Understanding Paralysis

Paralysis could occur when an injury causes a loss of feeling or sensation in certain areas of the body. This may lead to a loss of function in a muscle or groups of muscles. Spinal cord injuries may lead to paralysis in all limbs and most of the body or may result in paralysis from the waist down. Paralysis could result in permanent incapacitation and make individuals completely unable to care for themselves. The degree of paralysis arising out of a spinal cord injury often depends on the location of the damage to the spinal cord. Nerves in the upper spinal column control the upper part of the body, whereas nerves in the lower spinal column control the lower part of the body. 

The location of the damaged nerves typically determines which parts of the body and how much of the body is paralyzed. Traffic accidents are one of the most common causes of spinal cord injuries and paralysis in the United States, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis also may result from a fall, a workplace accident, or recreational activities. Whatever the case may be, persons who were injured due to the negligence of others may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. An Alexandria paralysis victim lawyer could help determine what compensation may be appropriate for paralysis injuries.

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I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the...

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the entire process. He was always patient, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had. What stood out most was how genuinely he cared. He made sure I understood every step and always made me feel supported and informed.

Wesley’s professionalism and compassion truly set him apart. He made a stressful situation so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of his hard work. I highly recommend Wesley and the entire Laborde Earles team. They really do put their clients first.

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Jaine Fisher

Lafayette

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.

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Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

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maddie jo

Marksville

Trudy Dupuy is a wonderful asset to the team. She does an amazing job.

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Annabelle D.

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

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Tracie Martin

Alexandria

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other things. Her detailed skills are very delightful. She goes out of her way to check on us, make sure we don't have any questions, and she is always on point. She moves very quick and always goes above and beyond for us to make sure we understand the process. I am so glad I ran into Laborde Earles and Alexis. Everyone will know about this company for sure and Alexis

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R.S.

Lafayette

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

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Gail

Baton Rouge

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I thi...

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I think it’s safe to assume that the majority of people who call in are stressed and to have someone who is calm and kind taking the call is a great representation of the company.

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Debbie Fontenot

Marksville

Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.

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Proving Liability in Alexandria, LA Claims

Paralysis injury claims typically arise from negligence. This legal standard requires that claimants provide sufficient evidence to prove that their injuries directly and proximately resulted from the carelessness or negligence of others. If the potentially liable parties failed to live up to the standard of reasonable care required by this situation, they may be responsible for the costs of any resulting injuries. Proving liability in a negligence case could be crucial for an injured person to get the compensation they need to offset lost income and support their ongoing medical needs.

Hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, surgical expenses, and the costs of long-term care or home health care could result in thousands or even millions of dollars over time. As many injured people are left unable to work in their previous professions, they may lack the income necessary to support themselves or pay their steadily rising medical bills. A plaintiff could seek legal advice from an Alexandria paralysis injury lawyer, following the accident.

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A Rapides Parish Paralysis Injury Lawyer Can Help Your Case

Following your injury, you may decide to work with a paralysis attorney. 

When you work with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, our team will:

  • Handle any negotiations for you
  • Gather evidence to prove your claims of negligence
  • Communicate with insurers
  • Update you on the details of your case
  • Answer any questions you might have
  • Help you reach a fair settlement that compensates you for your damages

We understand you are likely under a lot of stress after a paralysis injury. Our Alexandria, LA lawyers will support you throughout your case so you can focus on getting better.

Working With Our Paralysis Attorney is Affordable

At Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers, we know you probably have piling medical bills after suffering from a major injury like paralysis. Working with our team is affordable because we work on a contingency-fee basis. This means you won’t have to pay our firm any money upfront or out of pocket. Your attorney will only get paid once your case has reached a fair settlement and you have been compensated. 

The fee your lawyer gets will be a percentage of your compensation. This can ease some of the financial worries you might have when it comes to seeking legal help. We also offer free initial case evaluations. If you would like to ask any questions or speak to one of our personal injury lawyers in Alexandria, you can do so for free.

Filing a Timely Lawsuit in Rapides Parish

Every state in the nation imposes time limits, called the statute of limitations, for filing different types of lawsuits. Louisiana requires personal injury plaintiffs to file a legal action within two years from the date of injury, under CC 3493.1. Filing the case within the year is imperative. Otherwise, a defendant will almost certainly object, and the court will likely dismiss the case. Our Alexandria, LA paralysis injury lawyer can help you file your lawsuit on time.

Types of Paralysis and Related Health Issues

In most cases of paralysis, head or spinal cord injuries interrupt the signals being sent to and from the brain, which prevents a victim from being able to move and/or feel parts of the body. Paralysis can either be partial –where the victim retains some movement or feeling in the affected area – or complete. While paralysis can impact just one limb or one side of the body, paraplegia and quadriplegia are the most common. Paraplegia affects both legs and, for some victims, the torso. Quadriplegia impacts a victim’s arms and legs, as well as the trunk.

Some paralysis victims may experience problems with their heart, lungs, bladder, and bowels, as well as blood clots and pressure sores. Many victims also suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. A Rapides Parish paralysis injury attorney could help victims pursue compensation for such physical and mental suffering.

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Potential Compensation Available to Victims of Paralysis Injuries

Where a person either fails to exercise reasonable care or blatantly disregards known risks and causes another’s paralysis, victims in Rapides County may be entitled to compensatory – and in more limited cases, punitive – damages.

Compensatory Damages

This category of recovery includes both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages might include medical expenses, rehabilitation, present and future lost earnings, and damaged property. Non-economic damages typically include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases, such as motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol, punitive damages may also be awarded in Rapides Parish paralysis injury lawsuits. Unlike compensatory damages which are meant to compensate victims for their losses, punitive damages are intended to punish defendants for wrongdoing.

Consulting an Alexandria Paralysis Injury Attorney

The aftermath of an accident that results in paralysis or other catastrophic injuries could be dire. You may be facing limitations that you never even considered before. The opportunity to obtain compensation for your losses with the assistance of an Alexandria paralysis injury lawyer may be invaluable.

An experienced lawyer can examine every detail of the circumstances that led to your paralysis and determine whether you are eligible for any form of relief. Call today for help determining your next steps.

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