Depending on the speed of the collision and the types of vehicles involved, a motor vehicle wreck can result in devastating property damage and catastrophic injuries. In many instances, vehicle occupants will suffer long-term or even life-long injuries that can change the course of their entire future.
Spinal cord damage can lead to a multitude of conditions from the loss of sensation to a reduction in motor control. When the damage is severe enough, an individual might suffer paralysis. Depending on numerous factors, paralysis can take many forms, including:
- Monoplegia: This form of paralysis affects one limb only. For example, an individual might lose movement in one arm or one leg.
- Hemiplegia: Individuals will see changes in movement or sensation in one half of their body – both the left arm and left leg, for example.
- Diplegia: This form of paralysis will affect the same area on both sides of the body. Common examples of diplegia can include both arms being paralyzed or both sides of the face.
- Paraplegia: Both legs and sometimes portions of the body trunk are affected in paraplegia.
- Quadriplegia: The most serious form of paralysis, quadriplegia affects both arms and both legs. It is not uncommon for individuals to have their torso – including the heart, lungs and other organs – be affected.
Injuries to the spinal column can cause damage to the spinal cord, housed inside. Whether torsion, tearing or severing, the damage can be significant. Depending on the positioning of the damage along the spinal column, the type of paralysis can vary. If you were injured in a motor vehicle accident and suffered a serious injury, it is crucial that you discuss your case with an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible.
