According to a report released by the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, approximately 17,000 new cases of spinal cord injury (SCI) occur every year in the United States and 243,000 to 347,000 people in the country are currently living with SCI.
Vehicle crashes cause 38% of all SCI, making it the leading cause of injury. This is followed by falls, acts of violence (mainly gunshot wounds) and sports or recreational activities. Roughly 80% of new SCI cases involve males. Spinal cord injuries and paralysis can be caused by car accidents such as collisions and rollovers, as well as by:
- Seatbelt failures
- Suspension defects
- Seat back collapse
- Roof collapse
- Tire tread separations
Rollovers – This can happen in any type of vehicle, but is most common in SUVs and other vehicles that have a high center of gravity and narrow wheelbase. Poor standards in roof strength cause the roof to collapse and come into contact with the occupants’ spine, neck and head.
Seatbelt failures – Faulty design of seat belts can result in seatbelts that do not fit tightly or securely enough, that rip apart and do not unlatch during impact and ultimately, fail to restrain the passenger.
Power windows – Cars that are manufactured in the United States do not have an important safety feature that causes retraction of a power window when it comes into contact with a power window. As a result, many young children sustain serious neck injuries every year.
Roof collapse – In most cases, this happens when a car rolls over. Because the roof cannot withstand the collision, it collapses in on the occupants’ heads. It can result in debilitating injury to the spinal cord.
Suspension defects – These cause problems with steering and result in the vehicle losing control. In some cases, suspension defects can lead to rollovers and the injuries that accompany them.
Seat back collapse – When a seat back is faulty, it can collapse when there is an impact. This causes the occupant to be ejected from the vehicle.
Tire tread separations – When tire tread separations occur, a vehicle can quickly lose control. This in turn can result in rollovers, collisions, and the spinal injuries that come with these types of accidents.
Car Accident Claims
Many car accidents are caused by negligence and recklessness. In such cases, it is crucial to hire an experienced car accident attorney to ensure that the injured person receives fair compensation for their injuries and other damages such as medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering, etc.
A Pro Bowl Caliber Law Firm
If you or someone you know has suffered spinal injury in a car accident, you should seek the help of a qualified personal injury attorney at Rosenberg, Minc, Falkoff, & Wolff of RMFW Law at 212-344-1000. We know how to win cases. We have been doing this many years. We have won millions of dollars for past clients. You too can be on this golden and sparkling list. Give us a call. The first meeting is free. We know a viable case when we see on. RMFW Law is not in the business of coming in second place.
