Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury changes life in an instant. I’ve worked with clients who went from living independently to needing daily assistance with even the most basic tasks. These injuries don’t just impact mobility—they affect careers, relationships, and the ability to participate in everyday life. Many spinal cord injury survivors face a future of costly medical care, rehabilitation, and home modifications, all while grappling with the emotional and physical toll of the injury itself.

If your spinal cord injury was caused by someone else’s carelessness or recklessness, you have the right to hold them accountable. My role is to stand beside you, protect your rights, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.

How Spinal Cord Injuries Happen

Spinal cord injuries are often the result of sudden, violent trauma to the spine. Common causes include:

• Car accidents
• Motorcycle collisions
• Bicycle crashes
• Slip and fall accidents
• Crushing injuries from malfunctioning equipment
• Construction site accidents
• Gunshot wounds

If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence—or by an intentional act—you may have the right to file a claim and seek damages.

What Compensation Can Cover

In spinal cord injury cases, compensation often addresses both the immediate and long-term effects of the injury. This can include:

• Economic losses: medical bills, surgery costs, hospital stays, physical therapy, rehabilitation, lost wages, future earning capacity, and modifications to your home or vehicle.
• Non-economic losses: pain and suffering, emotional anguish, mental trauma, diminished quality of life, and loss of companionship.

In some cases, when the at-fault party’s conduct was especially egregious, the court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoing and deter similar behavior in the future.

Injured and Have 
Questions?

Call us or request a case review by our experts.

Free Consultation (561) 516-5168

Understanding the Timeline

In Florida, you generally have four years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury claim (Florida Statutes Annotated §95.11(3)). Waiting too long can make it harder—or even impossible—to recover damages. That’s why I recommend speaking with an attorney as soon as possible after an accident.

Types of Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are classified as complete or incomplete:

• Complete SCI: Permanent loss of function below the injury site. This can result in paraplegia (paralysis from the waist down) or, if the injury is near the neck, quadriplegia (paralysis from the neck down).
• Incomplete SCI: Partial loss of movement or sensation in the affected area.

The impact depends on where the spine is injured. Damage to the lumbar spine may limit movement from the hips down, while injuries to the sacral spine can affect reproductive function, thighs, and other areas in the lower body.

My Commitment to Spinal Cord Injury Survivors

I know the legal process can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re also facing a major life change. My commitment is to shoulder that legal burden for you, so you can focus on healing and adapting. I will fight for every dollar you need and deserve, and I will be with you every step of the way.

Call me today at (561) 516-5168 for a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Cord Injury Cases in Florida

1. What should I do immediately after a spinal cord injury?
   Get emergency medical care first. If possible, document the scene, gather witness information, and preserve any evidence. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner we can begin protecting your claim.
2. How much is my spinal cord injury case worth?
   Every case is different. The value depends on factors like the severity of the injury, the cost of medical care, lost income, and how the injury affects your daily life. I work with medical and financial experts to calculate the full extent of your losses.
3. Will I have to go to trial?
   Not necessarily. Many cases are resolved through settlement negotiations, but I prepare every case as if it’s going to trial—so we’re ready if the other side refuses to offer a fair settlement.
4. What if my injury was partly my fault?
   Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were partially at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
5. How long will my case take?
   It varies. Some cases settle within months, while others—especially those involving serious injuries—can take longer. My priority is to get you the best possible result, not just the fastest one.
6. How do I pay for legal representation?
   I work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront, and I only get paid if we win your case or secure a settlement.

Contact Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa Today

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, don’t wait. Contact Rafferty Domnick Cunningham & Yaffa today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal rights. Our experienced medical malpractice attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.