Spring provides a near perfect time to get out and go for a walk after being cooped up inside for a good part of winter. Fresh air and mild temperatures inspire many Colorado residents to do just that. Unfortunately, walking also tends to present a significant danger when motor vehicle traffic is nearby. For those who survive auto vs. pedestrian accidents, the risk of suffering debilitating and serious injuries is more of a given than not.
One type of potential injury is a spinal cord injury. The impact of a vehicle or even the fall after being struck can provide enough force to cause this injury. Medical intervention is vital when it comes to these injuries. The types of treatment a victim receives depends on the location of the injury and whether it is complete or incomplete.
A complete spinal cord injury means the patient does not respond to any stimuli below the level of injury. An incomplete injury means that there is some response to stimuli and feeling below the point of injury. The higher up the spine the injury occurs, the more concerning the situation becomes. For example, an injury in the cervical portion of the spine, which is at the neck area, the greater the concern is for the patient’s ability to breath on his or her own.
The lucky victims of pedestrian accidents who suffer spinal cord injuries make a full recovery once the swelling and bruising goes down. Others may not be so lucky and could face a lifetime of issues, including permanent paralysis. No matter the situation, victims could need medical and other care for months, years or the rest of their lives. The financial stresses do nothing to help the situation, so filing a personal injury claim in a Colorado civil court could be the appropriate course of action in order to pursue restitution from the party deemed at fault.