A spinal cord injury can change everything in an instant. One moment, you’re going about your day. The next, a slip, crash, or fall leaves you facing pain, mobility challenges, or even permanent disability. At Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP, we understand how overwhelming this can feel. Our attorneys have helped countless individuals and families throughout Morristown, Sussex County, and across New Jersey navigate life after a spinal injury with compassion and determination.
We believe that no one should face the financial, emotional, and physical burden of a spinal injury alone—especially when someone else’s negligence caused it. Our experienced legal team is here to fight for the compensation and support you need to rebuild your future.
Understanding Spinal Injuries in New Jersey
The spine is the body’s central support structure, and damage to it can affect every part of daily life. Spinal cord injuries are often classified as either complete or incomplete. A complete injury results in total loss of sensation and movement below the injury site. An incomplete injury allows for some function to remain, but it may be limited or unpredictable. In both cases, recovery is often long, expensive, and emotionally taxing.
Spinal injuries can occur in many different types of accidents, including:
- Motor vehicle collisions
- Slip and fall accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Defective products
- Acts of negligence on unsafe premises
Regardless of how your injury happened, if it resulted from someone else’s carelessness or misconduct, you may be entitled to financial recovery.
Common Causes of Spinal Injuries
Spinal cord injuries can happen in many situations. Some of the most common causes we see in New Jersey include:
- Car, truck, and motorcycle accidents
- Falls from heights or on slippery surfaces
- Construction and workplace accidents
- Sports or recreational incidents
- Medical negligence or surgical errors
- Dangerous consumer products
In many of these scenarios, the injury could have been prevented. For example, a poorly maintained parking lot might lead to a dangerous fall, similar to the accidents we handle on our Slip and Fall Accidents page. A distracted driver could cause a devastating crash, as described on our Motor Vehicle Accidents page. Our role is to identify the cause, prove liability, and hold the responsible party accountable.
Impact of Spinal Injuries on Victims and Families
Spinal injuries can lead to a wide range of complications, depending on their severity and location. These may include:
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Loss of sensation and motor function
- Chronic pain
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Respiratory complications
- Increased vulnerability to infections and secondary conditions
Beyond the physical consequences, the emotional toll on individuals and families can be immense. Victims may face a sudden loss of independence, while loved ones take on new caregiving roles. Medical bills, rehabilitation, home modifications, and lost wages can add financial pressure during an already challenging time.
Our attorneys approach spinal injury cases with both legal skill and genuine empathy. We work closely with medical experts, life care planners, and your family to fully understand your needs—today and in the future.
Steps to Take After a Spinal Injury in Sussex County
If you or a loved one has sustained a spinal injury, the steps you take early on can significantly affect your recovery and legal case:
- Get immediate medical attention, even if you believe the injury is “minor.” Prompt diagnosis is critical.
- Preserve any evidence related to the accident—photographs, incident reports, witness statements, or damaged equipment.
- Refrain from giving statements to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney.
- Contact a trusted spinal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options and preserve your right to compensation.
How Our Morristown Spinal Injury Lawyers Can Help
At Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP, we bring decades of experience to complex spinal injury cases across Sussex County, Morristown, and New Jersey. Our attorneys will:
- Investigate the cause of your injury and determine liability
- Work with top medical professionals to document the full impact of your injury
- Calculate the cost of your care, rehabilitation, and lost earnings
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Pursue maximum compensation through settlement or litigation
We understand that no amount of money can undo the harm, but financial recovery can make a critical difference in securing the medical care and support you need.
New Jersey Laws and Deadlines You Should Know
Under New Jersey law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. Failing to file within this timeframe could result in losing your right to pursue compensation.
Additionally, New Jersey follows a comparative negligence rule. If you are found partially at fault for the incident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Having experienced legal representation ensures that your rights are fully protected and that liability is fairly assessed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spinal Injury Claims
What if my spinal injury happened at work?
You may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits as well as a potential third-party personal injury claim, depending on the circumstances. It’s important to speak with a lawyer to explore all available avenues.
Can I still file a claim if I had a pre-existing condition?
Yes. If someone else’s negligence aggravated your condition or caused additional harm, you may still have a valid claim.
What types of damages can I recover?
Damages often include medical expenses, future care costs, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and home or vehicle modifications.
Do spinal injury cases usually settle or go to trial?
Many cases are resolved through settlement, but we prepare every case as if it will go to court to ensure the strongest possible position.
How soon should I contact a lawyer?
The sooner, the better. Evidence can disappear, and legal deadlines apply. Contacting a lawyer early helps preserve your rights.
Speak With a Trusted Sussex County Spinal Injury Lawyer Today
A spinal injury can change everything—but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The compassionate attorneys at Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP are here to support you, protect your rights, and pursue the financial recovery you need to move forward.
If you or a loved one suffered a spinal injury in Morristown, Sussex County, or anywhere in New Jersey, contact us today to schedule a free, confidential consultation.
