According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common causes of spinal cord injuries in West Virginia and across the United States are motor vehicle accidents (including automobiles and motorcycles), which account for more than 40% of new spinal cord injuries each year. 25% of spinal cord injuries are caused by falls (especially in victims over the age of 65), and another 15% are attributed to acts of violence, most often gun shot cases. The remaining 20% of injuries are the result of sporting and recreation incidents, alcohol use and degenerative diseases such as cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis and spinal cord inflammation.

In most cases, a sudden blow to the spine that fractures or dislocates vertebrae causes a permanent spinal cord injury. Symptoms of this condition can range from extreme pain to complete loss of feeling in the limbs. Further, victims of spinal cord injury may have trouble breathing or maintaining normal bowel function.

There are more than 11,000 new cases of spinal cord injuries each year. That means about 30 people experience this type of traumatic injury every day in America. The most often observed results are paraplegia (loss of sensation below the waist) and quadriplegia (loss of sensation and functionality below the neck/chest).

Spinal cord injuries are not to be taken lightly. Many times, when people have been seriously injured, they are not sure who to call. If you or someone close to you has experienced a spinal cord injury, you must contact a West Virginia personal injury lawyer right away to discuss your case.

The insurance company may pressure you to quickly settle your case, but it's best to get a qualified legal opinion before you do anything. Spinal cord injuries change lives forever and a reliable lawyer can help make your situation more comfortable.