most extreme version of paralysis one could have.
Any form of paralysis is a life-altering injury. Many times, paralysis does not improve with time and physical therapy.
If a slip and fall resulted in serious injury or death, it is important to make sure your rights are protected. Slip-and-fall accidents can leave you with unpaid bills and a lifetime of needs, and you deserve fair compensation.
