September is Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month, a time to bring light to the causes and challenges of spinal cord injuries (SCIs). In our practice, we’ve found car crash victims with an SCI often leave with more questions than answers — so we’re stepping up to change that. Read on for insights directly from Roman & Boock’s spinal cord injury lawyers.

What is a spinal cord injury?

The spinal cord is a critical bundle of nerves and fibers that stretches from the lower part of the brain down to the lower back. It acts as a messenger for your body — carrying messages from the brain that allow you to move, feel and sense the world.

A spinal cord injury occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord itself, the surrounding tissue or the bones protecting it. The damage scrambles or blocks messages from the brain, resulting in a loss of movement, sensation or bodily function.

How do car crashes cause SCIs?

Car crashes are the leading cause of spinal cord injuries because of the intense, sudden forces associated with them. When a vehicle stops abruptly, the body of a passenger whips forward or sideways at a violent speed, pushing the body far beyond its capabilities.

Bones may fracture, discs may rupture and ligaments may tear. With these protective layers compromised, the spinal cord is prone to compression, tearing or severing.

Who is responsible after a car crash?

Vehicular accidents involve multiple parties, which places the degree of fault into question. Most states determine liability based on a legal principle called “Comparative Negligence.”

Comparative Negligence is used by spinal cord injury lawyers to assign a percentage of responsibility to each motorist. For example, if you were speeding, the court may determine that you were 20% at fault. However, if the other driver ran a red light, the court may determine that they were 80% at fault.

There are two Comparative Negligence systems in place where Roman & Boock practices:

• Pure Comparative Negligence. In Missouri, plaintiffs are always permitted to recover a portion of damages, even if they were largely responsible. However, the total award is reduced by the percentage of fault.
• Modified Comparative Negligence: In Illinois, the plaintiff will also have their total award reduced by their percentage of fault. However, if a plaintiff is found to be at least 51% at fault, they are barred from recovering any damages.

How can a spinal cord injury lawyer help?

Spinal cord injuries come with extensive medical bills, long-term rehabilitation and major upheaval to daily life. We understand that recovery can be overwhelming — so we step in to ease the burden.

Roman & Boock has decades of experience in spinal cord injuries caused by car crashes, slip & falls and medical malpractice. Our spinal cord injury lawyers will aid you in:

• Investigation. An attorney will help you gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, medical records and video surveillance.
• Legal Strategy. An attorney will help you identify all responsible parties and develop a case tailored to the unique circumstances of your injury.
• Negotiations. An attorney will guide you through negotiations with insurance companies, safeguarding you from lowball settlement offers.
• Courtroom Proceedings. If your case proceeds to court, an attorney will advocate for you in front of a judge or jury — ensuring you get the maximum compensation you deserve.

How do I start my case?

At Roman & Boock, every case begins with a free consultation. Our initial meeting is simple: A spinal cord injury lawyer will listen to your story, review the details of your accident and explain your options clearly. From there, the decision to proceed is yours.

Find justice beyond Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month — contact Roman & Boock at 314.754.1500 or potentialclients@boocklaw.com.