Paralysis Injury Lawyer in Massachusetts

Paralysis Injuries From Accidents in Massachusetts

Traumatic paralysis, whether paraplegia (loss of function in the lower body) or quadriplegia/tetraplegia (loss of function in all four limbs), results from spinal cord injuries typically caused by high-energy trauma: motor vehicle accidents at speed, falls from significant height, diving accidents, motorcycle crashes, and serious workplace incidents. No injury category demands more from a personal injury claim than paralysis, because the lifetime consequences are total and the financial needs are extraordinary. Attorney Jeffrey C. Lavey represents paralysis victims and their families throughout Massachusetts.

The Lifetime Cost of Traumatic Paralysis

The lifetime cost of living with traumatic paralysis is among the highest of any injury category. A young adult who sustains a complete spinal cord injury will need: a specialized wheelchair (power wheelchairs can cost tens of thousands of dollars and require replacement every several years); accessible housing modifications; accessible transportation; 24-hour attendant care if injury is at a high level; regular physician and specialist care; treatment for the secondary complications of spinal cord injury including pressure sores, respiratory infections, and urinary tract infections; psychological care; and vocational rehabilitation services. A comprehensive life care plan documents these costs over the victim’s lifetime. Attorney Lavey works with the best life care planners available in every paralysis case.

Who Is Liable for Paralysis Injuries

The identity of the responsible party depends on how the spinal cord injury occurred. Vehicle accidents create claims against negligent drivers and in some cases vehicle manufacturers for defective safety systems. Falls from height in workplace settings create workers' compensation claims and potentially third-party claims against general contractors, property owners, and equipment manufacturers. Diving accident paralysis may create claims against pool operators for inadequate depth markings. Sports facility operators may be liable when inadequate supervision or unsafe conditions contribute to a paralysis injury. Attorney Lavey investigates every potential responsible party in every paralysis case.

Building the Expert Team

Paralysis injury cases require the most comprehensive expert team in any area of personal injury law. A spinal cord medicine physician documents the injury, its neurological effects, and the anticipated medical needs. A life care planner projects every anticipated cost over the victim’s lifetime. A vocational rehabilitation expert assesses the impact on earning capacity. An economist calculates the present value of all future losses. An architect or accessibility consultant documents necessary home modifications. Attorney Lavey coordinates this expert team in every paralysis case and ensures the full damages picture is built.

Pursuing Maximum Compensation

In paralysis cases, the gap between inadequate and adequate compensation can determine whether the injured person lives with dignity and appropriate support or with avoidable deprivation. Attorney Lavey does not settle paralysis cases until the full lifetime damages picture is accurately documented and until any settlement reflects that full value. He advises paralysis clients and their families on the long-term implications of every settlement offer and pursues trial when settlement does not reflect full compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions