Houston Spinal Cord
Injury Lawyer
What you need to do if you are involve in a vehicle accident?
Suffered a Serious Spinal Cord Injury in Houston?
A spinal cord injury can change a person’s life in seconds.
A car crash, fall, workplace accident, or violent impact can damage the spinal cord and affect movement, strength, sensation, and other body functions below the injury site. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke explains that spinal cord damage may cause temporary or permanent changes in these functions.
Roxell Richards Law Firm represents people and families facing serious spinal cord injuries caused by negligence. The firm investigates how the accident happened, identifies responsible parties, and pursues compensation for medical treatment, lost earnings, pain, disability, and long-term care needs. Its current spinal cord injury practice specifically addresses medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care.
A spinal injury claim should consider more than what you owe today. It may need to account for the medical and financial effects you will experience years into the future.
Contact Roxell Richards Law Firm today for a free case review.
Why Choose Roxell Richards Injury Law Firm?
Spinal cord injuries can create lifelong medical and financial challenges. The law firm representing you should be prepared to evaluate those long-term consequences.
20+ Years of Personal Injury Experience
Attorney Roxell Richards states that she has more than 20 years of experience specializing in personal injury law and leads Roxell Richards Injury Law Firm from its Houston headquarters.
Free Case Review
You can discuss the accident, your spinal injury, and your potential legal options without paying an upfront consultation fee.
No Attorney’s Fees Unless We Win
Roxell Richards Law Firm states that consultations are free and clients do not pay attorney’s fees if the firm does not win their case.
Thorough Case Investigation
A serious spinal cord claim may require accident reports, photographs, videos, witness testimony, medical evidence, vehicle data, safety records, or product documentation.
Focus on Future Damages
A catastrophic spinal injury may affect a person’s health and earning capacity for decades. The firm evaluates future medical care and other long-term losses rather than focusing only on bills that have already arrived.
Access to Qualified Professionals
Depending on the claim, specialists may include:
- Neurologists
- Neurosurgeons
- Rehabilitation physicians
- Physical therapists
- Occupational therapists
- Life-care planners
- Vocational experts
- Economists
- Engineers
- Accident reconstruction specialists
Trial-Ready Representation
Serious spinal injury claims may place victims against large insurance companies or corporations. Thorough preparation can strengthen negotiations and ensure the case is ready for litigation when a fair resolution cannot be reached.
What Is a Spinal Cord Injury?
The spinal cord is the bundle of nerves and nerve fibers that carries signals between the brain and the body.
According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, spinal cord injury can result from direct damage to the spinal cord or from injury to surrounding vertebrae and tissues. The resulting damage may produce temporary or permanent changes in movement, sensation, strength, and bodily functions below the injury.
Traumatic spinal injuries may occur when an accident fractures, dislocates, crushes, or compresses the vertebrae surrounding the spinal cord.
Spinal Cord Injuries, Catastrophic Injuries, and Personal Injury Claims
A severe spinal cord injury is often catastrophic because its effects can be permanent. A person who previously worked, drove, exercised, and lived independently may suddenly need mobility equipment, home modifications, rehabilitation, or daily assistance.
For that reason, spinal cord injury claims fit naturally within Roxell Richards Law Firm’s broader Houston Catastrophic Injury Lawyer practice. The firm’s catastrophic injury page describes these cases as severe injuries causing permanent or long-term damage that can affect a person’s ability to work, live independently, or perform ordinary activities.
Spinal injuries are also part of the firm’s broader Houston Personal Injury Lawyer practice. That resource explains negligence, liability, insurance disputes, medical expenses, lost earnings, and other damages available when another party causes preventable harm.
Roxell Richards Law Firm evaluates these areas together so a spinal cord claim reflects both who caused the accident and how the injury may affect the victim’s future.
Complete vs. Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries vary considerably from person to person.
Complete Spinal Cord Injury
A complete injury generally involves the loss of sensory and motor function below the level of the injury.
The effects depend on where along the spinal cord the damage occurred.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
With an incomplete injury, some motor or sensory function may remain below the injury. A person may retain limited movement, sensation, or function while still experiencing severe and permanent limitations.
Medical professionals determine the neurological level and severity of a spinal cord injury through examination, imaging, and other clinical testing.
Paraplegia and Tetraplegia
Two serious outcomes associated with spinal cord damage are paraplegia and tetraplegia.
Paraplegia
Paraplegia generally affects the lower parts of the body and may interfere with:
- Leg movement
- Walking
- Balance
- Sensation
- Bladder and bowel function
- Sexual function
Many people with paraplegia rely on wheelchairs or other mobility equipment.
Tetraplegia
Tetraplegia, sometimes called quadriplegia, affects the arms as well as the lower body. Higher spinal cord injuries can produce broader effects and may interfere with breathing, hand movement, personal care, and other daily activities.
The precise effects depend on the neurological level and severity of the injury.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord trauma can happen in many kinds of accidents.
Federal health information identifies motor vehicle crashes and falls as major causes of traumatic spinal cord injury. Car crashes are a leading cause among people younger than 65, while falls cause most spinal cord injuries among people age 65 and older.
Car Accidents
A high-speed collision can fracture vertebrae, compress the spinal cord, or cause severe trauma through sudden movement.
Crashes involving:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Rear-end impacts
- Rollovers
may result in permanent spinal damage.
Truck Accidents
Commercial trucks can produce tremendous forces during a collision. A truck crash may cause spinal fractures, crush injuries, or other catastrophic trauma, particularly when a smaller passenger vehicle absorbs much of the impact.
Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists have little physical protection during collisions. A rider may suffer spinal cord damage after striking another vehicle, roadway, barrier, or fixed object.
Falls
Falls can cause severe spinal injuries, particularly when someone falls from a significant height or lands forcefully on the back, neck, or head.
Dangerous falls may occur because of:
- Wet floors
- Broken stairs
- Defective railings
- Unsafe ladders
- Scaffolding failures
- Unprotected heights
- Uneven walkways
Falls are particularly important among older adults; federal health information identifies them as the leading cause of spinal cord injury among people 65 and older.
Workplace Accidents
Workers may suffer spinal cord damage after:
- Falling from heights
- Being struck by objects
- Machinery accidents
- Vehicle collisions
- Structural failures
- Heavy-equipment incidents
Industrial Accidents
Refineries, manufacturing plants, warehouses, and other industrial environments may expose employees to machinery, explosions, falling materials, and high-energy impacts.
Defective Products
A defective vehicle component, machinery system, safety harness, ladder, or other product may contribute to spinal trauma.
Unsafe Properties
Dangerous stairs, elevators, balconies, swimming pools, walkways, or other property conditions may lead to serious falls and spinal injuries.
How Serious Are Spinal Cord Injuries?
Spinal cord injuries can affect much more than movement. NINDS explains that SCI can produce temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, strength, and bodily functions below the level where the damage occurs.
The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center maintains a national database specifically dedicated to understanding spinal cord injuries and improving outcomes for people living with SCI. The database contains decades of information collected through the Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems program.
For broader injury context, CDC’s latest national statistics report 43.5 million injury-related emergency department visits in 2022 and 271,729 injury deaths in 2024.
These statistics do not determine liability in an individual case, but they demonstrate why injury prevention, proper medical care, and careful legal investigation matter.
Complications of a Spinal Cord Injury
Spinal cord injuries can affect systems throughout the body.
Depending on the injury, complications may include:
- Reduced mobility
- Chronic pain
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of sensation
- Bladder or bowel problems
- Respiratory complications
- Pressure injuries
- Muscle spasms
- Sexual dysfunction
- Reduced independence
The precise effects depend on the location and severity of the spinal cord damage and should be evaluated by qualified medical professionals.
Evidence That Can Strengthen a Spinal Cord Injury Claim
Important evidence may include:
- Police reports
- Workplace incident reports
- Photographs
- Surveillance video
- Dashcam footage
- Witness statements
- Medical records
- MRI and CT imaging
- Surgical reports
- Rehabilitation records
- Employment records
- Insurance policies
- Vehicle data
- Maintenance records
- Safety documentation
- Product records
- Expert evaluations
For family members, keeping notes about changes in independence and daily activities can also help document the practical effects of the injury.
What Compensation May Be Available?
A spinal cord injury claim may seek compensation for both financial losses and the personal consequences of permanent impairment.
Medical Expenses
Damages may include past and future costs for:
- Emergency care
- Hospitalization
- Surgery
- Diagnostic testing
- Medication
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy
- Medical equipment
Lost Income
Victims may seek compensation for income lost while receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Reduced Earning Capacity
A permanent disability may reduce or eliminate the ability to earn the same income in the future.
Pain and Suffering
A claim may account for physical pain and the disruption caused by serious spinal trauma.
Physical Impairment
Compensation may reflect limitations affecting:
- Walking
- Driving
- Working
- Exercise
- Personal care
- Independent living
Emotional Distress
Living with paralysis or another permanent impairment can create significant emotional consequences.
Home and Vehicle Modifications
A spinal injury victim may need:
- Wheelchair ramps
- Wider doorways
- Accessible bathrooms
- Lowered counters
- Stair lifts
- Modified vehicles
Personal Care
Some people require assistance with transportation, dressing, bathing, household tasks, or other activities.
Wrongful Death
When spinal trauma ultimately results in death, qualifying family members may have the right to pursue additional damages under Texas law.
Every claim depends on its own facts, evidence, available insurance, and applicable law.
Why Future Medical Care Matters
Spinal cord injuries may require continuing care long after the original hospitalization.
Future needs can include:
- Specialist appointments
- Surgery
- Medication
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Wheelchairs
- Mobility equipment
- Home healthcare
- Personal assistance
- Medical supplies
Settling a claim before future needs are properly evaluated may leave an injured person facing substantial expenses later.
Life-Care Planning After a Severe Spinal Injury
A life-care plan may be used in appropriate catastrophic injury claims to identify anticipated long-term needs.
It may address:
- Medical treatment
- Rehabilitation
- Medication
- Wheelchair replacement
- Assistive technology
- Home modifications
- Transportation
- Personal care
- Future procedures
Financial experts may then calculate the projected cost of these needs over time.
This type of analysis can help show why the value of a severe spinal cord injury claim may greatly exceed existing medical bills.
What Should You Do After a Suspected Spinal Cord Injury?
1. Seek Emergency Medical Care
Do not move unnecessarily after a serious neck or back injury unless remaining in place creates an immediate danger. Emergency medical professionals can stabilize the spine and evaluate potential neurological damage.
2. Follow Specialist Recommendations
Attend follow-up appointments, rehabilitation, therapy, and other recommended care.
3. Preserve Evidence
Keep:
- Photographs
- Videos
- Accident reports
- Damaged property
- Clothing
- Medical documents
- Witness information
4. Track Your Recovery
Document changes in:
- Mobility
- Pain
- Work ability
- Sleep
- Independence
- Daily activities
5. Keep Financial Records
Save medical bills, pay records, prescriptions, transportation receipts, and other injury-related costs.
6. Be Careful With Insurance Companies
An insurer may ask for a recorded statement or offer a settlement before the long-term medical outlook is understood. Consider speaking with a lawyer before signing releases.
7. Limit Social Media Activity
Insurance companies may use photographs, videos, or comments out of context to dispute limitations.
8. Contact a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer
Early legal involvement can help preserve evidence and begin documenting future losses.
Speak With a Houston Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Today
A spinal cord injury can affect your mobility, employment, independence, finances, and family for the rest of your life. Insurance companies may focus on what has already happened. Your claim may need to account for what comes next.
Roxell Richards Law Firm can investigate the accident, preserve evidence, identify responsible parties, document current losses, and evaluate future medical and financial needs.
When spinal cord damage results in permanent paralysis or another life-changing disability, learn more about long-term claims through our Houston Catastrophic Injury Lawyer page.
For a broader explanation of negligence, insurance claims, medical expenses, lost wages, and other recoverable damages, visit our Houston Personal Injury Lawyer resource.
Contact Roxell Richards Law Firm today for a free case review.
Roxell Richards Injury Law Firm
6420 Richmond Avenue, Ste.
135Houston, TX 77057
Call: (713) 974-0388
Free case review. No attorney’s fees unless compensation is recovered.
Attorney Roxell Richards
This Houston Vehicle Accident service page is provided by The Roxell Richards Law Firm, a Texas-based personal injury law firm dedicated to representing individuals injured in vehicular accidents. With a focus on Texas personal injury law, the firm helps victims of vehicle accidents understand their legal rights, navigate complex insurance claims, and pursue fair compensation for their injuries.
Roxell Richards, attorney and founder of The Roxell Richards Law Firm, brings more than 20 years of experience representing clients in motorcycle accident and personal injury cases across Texas. His practice includes handling claims involving serious injuries, contested liability, and insurance coverage disputes. The firm’s legal approach emphasizes clear communication, individualized case evaluation, and client-focused representation at every stage of the legal process.
The legal information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to a vehicle accident, individuals are encouraged to consult with a qualified Texas personal injury attorney.
I’m incredibly grateful for their hard work and dedication to my case. If you’re looking for a law firm that genuinely cares about your well-being and delivers results, I highly recommend Roxell Richards Law Firm.
Thank you,
Dr. Leana Jefferson
LEARN YOUR VEHICLE ACCIDENT RIGHT NOW!
CASE RESULTS
Roxell Richards Injury Law Firm is here to help after a motorcycle accident. Our attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and will fight for your rights and full compensation with dedication. Trust us to protect your interests every step of the way.
$3 Million
SETTLEMENT
CAR ACCIDENT
$550,000
SETTLEMENT
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
$600,000
SETTLEMENT
TRUCK ACCIDENT
$541,329
JURY VERDICT
MINOR CAR ACCIDENT
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