Tacoma Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers

After sustaining a serious spinal cord injury your life, or the life of your loved one, may never be the same.

We understand the devastating impact of spinal cord injuries. From car accidents and motorcycle accidents to falls and medical malpractice, these life-altering events can leave victims struggling with paralysis, chronic pain and suffering, and a drastically changed quality of life.

The aftermath can feel overwhelming, a tangle of medical bills, emotional anguish, and uncertainty about the future. Since this can have a dramatic impact on victim’s lives, it is crucial compensation is awarded from the liable parties.

That is where we come in. Rush Hannula Harkins & Kyler PLLC (RHHK), your trusted Tacoma personal injury lawyers, are here to stand by you every step of the way.

 

How Our Tacoma Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers Can Help

The law allows you one chance to file a claim, so your choice of the attorney to represent you could be the most momentous decision of your life. RHHK provides experienced, client-centered and team-oriented representation.

Since 1959, we’ve fought for seriously injured clients, rewarding their confidence in us with our determined efforts to obtain the full measure of compensation to which they are entitled.

We know the law, the tactics of insurance companies, and the challenges you face. We’ll be your relentless advocates, guiding you through the complexities of your personal injury case, so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency fee basis.

 

What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?

The spinal cord is a crucial bundle of nerves running down your back, sending messages between your brain and body. Because of this, an injury to the spinal cord is the type of injury that can be catastrophic.

Injury victims can lose some or all motor function below the point of injury. If the injury occurs high on the spinal column, the victim may lose use of the arms and legs (quadriplegia); if the injury occurs below the neck, the victim might not be able to move their legs and suffer impaired abdominal functions (paraplegia).

An injury to this vital pathway can disrupt these signals, leading to various symptoms like:

  • Paralysis: Loss of muscle movement and sensation in parts of your body.
  • Spasticity: Involuntary muscle contractions and spasms.
  • Neuropathy: Pain, numbness, tingling, or burning sensations.
  • Bladder and bowel dysfunction: Difficulty controlling urination and bowel movements.
  • Sexual dysfunction: Loss of sexual sensation and function.

 

Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries

The most common causes of serious spinal cord injury are auto accidents and construction accidents. In each instance, an impact causes compression or bending of the spinal cord that bruises or breaks nerve fibers necessary for transmitting nerve impulses. Other common causes include:

  • Motor vehicle accidents: Car crashes, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and bicycle accidents are some of the leading causes.
  • Falls: From heights, slips and falls, and construction accidents.
  • Violence: Gunshot wounds, stabbings, dog bites, and physical assaults.
  • Sports injuries: Diving accidents, football tackles, and other high-impact sports collisions.
  • Medical malpractice: Improper surgical procedures, anesthesia errors, and birth injuries.

 

Common Procedures for Spinal Cord Injuries

Surgical science has developed several methods for alleviating back and neck pain by decompressing areas around the nerves and stabilizing areas where degenerative injuries have occurred. Common procedures include:

  • Discectomy: Surgery to remove herniated disc material that is pressing on a nerve root or the spinal cord
  • Spinal fusion: Any of several procedures using bone grafts to eliminate painful motion of vertebrae.
  • Laminectomy and laminotomy: Removal of all or part of posterior arch of the vertebral bone to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots.

 

Spinal Injury Surgical Malpractice

While surgeons claim a success rate as high as 80 percent, serious errors also occur, inflicting unnecessary pain and requiring additional surgery to correct. In some cases, the damage due to surgical error is permanent. Common surgical mistakes include:

  • Incision errors: Scalpels or lasers can damage blood vessels and nerves.
  • Misplacement of surgical hardware: Some procedures require screws and plates that must be properly positioned.
  • anesthesia errors: A risk with any surgery, an anesthesia error that allows a patient to awaken during spinal surgery is particularly dangerous.
  • Failures in postoperative monitoring: Postoperative infections, hematomas and blood clots can cause serious repercussions, including paraplegia.

Proving that surgical malpractice caused an increase in back pain or permanent disability is not easy. Fortunately, our attorneys have vast experience in complex malpractice litigation. We’re well versed in surgical protocols and have longstanding relationships with qualified experts whose participation is crucial to your case’s success.

 

The Spinal Cord Injury Claim Process

If your spinal cord injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and ongoing care needs. Here’s what the claim process may look like:

  1. Free consultation: Discuss your case with our experienced injury attorneys.
  2. Investigation: We gather evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements to begin your personal injury claim.
  3. Negotiation: We work with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
  4. Litigation: If a fair settlement isn’t possible, we’ll go to court to fight for your rightful compensation.

 

Spinal Cord Injury FAQs

What is the financial burden of a spinal cord injury?

The financial burden of a spinal cord injury can be immense and long-lasting. Some estimates suggest the first year alone can cost close to $1 million or more for high tetraplegia, with ongoing annual costs reaching hundreds of thousands.

These costs are estimated from potential expenses, treatments, procedures, and cost of living including:

  • Medical expenses: Emergency care, surgery, hospital stays, rehabilitation, medication, ongoing medical care.
  • Lost wages: Inability to work due to the injury and ongoing limitations.
    Home modifications: Modifications to make your home accessible, like wheelchair ramps, bathroom adaptations, etc.
  • Assistive technology: Wheelchairs, prosthetics, specialized equipment for daily living.
  • Loss of earning potential: Reduced job opportunities or lower earning capacity due to the injury.

Remember, these estimates and the actual costs can vary significantly depending on the severity of your injury, your pre-injury income, and your ongoing care needs.

 

Is it worth it to get a personal injury lawyer?

Getting a personal injury lawyer can be crucial if you’ve suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence. They can:

  • Investigate your case: Gather evidence to prove your claim and identify the responsible party.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies: Fight for a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
  • File a lawsuit: If necessary, take your case to court to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.
  • Guide you through the legal process: Provide legal advice and support throughout the complex legal process.

While not mandatory, having an experienced lawyer on your side can significantly increase your chances of getting fair compensation and navigating the legal system effectively.

 

What is the statute of limitations for spinal cord injury claims in Washington?

You have three years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit.

 

What type of compensation can I receive?

If your spinal cord injury was caused by negligence, you may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

  • Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical bills related to your injury.
  • Lost wages: Compensation for income you were unable to earn due to the injury.
  • Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by the injury.
  • Loss of earning capacity: Compensation for your reduced earning potential in the future.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Compensation for the limitations and activities you can no longer participate in due to the injury.

 

Contact an Established and Reputable Spinal Cord Injury Law Firm in Washington State

A permanent spinal injury requires compensation for your lifetime. The dedicated personal injury lawyers of Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC are committed to securing the maximum damage recovery possible.

Call 253-364-4966 or contact us online to arrange your free consultation.

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At Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler PLLC we have the skill and experience to take on a wide range of personal injury cases throughout Washington state. From motor vehicle accidents to workplace injuries – our reputation and success rates keep opposing counsel on edge.

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Winning is when clients get the closure and compensation they deserve. We haven’t settled for less in the last sixty plus years. And we won’t for the next sixty.

$650,000
Client was involved in a bus accident when he was rear-ended by a county bus on the freeway. He sustained it back fractures that required surgery and emotional injuries that prevented him from returning to work.
$300,000
Client was involved in a semi truck accident on the freeway when the truck driver made an unsafe lane change into her lane. Client sustained soft tissue injuries to her neck, shoulders and back as well as a closed head injury and posttraumatic stress disorder.
$275,000
Client involved in a car accident where another driver failed to yield the right of way and pulled in front of him at an intersection. Client suffered injuries to his neck and back.
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We have answers to some of the most common Washington personal injury questions. These are resources for injury victims.

Do I need a lawyer to file a personal injury lawsuit?

What is the statute of limitations in Washington for personal injury?

How much does a personal injury lawyer cost?

How do I file a personal injury lawsuit in Washington state?

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The change you want to see happens when your story goes beyond the courtroom and makes an impact after the case is closed.

  • Our experience with Dan Kyler and Vern Harkins was excellent from the beginning and we were very satisfied with the end results.
  • Dan Kyler and Mike Fisher were professional and dedicated throughout the entire process. I would recommend this law firm to anyone.
  • Vern Harkins perseverance and hard work made it possible to get the maximum settlement from the insurance company. I know he had my interest in mind as demonstrated by his actions.
  • Dan Hannula’s hard work helped to settle my auto accident case.
  • Michael was outstanding. He was always professional, prepared, available for questions, and on top of my case. I highly recommend him and will always consider him to be my first choice for legal matters I need resolved.
  • Mr. Fisher has helped me in the past and is very trustworthy and sincere. I would recommend Michael and of course anyone else at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler.
  • My father was sick and dying, I needed assistance and I need it fast. With a single call to Mr. Fisher’s office, I was warmly welcomed, swiftly assisted and free of the concerns... I am forever grateful to Mr. Fisher for his exquisite services in my time of need.
  • The office staff were courteous, pleasant and kept me informed as to what was going on throughout the whole ordeal.
  • I am extremely satisfied with the service I experienced with this firm and I would recommend them to anyone that needs legal representation. Michael Fisher and his staff are great people.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • I have been a client of Dan Kyler’s since 1996. Having had numerous car accidents, I rely upon the Tacoma auto accident attorneys at RHHK to help me through them. The most obscure questions have been answered and help is given on all levels.
  • Mr. Fisher has helped me in the past and is very trustworthy and sincere. I would recommend Michael and of course anyone else at Rush, Hannula, Harkins & Kyler.
  • Our experience with Dan Kyler and Vern Harkins was excellent from the beginning and we were very satisfied with the end results.
  • The office staff were courteous, pleasant and kept me informed as to what was going on throughout the whole ordeal.
  • Having a motorcycle accident was bad enough, let alone dealing with insurance companies. John Wilson and his staff made everything easy to understand and hassle free.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • Michael was outstanding. He was always professional, prepared, available for questions, and on top of my case. I highly recommend him and will always consider him to be my first choice for legal matters I need resolved.
  • Mr. Fisher is an outstanding lawyer. He’s knowledgeable, responsive, and kept me informed at all times. I would definitely recommend him to anyone in need of a good attorney.
  • My father was sick and dying, I needed assistance and I need it fast. With a single call to Mr. Fisher’s office, I was warmly welcomed, swiftly assisted and free of the concerns... I am forever grateful to Mr. Fisher for his exquisite services in my time of need.
  • Mike Fisher is an example of a quality attorney who sets high standards in servicing his clients in the highest regard as an attorney and he is part of a great firm.
  • Vern Harkins perseverance and hard work made it possible to get the maximum settlement from the insurance company. I know he had my interest in mind as demonstrated by his actions.
  • I am extremely satisfied with the service I experienced with this firm and I would recommend them to anyone that needs legal representation. Michael Fisher and his staff are great people.
  • Having a motorcycle accident was bad enough, let alone dealing with insurance companies. John Wilson and his staff made everything easy to understand and hassle free.
  • Dan Hannula’s hard work helped to settle my auto accident case.
  • John Wilson demonstrated his professionalism by keeping us current on our case, explaining our options, giving us realistic expectations and demonstrating the highest level of ethics and integrity beyond reproach. We have the highest confidence that we were well represented.
  • I have been a client of Dan Kyler’s since 1996. Having had numerous car accidents, I rely upon the Tacoma auto accident attorneys at RHHK to help me through them. The most obscure questions have been answered and help is given on all levels.
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