Spine injuries are among the most severe and life-altering injuries one can suffer. They can lead to significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges, including chronic pain, loss of mobility, and long-term care needs. We understand the challenges you face and are here to provide the legal expertise and support you need to navigate this difficult time.
We have represented clients suffering from spinal fractures, broken vertebrae, herniated discs, compressed spinal cords, and paralysis. At the Hulburt Law firm, we have a proven track record of successfully handling spine injury cases, securing substantial compensation for our clients. From investigation and evidence gathering to negotiation and litigation, we handle every aspect of your case.
Approximately 18,000 new traumatic spinal cord injuries occur each year in the USA.*
Throughout the process, we keep you informed, answer any questions you may have, and provide ongoing support. We limit the number of cases we take on so that we can dedicate the time and attention needed for each case.
With the Hulburt Law Firm by your side, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your legal claims are being taken care of. If you or a loved one has been involved in a spine injury accident, contact us today for a free case review.
Our attorneys have a proven track record of achieving extraordinary results.
A freeway collision resulted in brain and spine injuries.
A seatback collapsed in a rear-end collision, causing the occupant life-changing injuries.
A negligent driver struck a cyclist, who suffered a severe spine injury.
During your free case review, we listen to your story, collect preliminary information, and provide an honest evaluation of your case’s strengths and potential challenges.
Once the scope of work is signed, our team gets to work conducting a thorough investigation to build a strong foundation for your case by examining the accident scene, reviewing medical records and other documents, and interviewing witnesses.
To strengthen your case, our firm collaborates with experts, including accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and economists in order to recreate the accident scenario, provide detailed assessments of your injuries and necessary treatments, and calculate the full extent of your financial losses.
Often there are multiple parties who may be liable for your injuries. We meticulously analyze the facts of your case to identify all potential defendants, including employers and contractors, subcontractors, property owners, equipment and material manufacturers, and third-party vendors.
Our goal is to ensure you receive full and fair compensation for all your losses. We thoroughly assess the damages you have suffered, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and loss of consortium (compensation for the impact of your injuries on your relationship with your spouse or family).
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we take your case to court. Our trial attorneys have extensive courtroom experience and are skilled at telling your story, presenting evidence and expert testimony, cross-examining witnesses, and making compelling arguments to the judge and jury.
California law provides legal avenues for spine injury victims to seek compensation for their injuries when they result from another party’s negligence or wrongful actions. See several key points below:
Spine injuries can vary in severity and type, including:
Negligence: Most spine injury claims are based on negligence. To establish negligence, the plaintiff must prove:
Product Liability: If the spine injury was caused by a defective product, the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be held liable under product liability laws.
Premises Liability: Property owners may be held liable if a hazardous condition on their property caused the spine injury.
Medical Malpractice: Healthcare providers may be liable for spine injuries resulting from substandard care, such as surgical errors or misdiagnoses.
Victims of spine injuries in California may be entitled to compensation for:
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a spine injury lawsuit generally depends on the type of case:
California follows a "pure comparative fault" rule. This means that even if the injured party is partially at fault for their injury, they can still recover damages. However, the compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if the plaintiff is found to be 30% at fault, their compensation will be reduced by 30%.
Given the complexity of these cases and the significant impact spine injuries can have, it is crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced spine injury attorney who can navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights.
Forget surface-level research and mediocre inquiries. We dive deep to conduct extensive investigations and gather evidence in order to build your strongest case.
We use technology to your advantage. By using video and photography, scene recreations, and graphics, we tell your story in a visually-compelling way that other law firms cannot match.
Defense attorneys and insurance companies know us and respect us. We assess the full extent of your damages and pursue all responsible parties in order to maximize the compensation you deserve.
Catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases are rarely simple. We have taken on the largest corporations, insurance companies, and defense firms in the country and won.
We understand how important it is to have a compassionate and considerate lawyer. From providing regular case updates to ensuring clients are adequately prepared for each step of the case, we continually demonstrate our care for all of our clients.
A spine injury refers to any damage to the spinal cord or the vertebrae, discs, or surrounding tissues in the spine. Spine injuries can range from herniated discs and fractures to severe spinal cord injuries that result in partial or complete paralysis.
Symptoms of a spine injury can include:
To prove negligence in a spine injury case, you must establish that:
Victims of spine injuries may be entitled to compensation for:
The statute of limitations for filing a spine injury lawsuit in California is generally:
Yes, California follows a “pure comparative fault” rule. Even if you were partially at fault for your spine injury, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 30%.
The duration of a spine injury case can vary widely depending on the complexity of the case, the severity of the injury, and whether the case is settled out of court or goes to trial. Some cases may settle within months, while others may take several years to resolve.
Yes, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced spine injury attorney. Spine injury cases are complex and require a thorough understanding of the law, strong negotiation skills, and the ability to present a compelling case in court. An attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and maximize your compensation.
If you suspect a spine injury, seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the best possible outcome. Document all details of the incident, gather evidence, and contact a spine injury attorney to discuss your legal options.
The long-term effects of a spine injury can vary significantly depending on the severity and location of the injury. They may include chronic pain, mobility issues, partial or complete paralysis, loss of bladder or bowel control, and the need for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation.
Whether you can return to work after a spine injury depends on the severity of the injury and the type of work you do. Some people may be able to return to work with modifications or in a different capacity, while others may be unable to work and require disability benefits.
If you’re unsure about the viability of your claim, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our firm. We’ll listen to your story, evaluate your case, and provide you with the guidance you need to seek justice and recover the compensation you deserve.
Determining the potential value of a spine injury lawsuit requires an assessment of various factors unique to your case. While we cannot provide an exact dollar amount without fully evaluating your situation, we can discuss the types of compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
The potential value of your spine injury lawsuit will depend on factors like the severity and permanence of your injury, the extent of your medical treatment and rehabilitation, the impact on your ability to work and earn a living, and the overall impact on your life and relationships. We carefully evaluate these factors and work with medical experts, economists, and other professionals to assess the full extent of your damages and pursue maximum compensation.
Many clients are concerned about the prospect of going to court for their spine injury lawsuit. While every case is unique and the possibility of trial cannot be ruled out, the vast majority of personal injury cases, including spine injury lawsuits, are resolved without the need for a trial.
Our goal is to achieve the best outcome for our clients while minimizing the stress and uncertainty associated with litigation. We explore all options for resolving your spine injury claim in the most efficient and effective manner.
In most cases, we are able to negotiate a fair settlement with the at-fault party or their insurance company through pre-trial negotiations or alternative dispute resolution methods such as mediation or arbitration. This allows us to reach a resolution without the need for protracted litigation or the expense and uncertainty of a trial.
However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, and if pursuing your case in court is in your best interests, then we are prepared to advocate for you at trial. We have extensive experience representing clients in trial and we are fully prepared to present a compelling case on your behalf before a judge and jury if necessary.
Throughout your case, we will keep you informed and provide you with honest and straightforward advice about your options.
If you’ve already been contacted by the insurance company after sustaining a spine injury, you should proceed with caution and seek legal guidance. Insurance companies are known for employing tactics aimed at minimizing their financial liability, which may not always align with your best interests.
We advise against engaging in discussions or providing recorded statements to the insurance company without legal representation. Anything you say could potentially be used against you to devalue or deny your claim. The insurance company’s primary goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line. They may try to pressure you into accepting a lowball settlement offer or provide misleading information about your legal rights. By having an experienced attorney on your side, you gain a powerful advocate who will fight to ensure that you receive fair compensation.
When you retain us, we immediately inform the insurance company that you have retained legal counsel. This sends a clear message that you are serious about protecting your rights and interests. From that point forward, all communications and negotiations will be conducted through our office, relieving you of dealing directly with the insurance company.
During our initial consultation, we will review any communications you’ve had with the insurance company, assess the strength of your case, and develop a strategic plan to pursue maximum compensation on your behalf. Together, we can level the playing field and hold the insurance company accountable for the full extent of your damages.
The spine is a complex structure made up of vertebrae, discs, nerves, and supporting tissues. While Injuries to the spine vary widely, some of the most common injuries include:
Herniated Discs (or Slipped Discs)
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of a spinal disc protrudes through the tough outer layer, often putting pressure on nearby nerves. This can result in pain, numbness, or weakness in the affected area, and may require treatment such as physical therapy, medication, or surgery.
Spinal Fractures
Fractures of the vertebrae can occur due to trauma, such as a car accident, fall, or sports injury. These fractures can range from minor compression fractures to more severe fractures that may cause instability or spinal cord damage. Treatment depends on the severity and location of the fracture and may include bracing, surgery, or spinal fusion.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can lead to loss of sensation, muscle weakness or paralysis, loss of bowel or bladder control, and other complications. Treatment often involves rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care to manage symptoms and improve function.
Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal, which can put pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to pain, numbness, or weakness in the arms, legs, or back. This condition can be caused by aging, degenerative changes in the spine, or other underlying conditions. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy, injections, or surgery to relieve pressure on the nerves.
Spinal Cord Compression
Compression of the spinal cord can occur due to herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or traumatic injury. This can lead to symptoms such as pain, weakness, numbness, or loss of function below the level of the compression. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication, physical therapy, or surgery to decompress the spinal cord.
The treatment for spine injuries varies depending on the type, severity, and location of the injury, as well as the individual's overall health and preferences. Here are some of the most common treatments for spine injuries:
Medication
Over-the-counter or prescription medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, or pain relievers may be used to manage pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, as well as alleviate pain and prevent further injury.
Bracing
External braces or orthotic devices may be used to provide support and stability to the spine, particularly in cases of spinal fractures or instability.
Activity Modification
Modifying activities and avoiding movements or positions that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce pain and promote healing.
Epidural Steroid Injections
Injections of corticosteroids into the epidural space around the spinal cord can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis.
Facet Joint Injections: Injections of anesthetic or anti-inflammatory medication into the facet joints of the spine can provide temporary pain relief for conditions such as arthritis or spinal arthritis.
Surgical Interventions:
Discectomy
Surgical removal of part or all of a herniated disc to relieve pressure on nerves and alleviate pain.
Spinal Fusion
Fusion of two or more vertebrae using bone grafts or synthetic materials to stabilize the spine and alleviate pain caused by spinal instability, degenerative disc disease, or spinal deformities.
Laminectomy
Surgical removal of part of the lamina (bony arch) of a vertebra to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves, often performed to treat spinal stenosis or spinal cord compression.
Vertebroplasty or Kyphoplasty
Minimally invasive procedures in which bone cement is injected into fractured vertebrae to stabilize them and relieve pain associated with compression fractures.
Spine injuries can result from various causes, ranging from traumatic accidents to degenerative conditions. Some of the most common causes of spine injuries include:
Motor Vehicle Accidents
Car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and other motor vehicle collisions are a leading cause of spine injuries. The impact forces involved in these accidents can cause fractures, herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries, particularly in high-speed or severe collisions.
Falls
Falls are a common cause of spine injuries, especially among older adults. Falls from heights, such as ladders or stairs, or slipping and falling on slippery surfaces can result in fractures, compression injuries, or other spinal cord injuries.
Sports and Recreational Activities
Participation in sports and recreational activities can increase the risk of spine injuries, particularly contact sports such as football, rugby, or hockey. High-impact collisions, falls, or awkward landings can cause fractures, herniated discs, or spinal cord injuries.
Workplace Accidents
Spine injuries can occur in various workplace environments, particularly in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare where workers may be exposed to hazards such as falls, heavy lifting, or repetitive motions. Workplace accidents such as falls from heights, being struck by falling objects, or overexertion can lead to spine injuries.
Simply fill out the form or call 619.821.0500 to receive a free case review. We’ll evaluate what happened, your injuries, and potential defendants to determine how we can best help you.