The spinal cord is a critical central nervous system component that transmits messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to this vital structure can result in partial or complete loss of motor control and sensation below the injury site.
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, approximately 17,730 new SCI cases occur each year in the United States, with motor vehicle accidents accounting for 38% of these injuries.
In Fishers and throughout Indiana, SCIs often result from:
Spinal cord injuries are not only physically debilitating—they also bring lasting emotional and financial hardship. We’ve seen firsthand how these injuries can transform a vibrant, independent life into one marked by ongoing medical care, mobility limitations, and the need for daily assistance.
Victims often face partial or complete paralysis. Quadriplegia (affecting all limbs) and paraplegia (affecting the lower half of the body) are common outcomes. For many, that means lifelong reliance on caregivers or assistive devices. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation estimates that the average yearly health care and living expenses for someone with high tetraplegia can exceed $1 million in the first year alone, with subsequent annual costs near $185,000. (christopherreeve.org).
Those numbers don’t include lost wages or diminished future earnings. That’s why our job as your Fishers spine injury attorney isn’t just to pursue compensation—it’s to demand the full value of everything your injury has cost you and your family.
Victims of spinal cord injuries in Indiana have the right to seek compensation if another’s negligence caused their injury. This compensation can cover:
It’s important to note that Indiana follows a modified comparative fault system. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault for the incident leading to your injury, you may be barred from recovering damages.
To win a spinal cord injury case, we need to demonstrate that another party’s negligence caused the accident that resulted in your injuries. Depending on the circumstances, that might involve a negligent driver, a property owner who failed to correct a hazard, or even a defective product manufacturer.
We use evidence like:
As a personal injury lawyer in Fishers, IN, we often work with life care planners and economists to present a detailed picture of what you’ll need in the future—from surgeries and rehab to specialized transportation and home renovations.
Indiana’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims
In Indiana, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in losing your right to seek compensation.
Navigating the legal complexities of an SCI case requires specialized knowledge and experience. As Fishers spine injury attorneys, we provide:
Indiana is committed to advancing SCI research and patient care through initiatives like the Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Fund. Established to support research for the prevention, treatment, and cure of traumatic spinal cord and brain injuries, this fund underscores the state’s dedication to improving outcomes for SCI patients.
Every case is different, but complex injury cases like these often take months or even years. We begin with investigation and evidence gathering, then move to settlement negotiations. We’re prepared to take your case to trial if we can’t reach a fair agreement.
No. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront legal fees.
Yes. If a property owner failed to maintain a safe environment and that negligence led to your injury, they can be held liable. This applies to homes, businesses, and public spaces.
Indiana follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can still recover damages if you’re 50% or less at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault.
If you’ve lost a loved one due to complications from a spinal cord injury caused by someone else’s negligence, we can help you file a wrongful death claim. This can help recover costs like funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.
A spinal cord injury doesn’t just affect the individual—it impacts the entire family. We often work closely with spouses, parents, and children of victims to understand the day-to-day challenges they face. Whether it’s helping them find accessible housing, connect with rehab programs, or file for disability benefits, we’re here as legal advocates and community allies.
We also refer our clients to support groups and state resources, such as the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA), which provides long-term services and support for people with physical disabilities.
We know how overwhelming it can be to even think about calling a lawyer when you’re dealing with a spinal cord injury. But getting strong legal support early on can make a huge difference in how your case unfolds. Insurance companies often try to pressure victims into quick settlements, but these offers rarely consider the full scope of what lies ahead.
When you contact us, you won’t get a sales pitch—you’ll get an honest conversation about your rights, your options, and how we can help. We take pride in being the type of injury lawyers in Fishers who listens first and fights second. Every case starts with a free consultation, and you’re never under any obligation to move forward.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Fishers, don’t wait. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start protecting your rights and building a case for the compensation you deserve.
We invite you to contact us today for a free consultation. Let us be your advocate, guide, and voice in a system that too often overlooks those who need help the most. With Vaughn Wamsley as your Fishers spine injury attorney, you’ll never have to face this fight alone.
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