A slip on a wet floor. A collision at a busy intersection. In an instant, life can change dramatically. Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) are among the most serious and life-altering injuries a person can experience. They can lead to permanent loss of mobility, chronic pain, and long-term medical needs. In New Jersey, spinal cord injuries happen every year for many reasons, most of them preventable. Let’s explore the most common causes and how an experienced personal injury attorney can help.
Motor Vehicle Accidents: A Leading Cause in NJ
According to the Mayo Clinic, Crashes involving auto and motorcycle accidents are the most frequent cause of spinal cord injuries. In New Jersey, the state’s congested highways and dense population increase the risk of high-impact collisions.
Some of the most dangerous types of crashes include:
Rear-end collisions that force the spine into unnatural motion.
Rollover accidents that eject occupants or cause direct trauma.
Motorcycle crashes, where riders are exposed to direct impact.
Reckless driving, speeding, and distracted behavior behind the wheel often play a role. The result can be fractured vertebrae, spinal disc damage, or even paralysis.
Falls: A Serious Threat to Seniors and Workers
Falls are another major contributor to spinal injuries, especially among older adults and those in physically demanding jobs. These incidents often occur on construction sites, in warehouses, or due to poorly maintained walkways and other areas.
Common fall-related scenarios include:
In many cases, the underlying cause is negligence on the part of a property owner, an employer, or a facility responsible for safety.
Sports and Recreation Accidents
Athletic and recreational activities can offer health benefits, but some carry serious risks. High-impact sports like football, hockey, gymnastics, and wrestling are known for their potential to cause spinal injuries. Even non-contact activities can lead to harm if safety is overlooked.
One of the most preventable causes of SCIs is diving into shallow water—an accident that often leaves young people facing permanent disability. Protective equipment and proper training can help reduce the risk, but some injuries still occur due to unsafe premises or a lack of warning signs.
Acts of Violence and Assault
Though less common than accidents, acts of violence—such as assaults, gunshot wounds, or stabbings—can result in severe spinal cord trauma. These cases often involve multiple layers of legal complexity, mainly when the violence occurs on someone else's property or is tied to inadequate security.
Victims may face not only medical recovery but also emotional trauma and the challenge of navigating both civil and criminal legal processes.
Medical or Surgical Complications
Spinal cord injuries can also arise in medical settings. When procedures go wrong or conditions are misdiagnosed, patients may suffer preventable harm.
Examples include:
Surgical errors during spinal procedures.
Anesthesiology mistakes impacting spinal nerves.
Delayed diagnosis of infections or tumors affecting the spinal cord.
These situations may warrant a medical malpractice claim, which can help patients recover compensation and gain clarity about what went wrong.
Legal Help for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in New Jersey
Living with a spinal cord injury can mean adjusting to a new way of life—physically, emotionally, and financially. When another person’s carelessness caused the injury, you have the right to pursue accountability and compensation.
At The Cassidy Law Firm, we advocate for individuals and families throughout New Jersey, including in Shrewsbury and across Monmouth County. Our legal team thoroughly investigates the facts, identifies responsible parties, and aggressively pursues the maximum compensation.
Whether the injury occurred on the road, on the job, or in a hospital, our firm is prepared to help you seek justice. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.