Spinal Injury Claims - A Guide for Personal Injury Lawyers

Introduction

Spinal injuries vary from minor insults to complete fractures of the spinal cord causing tetraplegia.

These cases require specialist legal attention to ensure the best results. Paralysis is often accompanied by pain, loss of sexual function, incontinence and susceptibility to systemic infections. Life expectancy will be reduced, especially in the more severe cases. Personal injury practitioners should be aware of the probable scope of the claims and the competing considerations of quantum, including compensation by periodical payments in a suitable case.

Effective conduct of these claims involves balancing the need to progress the claim against the time that will be taken to prepare properly for trial or settlement.

What You Will Learn

This webinar will cover the following:

• The spine, spinal cord and function
• Pain, suffering and loss of amenity awards; range and possible components
• Appointment of medical experts
• Appointment and possible need for other experts (such as care, OT, accommodation)
• The need for and use of evidence of fact to substantiate or refute the claim
• Understanding the issues which are likely to arise between the parties in relation to the severity of the injury and its effects (paralysis, urology, pain)
• Life expectancy
• Possible approaches to settlement including the use of periodical payments

This webinar was recorded on 10th January 2022