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Expert Child Injury Attorneys Serving Renton, Washington

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Understanding Child Accident Injuries in Renton

In Renton, Washington, our young ones face various risks, from road accidents as pedestrians, cyclists, or passengers, to falls, burns, and poisonings. Particularly prevalent are car accident injuries, such as head or brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and thoracic injuries. School-related incidents, including bus, playground, and sports accidents, also pose significant risks. As a parent, it’s crucial to be aware of these dangers and take proactive steps for your child’s safety.

Navigating Legal Challenges with Child Injury Claims in Renton

Legal cases involving minors in Renton require a unique approach due to their vulnerability and the long-lasting impact of their injuries. When your child suffers due to someone else’s negligence, it’s not just a legal issue—it’s a family crisis. As your local Renton advocates, we’re here to guide you through these complex situations, ensuring the responsible parties are held accountable.

Renton-Specific Causes of Child Injuries

Vehicle-related incidents are a leading cause of minor injuries in Renton. With our local insights, we understand the unique challenges young drivers face here, from navigating busy streets to dealing with inclement weather. Our community initiative, Teens Against Distracted Driving, is tailored to educate Renton’s youth about safe driving, emphasizing local road conditions and challenges.

Playground and Water Safety in Renton

Our children love Renton’s playgrounds and water bodies, but these places can also be hazardous. We’re keenly aware of the specific playground and pool safety standards in our area, and we’re prepared to act when these standards are not met, whether it’s due to poor maintenance or negligent supervision.

Immediate Steps for Renton Parents After an Accident

In the aftermath of an accident in Renton, your first priority is your child’s health. Then, it’s vital to document everything—photos, witness details, and a written account. As your local Renton child injury lawyers, we’re equipped to evaluate your case with a deep understanding of Washington’s legal landscape and Renton’s specific nuances.

Premier Law Group: Your Local Renton Advocates for Child Safety

Our connection to Renton isn’t just professional; it’s personal. We live and work here, understanding the community’s unique challenges and needs. Our free case reviews are tailored to Renton families, considering local resources, legal precedents, and community standards. With our local expertise, we’re uniquely positioned to help your family navigate these trying times.

Why Choose Us for Your Child Injury Case in Renton?

Premier Law Group stands out in Renton for our commitment to personalized service and deep local knowledge. We offer Renton-specific guarantees:

  1. Direct attorney consultation for Renton residents.
  2. Premier client experience, tailored to Renton’s community.
  3. No fees unless we win your Renton case.

Reach Out for Renton-Specific Legal Support

If your family in Renton is grappling with the aftermath of a child’s injury, let us lend a hand. Our free case review is more than a legal consultation; it’s a step towards healing and justice, grounded in our understanding of Renton’s unique community fabric. Call us at 206.285.1743 – your local Renton child injury experts, here to support you every step of the way.

Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys in Washington

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Spinal cord injuries are among the most painful and costly injuries a person can endure. These injuries are usually caused by some sort of accident and can result in inhibition of motion and even paralysis. It is critical to speak to an experienced spinal cord injury attorney as soon as you can. At Premier Law Group, our Bellevue spinal injury attorneys have a wealth of experience handling serious injury cases. We know that spinal cord injuries often produce medical bills and treatments that can last an entire lifetime. That is why it is important not to settle quickly for less money than you deserve. If you need any advice on your potential case, give us a call at 206-285-1743 for a free case evaluation.

Spinal cord injuries are a common occurrence. As many as 400,000 Americans are suffering from the ongoing effects of spinal cord injuries, and over 4 out of every 5 of them are male. They are caused by bruising, tearing, or crushing of spinal cord tissue, and just like brain injuries, are oftentimes car accident-related. These injuries are very serious and can lead to death. If a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence that has led to their death, this would be considered a wrongful death case. If you would like more information about how our Seattle and Bellevue spinal cord injury attorneys can help you out, click this link.

Navigating Spinal Cord Trauma in Washington

Spinal cord injuries are the result of a strong force that acts on the very sensitive nerve column in the back. 

This force can dislocate the vertebrae of the spine and is often caused by:

  • Car Accidents
  • Falling
  • Sports injuries
  • Job-Related Accidents

Not only is this incredibly painful, but it can affect the spinal discs and nerves, thus causing permanent damage. This essentially cuts off the pathway between the brain and the rest of the body, thus potentially leading to paralysis. 

Differentiating Spinal Cord Injury Types

Bellevue Spinal Cord Attorneys

There is a large range of spinal cord injuries, but they are broken into two categories: complete and incomplete.

  • Complete spinal cord injuries are where all feeling and ability to move is lost below the point of injury – this would be paralysis. The severity of these injuries necessitates a comprehensive approach to spinal cord injury compensation, involving not only immediate medical needs but also long-term care, rehabilitation, and potential modifications to living spaces. Spinal cord injury victims pursuing a spinal cord injury lawsuit benefit from legal representation that comprehensively addresses their unique circumstances, seeking compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
  • The second type is incomplete spinal cord injuries, which is when nerve damage is less serious and most control is maintained. While individuals with incomplete injuries may retain some functionality, the journey to recovery remains challenging. It is paramount for those with incomplete injuries to initiate spinal cord injury claims promptly, recognizing that early rehabilitation significantly enhances the chances of recovery. Our legal professionals specializing in personal injury lawsuits, particularly those related to spinal cord injuries, play a pivotal role in ensuring that victims receive the necessary support and compensation for their physical, emotional, and financial hardships.

One has a much greater chance of recovery within six months after a spinal cord injury, so it is very important to begin rehabilitation as soon as possible.

Grasping the Full Impact of Spinal Cord Injuries

Bellevue Spinal Cord Lawyers

Spinal cord injuries can be very costly.  Not only the initial costs of the injury and subsequent expenses but the expenses that can occur for years can really add up. According to the National Center for Spinal Cord Injuries, the lifetime cost for a 25-year-old who suffers a spinal cord injury is $4,729,788. For someone who was injured 25 years later in their life at the age of 50, that number would look more like $2,599,411. This is a staggering amount and with the overall uncertainty of the health insurance laws and industry, the chances of these amounts being fully covered are slim. 

Spinal cord injury lawsuits encompass a range of legal strategies, from negotiating settlements to pursuing litigation, depending on the circumstances of each case. Effective legal representation in spinal cord injury cases involves a thorough understanding of the medical aspects of the injury, the long-term impact on the victim’s life, and the potential financial burdens involved.

Our spinal cord injury lawyers adeptly navigate the legal landscape, advocating for their clients’ rights and ensuring that they are justly compensated for the damages incurred. As spinal cord injury victims embark on the path to recovery, the assistance of our experienced legal professionals becomes a beacon of support, guiding them through the intricate process of seeking justice and rightful compensation.

Financial Recovery for Spinal Cord Trauma Victims

Are you wondering what types of things you can be compensated for when it comes to Spinal Cord Injuries?  

Bellevue Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

Determining the compensation for a spinal injury can be complex and depends on various factors, including the severity of the injury, the impact on the individual’s life, and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Spinal injury compensation typically covers economic and non-economic damages, aiming to address both the financial losses and the intangible losses experienced by the injured party. Here are some factors that influence the compensation for a spinal injury:

  • Medical bills-These are most likely going to be your biggest expense after suffering a spinal cord injury. Looking back to the figures above, medical care alone can quickly reach into the millions. Compensation often also includes current and future medical expenses related to the spinal injury. This may encompass surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, assistive devices, and ongoing medical care.
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses-These can be expenses like food, lodging, and travel. Anything you pay for out of your own pocket during treatment from the Spinal Cord Injury.
  • Lost Wages-Inevitably you will miss work for treatment, recovery, and potentially not be able to return to work.
  • Pain and Suffering-Your Spinal Cord Injury will likely affect your quality of life and change the way you live both in the short-term and long-term. 
  • Loss of Consortium-Loved ones will have to deal with many hurdles along the way including when your relationship is affected and changed from how it was before your injury.
  • Loss of Essential Services-Your Spinal Cord Injury may affect your daily life.  You may not be able to do the things you used to do as you used to do them.
  • Rehabilitation and Assistive Devices- Costs associated with rehabilitation programs, physical therapy, and assistive devices like wheelchairs or adaptive technology are considered in determining compensation.
  • Home Modifications– If the individual’s home needs modifications to accommodate their new mobility needs, such as ramps or accessible bathrooms, these costs may be factored into the compensation.

Spinal cord injuries affect not only the individuals directly involved but also their families and communities. Spinal cord injury victims often face profound challenges in adjusting to the consequences of their injuries. Seeking legal guidance from our specialized spinal cord injury lawyers becomes crucial for those navigating the complexities of spinal cord injury cases.

The Premier Law Group specialize in understanding the intricacies of traumatic brain injury and other associated challenges that often accompany spinal cord injuries. Whether it’s a cervical spinal cord injury, resulting in severe paralysis, or a lumbar spinal cord injury with varying degrees of impairment, the expertise of our spinal cord injury lawyers is instrumental in pursuing spinal cord injury claims.

How Premier Law Group Advocates for Spinal Cord Injury Patients

First, we will help you decide whether you even need a lawyer – if you can settle your case on your own, our free book can help provide the guidance you need to do just that. For more complex cases, you will want to have an experienced spinal cord injury attorney to get the best settlement possible. Remember, the trauma you experience right after spinal cord injuries can be the tip of the iceberg. It isn’t until you have fully healed that you can know about the full nature and extent of your injuries, including, if you have any permanent damage. Spinal cord injuries are very likely to result in permanent damage. Insurance companies will pressure you to settle before you know the full extent of the impact of an accident. That’s not right, and we will stand up for you!

We will:

  • Listen carefully to your needs, questions, and concerns
  • Handle ALL the legal issues so you can focus on healing
  • Deal with the insurance companies – sometimes there is more than one!
  • Order all medical records and bills related to your injuries
  • Walk you through the litigation process so you fully understand what is happening
  • Communicate with you regularly so you know how your case is progressing

Many law firms may take personal injury cases. Few offer the experience, knowledge, and resources our Bellevue Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys do. We also offer a Triple Guarantee to our clients. We guarantee that you will immediately speak to a Bellevue Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer as soon as you call us-no waiting. Our second guarantee is that you will pay no legal fees unless we win your case.  That is our Zero-Fee Guarantee. We also guarantee to treat you with the utmost respect and answer all questions you may have.  We keep lines of communication open with our clients. It is important for us to work to give you the best possible experience you can have. 

Call us now at (206)-207-4722  for your FREE case evaluation and to speak directly to an expert Personal Injury Attorney

Don’t just take our word for it, see what our clients have to say!

“Incredible legal team at PLG! Kristi, Syuzanna, Jason, and the whole team made my case process quick and stress-free. Not to mention, the team went the extra mile and assisted me in gaining additional compensation than previously expected! Highly recommend Premier Law Group for personal injury claims.” -Benjamin H.

“I have been working with Aubrey since early June. So far she had been nothing but EXCEPTIONAL!!! Every time I have inquiries about my claim, she’s always been graciously proactive and very professional in dealing with all my concerns regarding my claim. Audrey goes above and beyond in her efforts to reach out to me and I’ve always felt comfortable knowing that she’s gonna advocate what’s best for her client. I am truly grateful for all what she has done so far. She’s definitely a GEM!!!” -Oscar E.

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Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit in Washington State: How We Can Help

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At Premier Law Group, we know firsthand the pain and emotional upheaval a catastrophic injury can cause. But as daunting as it might seem, we’re here to guide you through every step, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. Let’s explore the landscape of catastrophic injury lawsuits in Washington State and how we stand by your side.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries

Definition and Types

A catastrophic injury doesn’t just change your health; it changes your life. Whether it’s traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, paralysis, or the loss of a limb, these injuries can permanently affect one’s quality of life.

Common Causes

Major causes include car accidents, workplace mishaps, or falls. Regardless of the cause, what remains constant is our commitment to fighting for the rights of our clients.

Laws You Should Be Aware Of

Washington State’s “pure comparative fault” rule is unique. Even if you’re partially at fault, you still have a right to compensation. We’re well-versed with this rule and have leveraged it to secure rightful claims for our clients.

Negligence Explained

At its core, negligence is about a lack of reasonable care that leads to an injury. Our team specializes in proving negligence, ensuring the party at fault is held accountable.

Initiating a Lawsuit with Premier Law Group

Importance of Robust Evidence

Evidence is the backbone of any lawsuit. With our resources and expertise, we ensure that no stone is left unturned in gathering compelling evidence for your case.

Why Choose Us?

Beyond our track record, what sets us apart is our genuine care for our clients. We provide a free consultation to evaluate your case, and with our no-win, no-fee promise, we ensure you don’t bear any financial burden unless we secure a victory for you.

Our Commitment Throughout the Litigation Process

Navigating a lawsuit can be overwhelming. That’s why we, at Premier Law Group, walk with you at every step, from filing to verdict, ensuring clarity and support.

Potential Compensation Avenues

Tangible Damages

These include medical expenses, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket costs. Our objective? Ensure you’re compensated for every penny spent.

Intangible Damages

Beyond the financial strain, catastrophic injuries take an emotional toll. In Washington State, there’s no cap on non-economic damages, and we fight tooth and nail to ensure you’re compensated for every ounce of pain and distress.

Injury Prevention: An Ounce of Prevention

While we’re here to help post-injury, we also believe in the power of prevention. Regular safety checks and precautions can significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic events.

Our Promise to You

At Premier Law Group, our clients aren’t just case numbers; they’re our priority. We promise unwavering support, top-notch legal expertise, and a commitment to securing the best possible outcome for you.

FAQs

  1. How long do I have to initiate a lawsuit post-injury in Washington?
    • You typically have three years from the injury date.
  2. Why should I choose Premier Law Group?
    • Our blend of experience, client-centric approach, and our no-win, no-fee policy makes us the ideal choice.
  3. How long does the litigation process last?
    • Depending on the case complexity, it can range from a few months to several years.
  4. If I’m partially at fault, can I still pursue a lawsuit?
    • Absolutely, thanks to Washington’s “pure comparative fault” rule.
  5. Are there any upfront charges with Premier Law Group?
    • No, we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay only when we win.

Expert Construction Injury Attorneys in Washington

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Seattle is the 15th largest city in the United States. We are close to having 4 million people in the Seattle metropolitan area. With all of these people come many construction projects on new buildings, renovations, and more. Construction site accidents are very common. Worker’s Compensation may be able to help but it is not enough when serious injuries occur due to someone else’s negligence. When you are injured on the job or have a loved one who has died from job-related injuries you need the help of knowledgeable experienced and aggressive construction accident lawyers in Seattle, Washington.

There are many different types of construction accidents including:

Washington State does not allow individuals to sue their own employers however people that are injured still have legal rights that will allow them to be compensated for their injuries.

Because there are so many safety regulations in place for construction sites, it is common for negligence to be a contributing factor. Some examples of things that can cause Construction Site Accidents are unsafe equipment, tripping hazards, lack of protection for workers, and even hazardous electrical exposures.

Construction Accident Attorney Bellevue and Seattle

Our Seattle construction accident attorneys can help you no matter where you live in Washington State. We often make home and hospital visits. We truly go the extra mile for our clients. Our experience, past results, and personal attention make us different from other Washington construction accident attorneys.

Call us now at (206)-207-4722  for your FREE case evaluation and to speak directly to an expert Personal Injury Attorney.

Different Construction Vehicles: An Overview

There are a variety of vehicles on a construction site.  These vehicles include:

  • Bulldozers: Bulldozers have a large bucket on the front, with sharp teeth used to dig through materials.
  • Front-loaders: Front-loaders are similar to bulldozers but don’t dig. They use their front bucket to scoop materials and move it to another area.
  • Backhoe: Backhoes have two separate components. The first is a large shovel that digs backward. On the front is a loader, which moves materials found on a construction site.
  • Dump trucks: Dump trucks are found both on and off construction sites. They haul materials, waste, or other byproducts of construction. The bed of the truck lifts up, so the material inside can slide out.
  • Cement trucks: Cement trucks have a large cylinder attached to a flatbed. It turns as the cement mixes and a slide pours the cement.
  • Cranes: Cranes lift heavy objects high off the ground. When not in operation, a truck transports the crane. This can be difficult for the operator to see around.

These are some of the common vehicles found on construction sites. Each has its own unique risks, particularly for those who need to work around the vehicle.

Prominent Crane Mishaps: Washington and Beyond

Seattle crane accident attorneys

Sadly, crane operator errors have caused several notable crane accidents in our area. The most recent have been:

  • Google Seattle Office Building – in 2019, in this case, a tower crane’s bolts were loosened improperly during high winds.  Subsequently, the crane collapsed during disassembly.  Four people lost their lives:  two ironworkers, and two drivers in their vehicles, on the street next to the construction site.
  • Belltown Seattle – in 2017, a high-rise construction crane dropped a load of plywood. The load fell on a construction worker causing serious injuries, and there were property damages.
  • Tower 333 Project in Downtown Bellevue – in 2006, a tower crane foundation gave way, and the crane fell over, hitting three buildings.  A resident in one building was killed, and the crane operator and other workers were seriously injured.  Further, there were extensive property damages.

Beyond Seattle, the Bureau of Labor Statistics compiled US crane accident fatalities.  From 1997 to 2006, there were (818) crane accident deaths in the United States.   In 2006 alone, 72 people lost their lives.

There are four states leading the country in fatal crane accidents.  They are:

  • Texas – 42 Fatalities
  • Florida — 27 Fatalities
  • California – 25 Fatalities
  • Louisiana – 17 Fatalities

While cranes are essential and important construction tools, crane accident statistics show a bigger reality.  Crane operator errors cause serious injury accidents and fatalities.

Safety Protocols: Ensuring Crane Operation Security

Two government agencies manage the health and safety regulations for construction crane use and operations.  They are:

  • OSHA — United States Department of Labor/Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  • WISHA — Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act

OSHA regulations are found here in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart CC.  These regulations govern the following:

  • Tower Crane Parts Inspection:  All parts require inspection prior to crane assembly
  • Crane Operators’ Certification: Training, qualification, and certification credentials
  • Site Conditions: Evaluated and assessed  for health and safety conditions
  • Construction Site Work Plans: Evaluated for federal and state health and safety standards

WISHA is in charge of the crane operator’s health and safety qualification and certification credentials.  The following code sections govern crane operation requirements in Washington:

OSHA and WISHA Regulations, certifications, and quality standards are important, as baselines governing crane operations.  And still, crane accidents are happening, and causing catastrophic injuries and property damage.

Figuring out who is liable and who to file injury claims within major construction projects can be a nightmare.   Victims of crane accidents need the expertise of a Seattle personal injury attorney, as soon as possible.

Digging Deeper: What Causes Deadly Crane Collapses?

In 2007, the governor signed a bill with strict regulations governing construction crane assembly, disassembly, and crane operators’ certifications.  This bill protects workers, the public, and victims of crane accidents.

The bill was in response to statistical data that showed the following:

  • 25 percent of crane fatalities – are caused by accidental electrocutions
  • 21 percent of crane fatalities – happen when crane loads strike people
  • 20 percent of injuries – occur when hit by a crane or parts of the crane
  • 14 percent of fatalities – are caused by crane collapses

While the intent was to protect workers and citizens alike, serious crane accidents continue to happen.  Why?

Common Causes Behind Crane Accidents

Crane accident victims have broken bones, cuts, disfigurement, facial injuries, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, chemical burns, electrocution, loss of limbs, and death.

According to OSHA, most crane accidents happen due to:

  • Electrocution – when the boom or crane hits energized power lines
  • Crane collapse
  • Dropped loads and material spills
  • Crane operators and workers fall
  • Improper assembly/disassembly of cranes
  • Operating cranes during bad weather, including – high winds, lightning storms, tornadoes, snow, ice, and other weather events

Most certainly, crane accidents cause debilitating injuries with financial, emotional, and physical costs to the victim and his or her family.

If you are injured on the job, you need to keep two goals in mind:

1.You want to recover from your injury and get back to life as you know it. Make sure you get the best medical care.

2.You want to secure the most money possible to pay for all your medical expenses, loss of income, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.

Blueprint to a Successful Construction Injury Claim in Washington

These goals are best accomplished by following certain steps. By doing the following things, you will make it easier for your doctor and construction accident lawyer to do their best for you.

1: Thoroughly Document Each Incident

If you have been injured on the job, don’t play the strong, silent type. It doesn’t matter how insignificant your different symptoms may seem. Be sure to tell your physician about all of your symptoms, regardless of the doctor’s specialty. Tell your doctors all of your complaints from head to toe. Be as detailed as possible. Some minor symptoms, such as stiffness, headache, or dizziness could be early symptoms of a much greater problem. If months later that problem becomes more severe, your attorney can prove it was related to the accident because you immediately had complaints in that area of your body.

A common example of that is a spinal injury such as disc herniation. In patients who suffer from back and neck pain, most doctors try months of physical therapy and medication before an MRI is recommended to rule out spinal injury.

If the patient complained of radiating pain, or numbness and tingling, early on in the course of her treatment, an attorney can prove the disc damage that is detected months later is a result of the accident. Important Note: Pain that radiates to the arms, legs, and across the shoulders, as well as a sensation of numbness or tingling in arms, fingers, legs, and toes, are early signs of spinal injury. If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately.

2: Safeguard All Pertinent Evidence

Take photos of wounds, lacerations, bruises, and all other physical evidence of your injury. A bruise may fade in a day. Also, take photos of the site where the injury took place. Evidence is often cleared away and may never be available again.

3: Identify Potential Witnesses

Sometimes independent witnesses can make the difference in a case. Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of anybody who witnessed your accident. Having the ability to prove through independent witnesses that an accident happened the way you say it did can be the difference between winning and losing.

4: Maintain a Work Injury Journal

From the time of your accident to the time you fully recover, or to the time your case goes to trial, many important details will be forgotten. Remember the day that you sat there and watched your friends ski but couldn’t do it yourself because of your pain? This may not seem to be a significant day in your life. Remembering that experience and telling the jury how you felt that day will draw a more compelling picture in the jurors’ minds than any doctor can paint. Hearing you describe your pain in plain language rather than by your doctor describing your construction injury in medical terms.

Construction Accident Journal

Keep a journal and write your daily experiences in it. Make sure you note any restrictions your injury causes and pain you experience. Share this information with us so that we may better understand the full extent of your construction accident injuries. This will help your Seattle Construction Accident Lawyer to demonstrate it better to the jury or whoever we are settling your case with.

 

5: Continue Your Medical Treatment

It doesn’t matter why you stop going to the doctor. If you do, you are risking that the jury will assume that you were feeling fine and didn’t need treatment. It will also take longer for you to recover from your injury. Many reasons might seem logical at the time but, when your long-term health is concerned, don’t rob yourself of a healthy future. By following a consistent treatment plan, you enable your Seattle construction accident attorney to prove the ongoing nature of your pain and suffering and to show that you did everything you could to get better.

Do not sit and wait for your doctor to refer you to another specialist. If a certain type of treatment is not helping, talk to your doctor or us about other methods of treatment. Many doctors have a difficult time giving up on you and believe they can eventually heal you. While that may be true, you owe it to yourself to get a second opinion from a specialist. If for example, your back pain has not resolved after a few weeks of physical therapy or chiropractic treatment, you should consult with an orthopedist or neurologist.

As long as you are in pain, you need to see your doctor and medical providers consistently. If no treatment has proven helpful, you still need to make and keep your doctor appointments so that you can tell your doctor about your complaints. Ultimately, the main proof of your injury will be the medical records created during your visit to your doctor’s office.

6: See the Right Doctor

Seattle Construction Site Accident Lawyer

For different types of injuries, there are different types of doctors that you need to go to. For some injuries, you may need to see more than one type of doctor. The following general guideline may be used as a reference. However, this is only a brief coverage of the topic. A physical examination by a doctor is needed to determine which type of specialist is needed in your case.

  • Neurologist – Severe consistent headaches, dizziness and vertigo, numbness, paralysis, loss of motion and/or feeling, loss of memory, loss of consciousness, and/or change in cognitive functioning may require a neurologist’s analysis or testing.
  • Orthopedist – Spinal injuries, severe and continuous neck and/or back pain, pain and discomfort in shoulder, knees, hands, and feet as well as all broken bones or other spinal and bone-related injuries usually require visiting an orthopedist.
  • Psychologist / Psychiatrist – Anxiety, depression, withdrawal, fear, phobia, and other behavioral and mood-related symptoms must be examined by a Psychologist or a Psychiatrist.
  • Physical Therapist / Chiropractor – While the above-mentioned doctors will treat patients by medication or surgery, almost everyone who has muscle, tendon, ligament, and spinal injury could benefit from a course of physical therapy and chiropractic treatment.
  • Other Specialists: Obviously, there are many other specialists that have not been listed such as Ophthalmologists, Otolaryngologists, Podiatrists, etc.

Call our construction site attorneys now at (206)-207-4722  for your FREE case evaluation and to speak directly to an expert personal injury attorney

Collecting Crucial Evidence for Construction Accidents

By following the above, you will have done your part in providing us with all the tools necessary to obtain you the absolute maximum recovery possible. Of course, we do not want you to undergo any unnecessary treatment or examination as it will undermine the legitimacy of your injury claim as well as create unnecessary medical bills that may not be compensable.

How Our Construction Injury Experts Advocate for You

First, we will help you decide whether you even need construction accident lawyers – if you can settle your case on your own, our free book can help provide the guidance you need to do just that. For more complex cases, you will want to have an attorney to get the best settlement possible. Remember, the trauma you experience right after car accidents can be the tip of the iceberg.

It is not until you have healed fully that you can know about the full nature and extent of your injuries. Often permanent damage will not be revealed until months even years after your accident. Insurance companies will pressure you to settle before you know the full extent of the impact of an accident. That’s not right, and we will stand up for you! We will:

  • Listen carefully to your needs, questions, and concerns
  • Handle ALL the legal issues so you can focus on healing
  • Deal with the insurance companies – sometimes there is more than one!
  • Order all medical records and bills related to your injuries
  • Walk you through the litigation process so you fully understand what is happening
  • Communicate with you regularly so you know how your case is progressing

Premier Law Group’s construction accident lawyers have years of experience successfully representing families who have suffered the devastation of a construction site injury in Seattle, Renton, Federal Way, or Bellevue. We have won millions of dollars for our past clients. We will do whatever we can to help you recover the maximum possible compensation.

Call Now at (206)-207-4722 For Your FREE Construction Accident Consultation

What to expect when you call us:

We will immediately patch you through to a top Seattle Personal Injury Lawyer.

You will be able to give them an overview of your case.

Our Attorney will let you know if we think you have a case or not.

If you do, we will book a longer consultation.

If you don’t, we will refer you to the best resources available, possibly even another law firm.

There is no risk to you and you are protected by Our Triple Guarantee, which also includes our Zero-Fee Guarantee.

A blurred image of personal injury attorney, Jason Epstein, with a white background.

Expert Construction Injury Attorneys in Washington

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Seattle is the 15th largest city in the United States. We are close to having 4 million people in the Seattle metropolitan area. With all of these people come many construction projects on new buildings, renovations, and more. Construction site accidents are very common. Worker’s Compensation may be able to help but it is not enough when serious injuries occur due to someone else’s negligence. When you are injured on the job or have a loved one who has died from job-related injuries you need the help of knowledgeable experienced and aggressive construction accident lawyers in Seattle, Washington.

There are many different types of construction accidents including:

Washington State does not allow individuals to sue their own employers however people that are injured still have legal rights that will allow them to be compensated for their injuries.

Because there are so many safety regulations in place for construction sites, it is common for negligence to be a contributing factor. Some examples of things that can cause Construction Site Accidents are unsafe equipment, tripping hazards, lack of protection for workers, and even hazardous electrical exposures.

Construction Accident Attorney Bellevue and Seattle

Our Seattle construction accident attorneys can help you no matter where you live in Washington State. We often make home and hospital visits. We truly go the extra mile for our clients. Our experience, past results, and personal attention make us different from other Washington construction accident attorneys.

Call us now at (206)-207-4722  for your FREE case evaluation and to speak directly to an expert Personal Injury Attorney.

Different Construction Vehicles: An Overview

There are a variety of vehicles on a construction site.  These vehicles include:

  • Bulldozers: Bulldozers have a large bucket on the front, with sharp teeth used to dig through materials.
  • Front-loaders: Front-loaders are similar to bulldozers but don’t dig. They use their front bucket to scoop materials and move it to another area.
  • Backhoe: Backhoes have two separate components. The first is a large shovel that digs backward. On the front is a loader, which moves materials found on a construction site.
  • Dump trucks: Dump trucks are found both on and off construction sites. They haul materials, waste, or other byproducts of construction. The bed of the truck lifts up, so the material inside can slide out.
  • Cement trucks: Cement trucks have a large cylinder attached to a flatbed. It turns as the cement mixes and a slide pours the cement.
  • Cranes: Cranes lift heavy objects high off the ground. When not in operation, a truck transports the crane. This can be difficult for the operator to see around.

These are some of the common vehicles found on construction sites. Each has its own unique risks, particularly for those who need to work around the vehicle.

Prominent Crane Mishaps: Washington and Beyond

Seattle crane accident attorneys

Sadly, crane operator errors have caused several notable crane accidents in our area. The most recent have been:

  • Google Seattle Office Building – in 2019, in this case, a tower crane’s bolts were loosened improperly during high winds.  Subsequently, the crane collapsed during disassembly.  Four people lost their lives:  two ironworkers, and two drivers in their vehicles, on the street next to the construction site.
  • Belltown Seattle – in 2017, a high-rise construction crane dropped a load of plywood. The load fell on a construction worker causing serious injuries, and there were property damages.
  • Tower 333 Project in Downtown Bellevue – in 2006, a tower crane foundation gave way, and the crane fell over, hitting three buildings.  A resident in one building was killed, and the crane operator and other workers were seriously injured.  Further, there were extensive property damages.

Beyond Seattle, the Bureau of Labor Statistics compiled US crane accident fatalities.  From 1997 to 2006, there were (818) crane accident deaths in the United States.   In 2006 alone, 72 people lost their lives.

There are four states leading the country in fatal crane accidents.  They are:

  • Texas – 42 Fatalities
  • Florida — 27 Fatalities
  • California – 25 Fatalities
  • Louisiana – 17 Fatalities

While cranes are essential and important construction tools, crane accident statistics show a bigger reality.  Crane operator errors cause serious injury accidents and fatalities.

Safety Protocols: Ensuring Crane Operation Security

Two government agencies manage the health and safety regulations for construction crane use and operations.  They are:

  • OSHA — United States Department of Labor/Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  • WISHA — Washington Industrial Safety and Health Act

OSHA regulations are found here in 29 CFR 1926, Subpart CC.  These regulations govern the following:

  • Tower Crane Parts Inspection:  All parts require inspection prior to crane assembly
  • Crane Operators’ Certification: Training, qualification, and certification credentials
  • Site Conditions: Evaluated and assessed  for health and safety conditions
  • Construction Site Work Plans: Evaluated for federal and state health and safety standards

WISHA is in charge of the crane operator’s health and safety qualification and certification credentials.  The following code sections govern crane operation requirements in Washington:

OSHA and WISHA Regulations, certifications, and quality standards are important, as baselines governing crane operations.  And still, crane accidents are happening, and causing catastrophic injuries and property damage.

Figuring out who is liable and who to file injury claims within major construction projects can be a nightmare.   Victims of crane accidents need the expertise of a Seattle personal injury attorney, as soon as possible.

Digging Deeper: What Causes Deadly Crane Collapses?

In 2007, the governor signed a bill with strict regulations governing construction crane assembly, disassembly, and crane operators’ certifications.  This bill protects workers, the public, and victims of crane accidents.

The bill was in response to statistical data that showed the following:

  • 25 percent of crane fatalities – are caused by accidental electrocutions
  • 21 percent of crane fatalities – happen when crane loads strike people
  • 20 percent of injuries – occur when hit by a crane or parts of the crane
  • 14 percent of fatalities – are caused by crane collapses

While the intent was to protect workers and citizens alike, serious crane accidents continue to happen.  Why?

Common Causes Behind Crane Accidents

Crane accident victims have broken bones, cuts, disfigurement, facial injuries, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, chemical burns, electrocution, loss of limbs, and death.

According to OSHA, most crane accidents happen due to:

  • Electrocution – when the boom or crane hits energized power lines
  • Crane collapse
  • Dropped loads and material spills
  • Crane operators and workers fall
  • Improper assembly/disassembly of cranes
  • Operating cranes during bad weather, including – high winds, lightning storms, tornadoes, snow, ice, and other weather events

Most certainly, crane accidents cause debilitating injuries with financial, emotional, and physical costs to the victim and his or her family.

If you are injured on the job, you need to keep two goals in mind:

1.You want to recover from your injury and get back to life as you know it. Make sure you get the best medical care.

2.You want to secure the most money possible to pay for all your medical expenses, loss of income, lost earning potential, and pain and suffering.

Blueprint to a Successful Construction Injury Claim in Washington

These goals are best accomplished by following certain steps. By doing the following things, you will make it easier for your doctor and construction accident lawyer to do their best for you.

1: Thoroughly Document Each Incident

If you have been injured on the job, don’t play the strong, silent type. It doesn’t matter how insignificant your different symptoms may seem. Be sure to tell your physician about all of your symptoms, regardless of the doctor’s specialty. Tell your doctors all of your complaints from head to toe. Be as detailed as possible. Some minor symptoms, such as stiffness, headache, or dizziness could be early symptoms of a much greater problem. If months later that problem becomes more severe, your attorney can prove it was related to the accident because you immediately had complaints in that area of your body.

A common example of that is a spinal injury such as disc herniation. In patients who suffer from back and neck pain, most doctors try months of physical therapy and medication before an MRI is recommended to rule out spinal injury.

If the patient complained of radiating pain, or numbness and tingling, early on in the course of her treatment, an attorney can prove the disc damage that is detected months later is a result of the accident. Important Note: Pain that radiates to the arms, legs, and across the shoulders, as well as a sensation of numbness or tingling in arms, fingers, legs, and toes, are early signs of spinal injury. If you have these symptoms, tell your doctor immediately.

2: Safeguard All Pertinent Evidence

Take photos of wounds, lacerations, bruises, and all other physical evidence of your injury. A bruise may fade in a day. Also, take photos of the site where the injury took place. Evidence is often cleared away and may never be available again.

3: Identify Potential Witnesses

Sometimes independent witnesses can make the difference in a case. Get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of anybody who witnessed your accident. Having the ability to prove through independent witnesses that an accident happened the way you say it did can be the difference between winning and losing.

4: Maintain a Work Injury Journal

From the time of your accident to the time you fully recover, or to the time your case goes to trial, many important details will be forgotten. Remember the day that you sat there and watched your friends ski but couldn’t do it yourself because of your pain? This may not seem to be a significant day in your life. Remembering that experience and telling the jury how you felt that day will draw a more compelling picture in the jurors’ minds than any doctor can paint. Hearing you describe your pain in plain language rather than by your doctor describing your construction injury in medical terms.

Construction Accident Journal

Keep a journal and write your daily experiences in it. Make sure you note any restrictions your injury causes and pain you experience. Share this information with us so that we may better understand the full extent of your construction accident injuries. This will help your Seattle Construction Accident Lawyer to demonstrate it better to the jury or whoever we are settling your case with.

 

5: Continue Your Medical Treatment

It doesn’t matter why you stop going to the doctor. If you do, you are risking that the jury will assume that you were feeling fine and didn’t need treatment. It will also take longer for you to recover from your injury. Many reasons might seem logical at the time but, when your long-term health is concerned, don’t rob yourself of a healthy future. By following a consistent treatment plan, you enable your Seattle construction accident attorney to prove the ongoing nature of your pain and suffering and to show that you did everything you could to get better.

Do not sit and wait for your doctor to refer you to another specialist. If a certain type of treatment is not helping, talk to your doctor or us about other methods of treatment. Many doctors have a difficult time giving up on you and believe they can eventually heal you. While that may be true, you owe it to yourself to get a second opinion from a specialist. If for example, your back pain has not resolved after a few weeks of physical therapy or chiropractic treatment, you should consult with an orthopedist or neurologist.

As long as you are in pain, you need to see your doctor and medical providers consistently. If no treatment has proven helpful, you still need to make and keep your doctor appointments so that you can tell your doctor about your complaints. Ultimately, the main proof of your injury will be the medical records created during your visit to your doctor’s office.

6: See the Right Doctor

Seattle Construction Site Accident Lawyer

For different types of injuries, there are different types of doctors that you need to go to. For some injuries, you may need to see more than one type of doctor. The following general guideline may be used as a reference. However, this is only a brief coverage of the topic. A physical examination by a doctor is needed to determine which type of specialist is needed in your case.

  • Neurologist – Severe consistent headaches, dizziness and vertigo, numbness, paralysis, loss of motion and/or feeling, loss of memory, loss of consciousness, and/or change in cognitive functioning may require a neurologist’s analysis or testing.
  • Orthopedist – Spinal injuries, severe and continuous neck and/or back pain, pain and discomfort in shoulder, knees, hands, and feet as well as all broken bones or other spinal and bone-related injuries usually require visiting an orthopedist.
  • Psychologist / Psychiatrist – Anxiety, depression, withdrawal, fear, phobia, and other behavioral and mood-related symptoms must be examined by a Psychologist or a Psychiatrist.
  • Physical Therapist / Chiropractor – While the above-mentioned doctors will treat patients by medication or surgery, almost everyone who has muscle, tendon, ligament, and spinal injury could benefit from a course of physical therapy and chiropractic treatment.
  • Other Specialists: Obviously, there are many other specialists that have not been listed such as Ophthalmologists, Otolaryngologists, Podiatrists, etc.

Call our construction site attorneys now at (206)-207-4722  for your FREE case evaluation and to speak directly to an expert personal injury attorney

Collecting Crucial Evidence for Construction Accidents

By following the above, you will have done your part in providing us with all the tools necessary to obtain you the absolute maximum recovery possible. Of course, we do not want you to undergo any unnecessary treatment or examination as it will undermine the legitimacy of your injury claim as well as create unnecessary medical bills that may not be compensable.

How Our Construction Injury Experts Advocate for You

First, we will help you decide whether you even need construction accident lawyers – if you can settle your case on your own, our free book can help provide the guidance you need to do just that. For more complex cases, you will want to have an attorney to get the best settlement possible. Remember, the trauma you experience right after car accidents can be the tip of the iceberg.

It is not until you have healed fully that you can know about the full nature and extent of your injuries. Often permanent damage will not be revealed until months even years after your accident. Insurance companies will pressure you to settle before you know the full extent of the impact of an accident. That’s not right, and we will stand up for you! We will:

  • Listen carefully to your needs, questions, and concerns
  • Handle ALL the legal issues so you can focus on healing
  • Deal with the insurance companies – sometimes there is more than one!
  • Order all medical records and bills related to your injuries
  • Walk you through the litigation process so you fully understand what is happening
  • Communicate with you regularly so you know how your case is progressing

Premier Law Group’s construction accident lawyers have years of experience successfully representing families who have suffered the devastation of a construction site injury in Seattle, Renton, Federal Way, or Bellevue. We have won millions of dollars for our past clients. We will do whatever we can to help you recover the maximum possible compensation.

Call Now at (206)-207-4722 For Your FREE Construction Accident Consultation

What to expect when you call us:

We will immediately patch you through to a top Seattle Personal Injury Lawyer.

You will be able to give them an overview of your case.

Our Attorney will let you know if we think you have a case or not.

If you do, we will book a longer consultation.

If you don’t, we will refer you to the best resources available, possibly even another law firm.

There is no risk to you and you are protected by Our Triple Guarantee, which also includes our Zero-Fee Guarantee.

A blurred image of personal injury attorney, Jason Epstein, with a white background.

Bellevue Paralysis Injury Lawyer

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Car Accidents | Truck Accidents | Motorcycle Accidents | Bicycle Accidents

Bellevue Paralysis Injury Lawyer

Experiencing a traumatizing accident that results in paralysis is devastating. It can turn your life upside down in a single moment. Paralysis limits your independence, your employment opportunities, and potentially your ability to participate in activities that used to bring you joy. 

Permanent paralysis is defined by a complete loss of nerve and muscle function in extremities and other body parts. It is typically the result of a sudden injury to the spinal cord. If you have been negligently injured by a catastrophic blow to the spinal cord, speak to a top-rated Bellevue paralysis injury lawyer at Premier Law Group for an assessment of your case. We have a high history of success in obtaining justice for victims affected by a devastating injury. 

Spinal Cord Injuries Resulting in Paralysis in Bellevue 

Spinal cord damage can impact different regions of the body and can range from mild to severe depending on the scope of the damage. Commonly, nerve damage in the spinal column results in symptoms such as loss of sensation and paralysis. To identify where the spinal cord is damaged, medical professionals describe the location by letter and number correlated with the affected vertebrae. The following are identifying spinal cord injuries associated with paralysis and other symptoms: 

Injury to the Cervical Spine: C1-C8 

Damage to the cervical spine, affecting vertebrae C1-C8, protects the upper portion of the spinal cord. When these vertebrae sustain an injury, victims can experience symptoms such as extreme weakness or paralysis in the limbs. Damage to this region of the spine is generally more catastrophic due to the proximity to the brainstem. Symptoms may include: 

  • Inability to breathe without equipment
  • Loss of sensation
  • Lack of bowel or bladder control
  • Requiring a brace or permanent stabilization

The more superior the injury is on the spinal cord, the more critical the paralysis can be. If the damage is in your neck, it may cause quadriplegia, paralysis of all four extremities and often requires the use of a ventilator. Catastrophic injuries may take a toll on victims and affect their emotional and financial wellbeing. Speak to an experienced paralysis injury lawyer for an assessment of your case. We work to fiercely negotiate on your behalf in order to recover the losses you’ve experienced. 

Injury to the Thoracic Spine: T1-T12 

Damage to the middle spine, or thoracic spine, may result in partial or total paralysis of the lower extremities. Victims affected by a catastrophic injury to the lower spine often experience the following symptoms: 

  • Loss of sensation
  • Lack of bowel or bladder control
  • Tingling in the limbs 

Victims who experience damage to their T1-T12 vertebrae may be able to retain use of their arms but will often be restricted to a wheelchair. 

Injury to the Lumbar Spine: L1-L5 

Damage to the lumbar spine, located in the lower back, can cause loss of motor function in the lower extremities. These types of injuries typically do not affect the use of your arms. L1-L5 injuries range in severity depending on the location and impact of the blow. Symptoms may include: 

  • Lack of control in the glutes, genital organs, and abdomen
  • May require surgery 

If you have been injured in the lumbar spine due to negligence, speak to an experienced Bellevue paralysis injury lawyer for an assessment of your case. A knowledgeable paralysis attorney can assist you in building a comprehensive case in order to pursue the compensation you deserve. 

Injury to the Sacral Spine: S1-S5 

Sacral spine injuries, located in the upper gluteal region, can impair the following bodily functions: 

  • Lack of bowel and bladder control 
  • Movement of the hips and legs 
  • Control and strength of the thighs 
  • Sensation and movement in the calves, feet, and genital organs

Even though this is low in the spine, injuries to the S1-S5 can still be life-altering for the victim. 

Frequent Causes of Paralysis in Bellevue 

As well as injuries to the spinal cord, there are other frequent causes of paralysis. After an accident caused by negligence, victims have the right to pursue justice for their devastating injuries. Other causes of paralysis in Bellevue include: 

  • Traumatic Brain injuries
  • Car accidents
  • Strokes
  • Nerve injuries
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Slips and falls
  • Diving accidents
  • Sports accidents
  • Violent crimes 

No matter the accident you have faced, the Bellevue Premier Law Group paralysis injury lawyers are experienced in handling the complexities of your case in order to recover compensation on your behalf. 

Determining Liability for a Paralysis Injury in Bellevue 

Paralysis injuries can have severe physical, emotional, and financial costs for the victim. Those who have suffered a catastrophic paralysis injury due to negligence deserve to be compensated for the severe losses they have experienced. At times, multiple parties can be at-fault for your paralysis injury. Speak to a skilled Bellevue paralysis injury lawyer for a thorough investigation of your claim to determine who is liable for the devastating injuries you have endured. You may be able to recover monetary damages for the following: 

  • Present, past, and future medical treatment and possibly rehabilitation 
  • Present, past, and future lost wages or loss of income 
  • Aid in accommodating your home to your physical disability 
  • Aid in providing you live-in care 
  • Pain and suffering 
  • Loss of enjoyment of life 

A successful Bellevue paralysis injury claim can aid in recovering compensation for necessary financial obligations brought upon by your catastrophic injury. Work with an experienced paralysis injury lawyer for fierce advocacy and a chance to obtain justice for the injury you have endured due to someone else’s negligence. 

Speak to an Experienced Bellevue Paralysis Injury Lawyer at Premier Law Group 

Suffering from a Bellevue catastrophic injury such as a paralysis injury can have severe, life-altering negative consequences for the victim. It may take a substantial physical, emotional, and financial toll. We understand how much you have lost because of someone else’s negligence. Premier Law Group is determined to fight on your behalf to obtain the compensation you deserve for your substantial losses. To obtain the justice you deserve, speak with an experienced Bellevue paralysis injury lawyer today for an assessment of your case. 

Premier Law Group is a compassionate, client-oriented law firm dedicated to helping clients recover maximum compensation. We are skilled advocates and are committed to obtaining the justice you deserve. To schedule a complimentary case evaluation, fill out our contact form or call (206) 880-7518.

Washington Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers

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Bellevue Seattle Renton and Federal Way Spinal Cord injury Attorneys

What is a Spinal Cord Injury?

Every part of the body relies on the spinal cord. Without the spinal cord, the brain could not communicate with the body about movement, sensations, or decisions. This is why a spinal cord injury could have harmful effects on those who suffer from them.

These injuries can happen in many ways and result in serious issues.  They can affect motor function as well as the ability to perform common daily activities. More than 10,000 spinal cord injuries happen each year in the United States. As a result, victims’ lives can change forever.

If you are suffering from a spinal cord injury, the lawyers at Premier Law Group can help.

Call 206.285.1743 to speak directly with one of our personal injury attorneys and start your free case review. You will pay no legal fees unless we win your case.

Effects on The Brain

Spinal cord injuries are trauma that occur along the spinal cord. A complete spinal cord injury cuts off communication between the brain and the spinal cord below the injury. This is the most frequent cause of paralysis. For instance, victims with a complete spinal cord injury at the base of the neck become unable to feel or move anything below that point.

On the other hand, incomplete spinal cord injuries allow for some communication between the body and the brain. The area below the injury may still experience some sensations and have some ability to move.

Furthermore, most spinal cord injuries begin with the fracturing or dislocation of vertebrae. Broken or fractured bones can tear through the spinal cord, severing it and leaving the victim permanently paralyzed. Additionally, ligaments and disc material that push against, compress or bruise the spinal cord can cause temporary or partial paralysis as well.

Causes of a Spinal Injury

A spinal cord injury is not the result of any specific type of accident. There are many ways that victims can sustain such an injury. For instance, some spinal cord injuries stem from arthritis, cancer, inflammation, or infections. These are non-traumatic spinal cord injuries. However, the majority of these injuries result from trauma.

Traumatic spinal cord injuries can occur:

  • During a serious car crash
  • When struck by a car as a pedestrian or bicycle rider
  • Falling down stairs
  • Being struck hard while playing sports
  • When shot with a gun
  • Being stabbed with a knife
  • Slipping and falling on ice, water, spills, debris, or uneven surfaces

Spinal cord injuries tend to get worse over time as well, especially when the victim does not receive proper medical treatment. This is why it is important for victims who injure their backs to see a doctor right away.

Symptoms of a Spinal Cord Injury

Many think that spinal cord injuries should be easy to identify. However, there are symptoms that victims might not notice right away. This makes it vital for patients to see a doctor quickly after an injury.

The symptoms of the two types of spinal cord injuries differ.

  • A complete spinal cord injury comes with a complete loss of feeling in the area below the injury. Victims also lose the ability to control their motor function. Typically, this loss of motor function means not being able to move, rather than moving out of control.
  • An incomplete spinal cord injury usually comes with the loss of only some feeling and control below the injury.

While there are no other major symptoms of spinal cord injuries you should seek medical attention if you are feeling any numbness in your extremities and have back pain.

Diagnosis

A spinal cord injury can often be diagnosed by symptoms alone. However, in most cases, doctors will perform an MRI, x-rays and other tests to confirm the diagnosis. Additionally, a specialist may look at the x-rays to determine the extent of the damage and whether any amount of recovery is possible for the victim.

Prognosis

For victims suffering from incomplete spinal cord injuries, the prognosis often varies. Victims with a mild injury usually have the most positive prognosis. They will likely make a complete recovery. Moderate spinal cord injuries, however, may take longer to heal. Some loss of sensation and movement may be permanent as well. Furthermore, for victims who have suffered a complete spinal cord injury, the prognosis is less positive. Although victims often survive complete these injuries, the likelihood of regaining feeling is slim.

Recovering from a Spinal Cord Injury

There are many studies aiming to help people living with spinal cord injuries find relief. However, there is currently no cure for these injuries – especially complete spinal cord injuries.

Furthermore, incomplete spinal cord injuries may have some ability to recover, however. Although it is impossible to know how long recovery will take, or if it is even possible for individual victims. For some victims of incomplete spinal cord injuries it can take years to completely recover.

Treatment for a Spinal Cord Injury

Though there are currently experimental treatments, there is no way to cure a spinal cord injury with medicine. While some medications may help victims of mild injuries feel better, those medications or treatments are unlikely to help victims regain full function. Some surgeries can help the spinal cord to regain function by restoring the normal state of the spinal cord. However, this will not restore full function. Furthermore, light bruising of the spinal cord that led to temporary paralysis will eventually go away.  Although this is usually with the help of physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatories.

Spinal Cord Injuries Can Be Life Changing

Victims of complete spinal cord injuries can have their lives change in an instant. Most victims lose the use of their legs. These individuals may also lose feeling and control over their entire trunk area and the corresponding organs.

These types of injuries make it nearly impossible to maintain a full time job as well. For victims who were the sole or primary wage earner in a family, this can be devastating.  It can also have negative emotional, mental, and financial effects for the family.

If you or a loved one are suffering from a spinal cord injury, contact Premier Law Group.  Our Seattle personal injury attorneys can help you navigate your situation and get you the compensation you deserve. Call 206.285.1743 today to start your free case review. Also, click here to read about how we have helped our past clients.

Safety and Preventing a Spinal Cord Injury

Although you can never totally remove risks, the best ways to reduce the risk of suffering a spinal cord injury include:

  • Driving safely
  • Not diving into shallow water
  • Not rough-housing
  • Playing sports with safety in mind
  • Always watching out for hazards
Jason Epstein and Patrick Kang, expert auto accident lawyers in Seattle

If you or someone you love has sustained a spinal cord injury due to the actions of someone else, you’re going to need help from a skilled Seattle injury attorney. At Premier Law Group, we know the frustration that comes with these injuries. We can help you hold the negligent party responsible for your injuries and financial troubles.

For help with your spinal cord injuries and finding ways to enjoy life again contact the Seattle personal injury attorneys at Premier Law Group. Call 206.285.1743 today to schedule a free case review today. And remember, you do not have to pay a fee unless we win your case.

Facial Injury Attorneys In Seattle

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Seattle Facial Injury Attorneys

Many accidents can lead to a serious facial injury or trauma to the face. However your injury accident was caused, it’s important to protect your legal rights. A facial injury could have victims suffering for years, decades, or even the rest of their lives. The treatment alone for injuries to a person’s face is often expensive. Additionally, the costs of long-term medical care or plastic surgery can threaten an injured victim’s finances in the long run as well.

However, hiring a personal injury attorney can help injury victims.  They can help to recover full and fair compensation for any injuries.  They can help get payment for medical bills, lost wages, and future treatment as well. The experienced Seattle personal injury attorneys at Premier Law Group have represented victims involved in many types of accidents. They can also help you learn more about your legal rights and options.

Call 206.285.1743 today to speak with one of our attorneys and begin your free case review.

Common Types of Facial Injuries

Facial injuries are some of the more serious injuries seen in accident victims. Trauma from these injuries can also result in permanent scarring and disfigurement.  These injuries can require multiple surgeries, scar revision treatments or prosthetics. Many victims also suffer from a lasting or permanent change in their looks. Common facial injuries include:

Such injuries can also permanently alter vision and speech of victims. That is why it is very important to get the proper treatment for facial injuries. Treatment for these injuries can include emergency care, acute treatment, long-term repair, physical therapy, or custom prosthetics. It is also important to find doctors and surgeons who are well-trained in the treatment needed for such injuries. However, these treatments can be quite costly.

Depending on how severe the injuries are, you may need multiple surgeries, stitches, repair procedures, scar reduction, or skin grafts. Severe face injuries may also need pins or plates to be inserted to stabilize the bones of the face.

Causes of Facial Injuries

There are many ways in which a facial injury can occur. They may be the result of the following.

If you are suffering from injuries to your face due to an accident, you need legal help. The injury attorneys at Premier Law Group can help you. Call 206.285.1743 today and speak directly with them about your case.

Facial Injuries from a Dog Bite

When a dog attacks, it is common for victims to suffer injuries around the face and neck area. These are some of the most at risk parts of the body. They are typically the most traumatic injuries resulting from a dog bite attack as well.  Dogs often target the face, which can scar easily and is also quite visible to others. This makes it perhaps one of the most physically and emotionally devastating injuries someone can suffer following a dog attack.

Furthermore, in addition to the physical pain, dog bite victims with facial injuries often deal with reminders of the attack. That emotional pain returns every time a victim looks in the mirror or meets someone in public. Any plastic surgery and resulting scars act as a lifelong reminder of the attack.

Emotional & Mental Impact of Facial Trauma

Injuries to the face can cause a great deal of emotional trauma as well. This can affect a person’s self confidence and their ability to socialize comfortably. Victims of facial trauma often need treatment for their mental state in addition to the physical treatment they receive for their injuries. The mental effect of an injury can be short-term or long-term as well, depending on the case and the victim’s personality.

Furthermore, common signs and symptoms of psychological trauma after a face injury include:

  • Mood swings: Victims of facial injuries may experience depression or feel anxious, angry, or irritable.
  • Social avoidance: Because of facial injuries, victims may withdraw from social situations, and even friends and family as well.
  • Lack of focus: A common effect of a facial injury is feeling numb or an overall lack of motivation.
  • Drug abuse: Traumatic experiences in general and the resulting treatment can also lead a victim to abuse drugs or alcohol. Painful facial injuries can result in a victim abusing painkillers as well.

Damages For Facial Injuries

Your personal injury attorney should be aware of all of the potential damages in your injury case. While some damages, such as medical bills, might be obvious, others are not. That’s why you need an experienced attorney, to help maximize your claim and put the most money back in your pocket.

Damages in a facial injury case can include the following.

  • Medical Expenses
  • Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
  • Loss of Essential Services
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Loss of Affection or Consortium or Quality of Life
  • Property Damage
  • Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Seattle Personal Injury Lawyers at Premier Law Group

Best auto accident lawyers in Seattle Renton Bellevue and Federal WayVictims of a facial injury almost always need the help of an attorney to get the full and fair financial compensation they deserve. This assistance can also help pay for the specific treatment a victim may need.

The attorneys at Premier Law Group have experience working with victims who suffer from major injuries. We understand how to offer legal aid in a way that is sensitive to the special emotional needs of facial injury victims.

If you or a loved one has injuries, disfigurement, or scars from an accident in Seattle or anywhere in Washington state, contact Premier Law Group. We will help protect the health, emotional well being, and finances of you or your loved ones.

Contact Premier Law Group to schedule a free case review of your facial injury case today. Call 206.285.1743.  And as always, there is no fee unless we win your case.

Eye Injury and Vision Loss Attorneys in Seattle

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Legal Aid Following an Eye Injury or Vision Loss

Many people take their vision for granted. We don’t think about how fortunate we are to be able to see.  However, an eye injury can result in partial vision loss or complete blindness.  It can also lead to a long, painful recovery, which could negatively impact your life. It could also leave you unable to work if you can’t perform the tasks needed for your job any longer.

If someone has caused you a serious eye injury, then you deserve compensation. Eye injuries are expensive, and not only because of medical bills. Without vision, you may need to switch careers, modify your home, or even work with an aide who can help you in your day-to-day life. You should not have to shoulder this financial burden alone, especially if your accident was someone else’s fault.

Contact one of the qualified Seattle personal injury attorneys at Premier Law Group today. Call 206.285.1743 to get started on your FREE case review.

Causes of Eye Injuries

Although some diseases can result in partial or total blindness, accidents are far more likely to cause eye injuries and vision loss. Because your eyes are so delicate, and always exposed, any trauma to the eye, or to the brain, can result in serious injury. Vision loss is very common following a severe injury.

Some of the most frequent accidents that lead to these injuries are:

If you are suffering from any of these accidents, then you may be currently suffering from vision loss or damage to your eyes. Although the bills may be costly, it is important to get immediate medical help if you have not already. Nothing is more important than your health, and eye injuries can result in lasting consequences.

Eye Injuries

The human eye has a number of different parts, and all of these parts work together to allow us to see properly. When even one of these components has damage, it can affect the entire eye. Even smaller injuries, such as a scratch to the cornea can lead to more serious complications. For instance, a damaged cornea can leave the entire eye susceptible to infection.

Common Eye Injuries

There are a variety of ways that your vision could suffer. Some of the most common are:

  • Penetrating injuries: These often result from car accidents, and involve something actually entering and damaging the eye. These injuries can result in total blindness as well.
  • Chemical burns to the eye: This type of eye injury is possible at construction sites, workplaces, and even schools. These burns cause redness and burning in the eye, and cause a great deal of pain. They can also damage your vision permanently, depending on the chemical and how long your eye was exposed before flushing out your eye.
  • Traumatic iritis: This is a very common injury to the iris. It is inflammation caused by blunt trauma to the eye. Though the inflammation usually resolves itself, infection is a serious risk and can also permanently damage your vision.
  • Swollen eyelids: Swollen eyelids are a sign of eye damage following an accident. In these cases, the eyes have suffered blunt trauma, and the eyelids have swollen so much that the eyes are practically shut. Swollen eyelids usually heal on their own, but there is always the potential for infection. Other serious conditions could arise as well if the eye does not get proper treatment.

Not all eye injuries are immediately obvious. In fact, one of the most common causes of vision loss is the brain, and is not noticeable to the eye at all. In such a case, your eyes may be operating perfectly, but damage to your brain can leave you with slight or complete vision loss.

Loss of Vision & Brain Injuries

Although injuries directly to your eye can cause vision loss, you can still lose your vision when your eyes are functioning normally. Your eyes are only a part of how you see. They take in light through the pupil. This light is then converted into information. This information then goes through the optic nerve to the occipital lobe, in the back of the brain. The brain finally takes this information and converts it into an image, allowing you to see. The entire process takes milliseconds, however, you sense no delay between what you are seeing and what is actually happening.

Due to the role it plays in your ability to see, if the occipital lobe has damage, then you could lose your sight, partially or completely. On the other hand, if your optic nerve, which runs from your eyes to your brain, has damage, that could also lead to partial or full loss of vision. If you experience a blow to the head, you should seek medical attention right away.  Even if you don’t notice any loss of vision right away. The injury can take time to cause blindness, and any treatment available will be time sensitive.

Premier Law Group Can Help Win You Fair Compensation 

Depending on the injury, eye injuries can cost a lot of money. You may have to wear an eye patch, take medication, have surgery, or undergo therapy. Eye injuries can be life changing. As such, you deserve a personal injury attorney with experience on your case. At Premier Law Group, we care about the satisfaction of our clients. When you call, you will speak directly with an attorney. We will help guide you and provide you with honest answers to any questions you may have.

Furthermore, we will help protect the health, emotional well being, and finances of you or your loved ones.  We will also give you useful resources. At Premier Law Group, we aim to provide everyone who contacts us with the information they need about their legal options.

Contact Premier Law Group to schedule a free case review of your eye injury case today. Call 206.285.1743.  And remember, there is no fee unless we win your case.

Seattle Catastrophic Injury Lawyers

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Seattle Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

serious injuries following an auto accident leads to surgeryThe results of a catastrophic injury can be catastrophic. They can also be hard to predict. A severe accident caused by someone else’s negligence is a serious matter as well. You need the help of experienced serious accident lawyers.

If you or a loved one has been injured, the catastrophic injury lawyers at Premier Law Group can help. We can make home and hospital visits and will go the extra mile for our clients. Our experience and past results make us different from other Seattle serious accident lawyers.

Call 206.285.1743 to speak directly with one of our Seattle personal injury attorneys and start your free case review. If we handle your case, you will pay absolutely no legal fees unless we win.

Two Important Goals to Keep In Mind

Firstly, to increase your chances of a complete recovery, get the best care possible. Secondly, you want to recover the most money possible to pay for all of your damages. To achieve these goals, there are certain steps you should take. Furthermore, your doctor and your Seattle catastrophic injury lawyer can only get the best results with your cooperation.

Common Catastrophic Injuries

Any injury can prove catastrophic, however the most common of these injuries include:

  • Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries are generally caused by a blow to the head, shoulders, or body. They can also be painful and slow to heal. They can also lead to chronic pain, a diminished range of motion, and other permanent issues.
  • Paralysis: Paralysis is the permanent loss of control over bodily motion in an affected area. The physical and emotional effects of such an injury can last a lifetime. Paralysis also often leads to other problems, such as breathing difficulties.
  • Traumatic brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries result from an impact to the head. They also result from severe shaking of the head on the neck as well. These injuries are often serious. The effects of a serious brain injury can include physical, cognitive, and other issues which can persist for a long time.  They can also hinder your ability to work or perform regular activities.
  • Other serious injuries include amputations and severe burns as well.

Common Causes of a Catastrophic Injury

Nearly any kind of accident can lead to a severe injury depending on the severity. The most common accidents that result in a serious injury are:

  • Traffic accidents: These include car, truck, motorcycle, bike, scooter, and pedestrian accidents. They frequently result from driver negligence.
  • Slip and fall accidents: Slip and falls can cause very dangerous injuries—especially from heights. Slip and falls are often the result of negligent business owners. They are also common on the job, especially on construction sites.
  • Accidents caused by defective products: When products are defective, severe injuries can occur. Issues often occur from defective car parts, defective children’s products, and defective appliances.

Damages for Catastrophic Injuries

Surgery roomDevastating injuries often lead to damages that can be hard to assess. The damages that often apply include the following.

  • Medical costs – These costs can include:
    • emergency care
    • emergency transportation
    • surgeries
    • treatment from doctors and specialists
    • physical therapy
    • medications
    • at home care, and more.
  • Lost wages – A severe injury is likely to result in lower work capacity or not being able to return to work.
  • Pain and suffering – Serious injuries are typically very painful, which can take a toll on your mental health. The trauma of the accident itself can also lead to mental struggles such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

The damages resulting from these injuries typically include large bills. If you didn’t cause the accident, you should not have to pay these costs. The catastrophic injury lawyers at Premier Law Group can help you recover full and fair compensation to help cover these costs.

What To Do After Catastrophic Accident

Report Physical Complaints

When you visit a doctor, be thorough. One challenge of a severe injury is that memory is often impaired or the ability to communicate is limited. As such, record every detail, even if it does not seem important.

Preserve Evidence

Be sure to get photos of wounds, lacerations, bruises, and any other physical proof of your injuries. Get photographs of the accident scene as well. Once the scene is cleaned up, most evidence will be lost.

Gather Witnesses

Independent witnesses are important for proving that you aren’t at fault for your own accident. Get any names, addresses, and phone numbers of witnesses that you can. Being able to prove with independent witnesses that an accident happened the way you claim it did can help you win your case.

Keep a Journal

Between the day of your accident and the time that you fully recover or your case goes to trial, you may forget important details. If your loved one’s injury keeps them from being able to journal, keep a journal from your perspective. Write down daily experiences, restrictions, and pain. That will help to convey any injuries to the jury or whoever you are settling your case with.

Continue Treatment

If you stop going to the doctor for any reason, a jury will assume you were feeling fine and didn’t need treatment. It will also take longer for you to recover from your injuries and destroy your case. Consistent treatment proves your ongoing pain and suffering. You should see a doctor as long as your symptoms last.

See A Doctor

There are a variety of issues that can result from a catastrophic injury. You should see the right doctor for your injuries. The following guide can be helpful as a reference.

  • Neurologist: Visit a neurologist for severe headaches, dizziness and vertigo, numbness, paralysis, loss of motion and/or feeling, memory loss, loss of awareness, or changes in cognitive functioning.
  • Orthopedist: Injuries to the spine, neck and back pain, pain or discomfort in the shoulder, as well as broken bones usually require visiting an orthopedist.
  • Psychologist / Psychiatrist: See a psychologist or psychiatrist for anxiety, depression, withdrawal or other mood-related symptoms.
  • Physical Therapist / Chiropractor: Those with muscle, tendon, and ligament injuries will benefit from physical therapy or chiropractic treatment.

There are many other specialists as well that have not been listed.  They may also be suited to help treat your injury.  Furthermore, you should not undergo any needless treatment. Doing this can weaken your injury claim.

How Premier Law Group’s Catastrophic Injury Attorneys Can Help

Experienced Seattle attorney Patrick Kang helping a clientFirstly, we will help you decide whether you need a Seattle catastrophic injury attorney, at all. If you can settle your case on your own, our free book can help provide the guidance you need to do so. For more complex cases, you will still want our Seattle or Bellevue catastrophic injury lawyers to get the best settlement possible.

Our catastrophic injury attorneys will also give you our Triple Guarantee:

  1. When you contact us, you’ll speak directly with an attorney – not just an intake specialist. We’ll also be upfront about whether you even need an attorney to settle your claim.
  2. We’ll provide a “premier” client experience. Don’t just take our word for it.  Read what our previous clients have to say here.
  3. You don’t have to pay a cent unless we win your case. That’s our zero-fee guarantee.

Furthermore, you may not know about any permanent damage until weeks following your injury. In this time, insurance companies can pressure you to settle before you know the extent of your accident. That’s wrong, and we will stand up for you. At Premier Law Group, we will:

  • Listen to your needs, questions, and concerns
  • Handle legal issues while you focus on recovery
  • Deal with insurance companies
  • Order medical records and bills related to your injuries
  • Walk you through the litigation process
  • Follow up with you so you know how your case is going

Contact a Seattle Serious Injury Attorney as Soon as Possible

If you are suffering from a severe injury due to the negligent actions of another person, you will likely need financial and other assistance. The Seattle personal injury lawyers at Premier Law Group will help you through recovery. We will fight to help you get the best care possible.

Call 206.285.1743 today to speak with one of our attorneys and begin your FREE case review.

Back and Neck Injury Attorneys in Seattle

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Have You Suffered a Back or Neck Injury Accident?

Bellevue Spinal Cord AttorneysFact:  every year over 800,000 car crashes in the United States cause crash victims to have serious neck and back injuries.  A back and neck injury is the leading cause of permanent disability.

As you can imagine, these injuries also result in huge financial burdens on accident victims and their families.  Medical providers have to be paid or they stop providing their services.  If your accident was caused by another person’s negligence, you need an experienced personal injury attorney. In fact, you need a personal injury attorney who specializes in back and neck injury settlements.

Premier Law Group can help!

We care about our clients.  We skillfully investigate your accident and specialize in determining negligence and fault.  In fact, we have a “no fee, free consultation” process.  Let us review your case, and if you choose us, we go to work to negotiate a fair settlement.  This frees you up to focus on getting well.  

Call Premier Law Group today at 206.285.1743 for a Free Consultation!

Common Types of Neck Injuries

Human necks are fragile.  They’re composed of many “essential” working parts.  For example, there are vertebra, spinal cord, nerves, blood vessels, muscles, ligaments and tendons.

At the top spinal column.  These bones have one job:  to protect the nerves in the spinal cord.  The vertebra are cushioned by soft tissue including muscles, ligaments, and tendons.

All neck injuries are serious!  Get medical care immediately if you suffer a neck injury in an accident.  The most common injuries to the neck include the following:

  • Whiplash:  Whiplash happens when an accident victim’s head is forcefully thrown backward and then forward in a snapping motion, well beyond the normal range of motion.
  • Neck Sprains:   Neck sprains are very painful.  Every time the accident victim moves, turns, or rotates their head or neck, pain shocks course down their bodies.
  • Neck Fractures:  Neck fractures are found by medical professionals using x-rays.  These injuries cause difficulty and/or inability to move your arms and legs.

Common Types of Back Injuries

Back injuries cause intense pain, an inability to concentrate and work, and worry for accident victims and their families.  Some of the most common back injuries include:  

  • Fractured Vertebrae
    Fractured vertebrae are caused by high-velocity accidents. These include suffering a fall from a significant height; or being in a high-speed car crash; or sports injuries.  With this kind of injury, back pain actually worsens with movement.  If the spinal cord has been injured, the accident victim can lose bowel and bladder control and experience numbness, weakness, or tingling.
  • Sprains and Strains
    “Back sprain” and “back strain” are medical terms referring to stretched or torn ligaments. Both injuries cause a lot of pain.  Injury symptoms include muscle spasms, constant pain, swelling and difficulty moving.  Sometimes these injuries swell so much that joints cannot move.
  • Herniated Disks
    The cushions in the spinal column vertebrae are soft cartilage disks. Their job is to keep the vertebrae in place, help in movement and protect the spinal cord. When a disk ruptures or slips out of place, you call this a “herniated disk.”  Herniated disks cause a range of symptoms, depending on the location of the disk herniation.  For example, an injury to the lower back causes:   tingling, numbness, back pain that radiates through the legs and buttocks.  A herniated disk in the upper vertebrae causes muscle spasms, and neck pain that spreads through the upper arms and shoulders.

Causes of Common Neck and Back Injuries in the USA Today

The most common cause of back and neck injuries in our nation is motor vehicle crashes.  There are far more vehicles of all types and sizes traveling our roads and byways.  Motor vehicle weight coupled with high rates of speed alone account for serious life-changing accidents.

Car crash victims with back and neck injuries do suffer spinal damage that results in paralysis.   In a major crash, serious back and neck injuries leave victims with quadriplegia – unable to move their bodies at all.

Spinal Cord Injury Statistics and Types

National Spinal Cord Injury Statistics Center logoAccording to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistics Center (NSCISC), motor vehicle accidents cause 36.5% of all new spinal cord injury cases.  In fact, every year, there are between 12,000 to 15,000 serious spinal cord injuries.  Of these, 10,000 people are permanently paralyzed.

Even worse is the fact that many accident victims die as a result of their spinal cord injuries.  Further, most spinal cord injury accidents involve young, healthy males between the ages of 15 and 35.

Spinal cord injuries are classified by the “level” of the injury, and by the “type” of physical injury.  The vertebra are sub-divided into sections called “levels” because certain vertebra injuries have worse injuries than others.   Depending on which level is injured, the type refers to the physical disability the accident victim is left with, post-accident.

In brief:  the higher up the injury occurs on the spinal cord, the greater the side effects and physical disabilities.   The spinal cord levels are as follows:

  • High Cervical Nerves (C1-C4). These vertebrae are closest to the brain. When these receive damage, the accident victim suffers the most serious side effects associated with spinal cord injuries. This includes total paraplegia.
  • Low Cervical Nerves (C5-C8). The next set down are vertebrae whose injuries also have life-altering side effects such as partial paralysis.
  • Thoracic Vertebrae (T1-T12). The third level vertebrae controls a person’s body stability.  They allow a person to sit and stand upright, and support all the organs in the upper torso.  Damage to this part of the spine produces serious life-long issues, but not paralysis.
  • Lumbar Nerves (L1-L5). People with lumbar area spinal injuries suffer compromised strength and inability to lift, bend, twist, and turn.
  • Sacral Nerves (S1-S5). Injuries to the sacral region of the spine are serious, but do not cause paralysis.

Complete and Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

Further, spinal cord injuries are classified by medical personnel as “Complete” or “Incomplete,” reliant on the side effects that the injury causes.  The side effects vary greatly between these two categories, as follows:

  • Complete:  A person with a complete spinal cord injury has an injury that impacts the whole width of the spine in the specific damaged region.  The accident victim has no muscle control or sensation beneath the damaged area of the spine.
  • Incomplete:  An incomplete spinal cord injury does not affect the entire width of the specific damaged spinal area.  In fact, there is no affect on parts of the spine and they’re able to function as normal.  However, spinal cord victims with incomplete injuries may still have serious limitations.  In some cases, a person can have more limitations on one side of the body than the other.  In truth, incomplete injury impacts vary widely from person to person.

It is important to note that a person can “break their back or neck” and not sustain a spinal cord injury.  This only happens if the bones around the spinal cord (the vertebrae) have damage, but the spinal cord cushions (disks) don’t have damage.   In these situations, the individual may not experience paralysis after the bones stabilize.

Spinal Cord Injury Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Improvement

It’s essential that spinal cord accident victims get immediate medical care.  The sooner you diagnose your injuries and start getting treatments, the better opportunity to reduce long-term disability.

Most treatment plans used by today’s doctors include the following:

  • Medication – Steroids including dexamethasone or methylprednisolone to reduce spinal cord swelling.  The goal is to prevent total destruction of the spinal nerves that cause paralysis.  Steroids should begin as soon as possible after the injury.
  • Surgery – Accidents involving the C1-C8 levels usually require one or more surgeries to treat the affected area.  One surgery is decompression laminectomy, to remove fluid or tissue that is pressing on the spinal cord.  Also, doctors remove bone/disc fragments, other foreign objects, and they insert hardware to stabilize a fractured vertebrae.
  • Bed Rest – Bed rest helps the affected area of the spine to heal itself.   The spine bears the majority of a person’s body weight.  Therefore, it’s essential to give the spine some bed rest, rather than putting it under duress of the body’s full weight.
  • Traction/Immobilization – A variety of different spinal traction devices are used to immobilize the spine and reduce dislocation.  For example, the skull can become immobile with tongs (metal braces placed in the skull and attached to traction weights or to a harness on the body).
  •  Physical Therapy/Rehabilitation — Most spinal cord injury victims need extensive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other rehabilitation treatments.  This can be immediately after the injury has healed and into the future.

Why Should I Hire Premier Law Group Back and Neck Injury Attorney?

Jason Epstein and Patrick Kang, expert auto accident lawyers in SeattleOur Seattle personal injury attorneys have firsthand experience, helping those with back and neck injuries caused by other people’s negligence.  Our attorneys are specialists.  We will give you and your family one-on-one attention.  Call us for a free consultation!  There’s no fee until we succeed in getting just compensation for you.  That’s our goal:  get you fair compensation from the people who caused your injuries.

Don’t sign off on an insurance claim until you talk with us.  Focus on healing, and let your lawyer collect evidence and handle the claim details.

Contact an Expert Seattle Personal Injury Attorney!

Call Premier Law Group!  Get your FREE Consultation Today!

You always work directly with an attorney and we are available to you 24/7.

Call 206.285.1743 Today! 

Open Head Injury Lawyers In Seattle

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What You Should Know About a Penetrating Brain Injury

open head injury attorneys in Seattle Bellevue Federal Way and RentonOpen head injuries are serious forms of brain injury trauma.  They usually require immediate hospitalization and surgery.  Common open head injuries include concussions, skull fractures, and scalp wounds. Depending on the type of head injury you have and its severity, both the treatments and the consequences vary greatly. Open (penetrating) head injuries literally break open your scalp and skull.  These injuries expose the brain to bacteria, viruses and many other environmental elements that cause serious brain damage. Have you or a loved one experienced an open head injury?  Did you lose someone you love in a penetrating brain accident?  Are you dealing with horrendous medical bills?  And rightly scared for your future?

Let Premier Law Group help!

Our attorneys have firsthand knowledge and experience with the devastating personal injuries caused by these open head injuries.  We have worked alongside many victims and their families, to help them recover financial damages due to open head injuries.

That’s all we do!  We negotiate for you, while you focus on regaining your life.

Call Premier Law Group today at 206.285.1743 for a FREE Consultation!

What Is An Open Head Injury?

By definition, an open head injury literally fractures the skull.  Sometimes this is called a broken skull because the skull cracks due to a sudden blow. In other cases, an object punctures and penetrates the skull.

There are many health impacts and complications caused by open head injury accidents.  Some happen immediately following the injury.  These include seizures, loss of brain fluid, and ringing in the ear.  Other more serious impacts include nerve injuries, organ failure, and even death.

How Do Open Head Injuries Happen?

Open head injuries are caused by blunt trauma to the head.  The most common causes of open head injuries include:

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents
  • Slipping and Falling
  • Knife and Gunshot Wounds
  • Military Attacks and Bomb Blasts
  • Sports Related Accidents

How Common Are Open Head Injuries?

Open head injuries are one of the most common causes of disability and death in the United States.  In fact, head injuries in general are rising dramatically in our country.  In 2020, for example, 1.7 million people experienced a traumatic brain injury.

It is important that people recognize the seriousness of these injuries and take immediate action to help open head injury victims.

What Are The Symptoms?

diagnosing a open head injury in Seattle Bellevue or Federal WayVictims of open head injuries display many different symptoms.  A lot depends on if the open head injury is a penetrating wound or fracture.

Following are the most common symptoms of an open head injury:

  • Blood coming from the head
  • Unconsciousness or non-responsiveness
  • Inability to move extremities — one, two, three, or all four arms and legs
  • Loss of motor functions
  • Unequal pupil sizes
  • Black outs and confusion
  • Vomiting spells and nausea
  • Inexplicable fatigue and inability to stay awake
  • Severe, incurable headaches
  • Persistent stiffness in the neck
  • Abnormal behaviors and speech patterns

It’s important to note that accident eyewitnesses don’t always understand that the victim has suffered an open head injury.   Especially if the head wound isn’t bleeding, or the victim is unconscious and not moving.

No matter what, it is essential that the injury victim get immediate medical care.  The sooner the injury is discovered, the sooner the victim can get medical care.  And the family can move forward on necessary decisions and choices as the victim recovers.

How Do Doctors Diagnose An Open Head Injury?

There is a clear process that doctors use with victims of open head injuries.  First, they do a basic physical exam.  Then they talk with the victim’s family and other eyewitnesses to learn more about the origin of the accident.  This becomes extremely critical if the victim is unconscious and cannot speak to the doctor.

Next, the doctor will perform a CT scan, an MRI, and other x-rays, specifically to looking for neck, spinal cord and skull injuries.  These tests will show if the victim has suffered a skull fracture.

Treatment For Open Head Injuries

Each open head injury is unique and because the cause of the accident varies and the condition of each accident victim is different.  Therefore, the treatment plan depends on the injury cause, and the severity of the injury.

Open head injuries always require surgery to repair skull damage.  A major part of the surgery is searching for evidence of brain damage.  And the search for and removal of any debris that made its way into the skull cavity.  Brain debris has serious implications for open head injury victims.  For instance, debris can puncture the brain, introduce infection and cause inflammation.

The healing process for open head injury victims is long and arduous.  It almost always requires extensive rehabilitation to get the body to relearn basic skills.  Brain injuries cause neurons to misfire and new connections have to be made.  With rehab, victims can relearn how to walk, comb their hair, brush their teeth, speak and write.

Complications Brought On By Open Head Injuries

best brain injury lawyers in Seattle Bellevue Federal Way and RentonOpen head injury victims expose the brain to dangerous environmental elements.  The open wound in the skull lets in bacteria, viruses, molds, and debris.  These “infect” the brain and lead to serious health issues, either immediately or down the road.

Also, open head injuries do cause unconsciousness and coma.  This can last hours, days, weeks, months, or even years.  Sadly, some victims go into coma after an open head injury and never fully regain consciousness.

Why You Might Need An Attorney

Open head injuries are frightening and frustrating for victims and their families.  When you or someone you love has sustained open head injuries, it is hard to know what to do, who to trust, and who to talk to.   There are many compelling reasons to find an expert personal injury attorney to help.

For instance, if the open head injury victim was:

  • Injured through the negligence of someone else
  • By someone with no insurance
  • Injured and the insurance claims people are denying your claims
  • Injured at a business whose insurer wants you to sign off on a settlement that does not cover your damages, medical costs and loss of work.

Where To Get Help After An Open Head Injury

The Premier Law Group Difference!

As your “difference maker,” you always work with YOUR ATTORNEY — not just a paralegal.  We are available 24/7 to answer your questions, and support you through the most difficult time of your lives.  No family should go through this without an attorney by your side.

Our experienced Seattle personal injury attorneys know how to collect the evidence from your open head injury.   For example, your attorney will:

  • Collect Police Reports
  • Interview Eyewitnesses
  • Secure Video and Photos of the Accident
  • And all other records pertinent to your open head injury

From this fact-finding, your attorney builds your case and files claims for compensation.  Furthermore, we negotiate FOR YOU and your loved ones.

Don’t sign off on an insurance claim until you talk with us.  Focus on healing, and let your lawyer collect evidence and handle the claim details.

Contact a Dedicated Seattle Open Head Injury Attorney!

Best auto accident lawyers in Seattle Bellevue and Federal WayCall Premier Law GroupGet your FREE Consultation Today!

You always work directly with an attorney and we are available to you 24/7.  

Call 206.285.1743 Today!