Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys in Beverly Hills
Dedicated Representation for Seriously Injured Victims
At Levitt, Leichenger, & Aberle LLP, we deal with serious accidents involving severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries (SCI). These tragedies result in permanent disability with life-long medical and associated costs, and our experienced California trial lawyers work to see that the victims of negligent or wrongful conduct are compensated accordingly.
Motor vehicle accidents are the single greatest cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for 37% of all SCI. Drivers and occupants of automobiles are susceptible to SCI from high-end impacts or rear-end collisions, as well as accidents involving trucks, buses, and other large, heavy vehicles. Motorcycle and bicycle riders are especially vulnerable to SCI and other serious injuries due to their exposure and lack of external protection.
To learn the Beverly Hills SCI lawyers at LLA Lawyers can help you, fill out our online form or dial (323) 524-2400. ¡Hablamos Español!
The Anatomy of a Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves which travels along the spinal column, protected inside the 33 vertebrae which make up the backbone. All nerve signals communicate with the brain by traveling back and forth along the spinal cord before branching out to all parts of the body. Whenever the spinal cord is damaged, all communication is lost between the brain and all the nerves below the point of injury. This loss of communication results in a loss of feeling as well as motor function (paralysis).
The spinal column is divided into 3 distinct regions:
- Cervical
- Thoracic
- Lumbar
Below the lumbar region, the remaining vertebrae are fused together into a region known as the sacrum. Nerves in the sacral region are responsible for bowel and bladder control and sexual functioning. Given their low placement along the spine, these nerves are affected in almost every case of SCI.
What Happens After a Spinal Cord Injury?
Basically, any injury to the spine below the cervical region will cause paraplegia, a paralysis of the legs and the lower trunk, depending upon the precise location of the injury. An injury to the spinal cord along any of the seven cervical vertebrae will cause quadriplegia, a paralysis of both arms and legs and the entire trunk up to the neck. An injury in the upper C1-C3 sections will likely also impair the ability of the person to breathe voluntarily, requiring a respirator or ventilator to force air into and out of the lungs. Oftentimes, unless treated right away, victims of a C1-C2 injury do not live beyond the scene of the accident.
Symptoms of Spinal Cord Injuries
Even a small bit of damage to the spine can cause permanent effects.
If you injured you spine during an accident, you may experience these symptoms:
- Numbness
- Limited mobility
- Issues with balance
- Migraines
- Chronic pain
- Paralysis
Call (323) 524-2400 for a free case evaluation with a spinal cord injury attorney in Beverly Hills near you.
SCI’s Can Create a Lifetime of Special Needs
The location and severity of the injury will determine the extent of damage, but in any event, nerve damage is permanent and cannot be repaired. An individual living with SCI will require a lifetime of care and additional expenses. Our attorneys work with physiatrists, neurologists, economists, and life care planners to develop a realistic estimate of the added expenses and care an individual will need over the course of a lifetime.
Create Special Needs Trusts With Our Firm
In addition to life care plans, our attorneys also help in establishing special needs trusts for victims of SCI. The special needs trust is a vehicle for providing for one's care and welfare, with the added benefit of providing financial support while at the same time preserving one's eligibility for public assistance. Regardless of how heavily a special needs trust is funded, its assets are not considered when determining eligibility for Social Security, Medi-Cal, housing, and other government benefits.
How We Can Help Your Injury Case
In preparation for trial, our attorneys often produce day-in-the-life films which show how the injury has affected the client with daily living challenges. These films have a dramatic visual impact and are often extremely valuable in settlement discussions or presentations to a jury.
Local Support for Spinal Cord Injury Victims in Beverly Hills
Living in Beverly Hills, you have access to a range of local resources and support systems that can aid in your recovery and adjustment after a spinal cord injury. The Beverly Hills City Hall and the Beverly Hills Public Library offer various community programs and informational resources that can be invaluable during rehabilitation. Additionally, the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, located just a short drive away, is renowned for its advanced medical care and rehabilitation services, providing top-notch support for spinal cord injury patients.
Residents of Beverly Hills often face unique challenges when dealing with spinal cord injuries, such as navigating the busy streets and dealing with the high cost of living. Our Levitt, Leichenger, & Aberle LLP team understands these local pain points. It is committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, home modifications, and other costs associated with your injury. We are familiar with the local traffic patterns and accident hotspots, which can be crucial in building a strong case for your claim.
Moreover, the Beverly Hills Police Department and local emergency services are well-equipped to handle serious accidents, ensuring that you receive prompt and efficient care in the event of an injury. While we do not partner directly with these entities, we recognize their importance in the community and their role in your safety and well-being.
At Levitt, Leichenger, & Aberle LLP, we are not just your attorneys but your neighbors. We understand Beverly Hills residents' specific needs and concerns and are dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate legal support. If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Let us Help You Fight for the Compensation You Deserve
For attorneys who understand the special needs of a person with SCI and who will fight for a full and fair recovery against the negligent driver or property owner responsible for the accident, call Levitt Leichenger & Aberle LLP.
Dial (323) 524-2400 or complete the online form to have one of our lawyers contact you.
Commonly Asked Questions
Why Should I Choose Levitt, Leichenger & Aberle LLP for My Spinal Cord Injury Case in Beverly Hills?
How Does a Spinal Cord Injury Affect a Person's Life?
A spinal cord injury can profoundly affect a person's life, often resulting in permanent nerve damage and paralysis. This can necessitate a lifetime of special needs, including ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with daily activities, potentially leading to depression. At Levitt, Leichenger & Aberle LLP, we collaborate with medical professionals to accurately estimate the lifetime costs and care needed for SCI victims, to pursue the full compensation required for your new circumstances.