Early Signs of Paralysis After an Accident

Accidents may cause many injuries, some of which can be catastrophic and cause permanent impairments to the victim. Spinal cord injuries are common in accidents and can have severe effects such as paralysis. Paralysis, whether partial or total, is life-altering and will determine how the victim will be able to go on living their life.

If you’ve been in an accident and suffered spinal cord injuries, it is important to look out for the early signs of paralysis so that you may document them for use in a personal injury claim.

What Causes Paralysis?

Paralysis happens when a person suffers a complete spinal cord injury. The spinal cord is one of the main parts of the human nervous system. It is a delicate, round structure that runs through the spine, beginning at the brainstem and running down to the lower back. This structure contains nerve fibers and tissues and is connected to almost every part of the body. Paralysis can occur when a person suffers an injury to their spinal cord, which may cause all feeling and ability to control movement below the injury site to be lost. So the location of the injury on the spine will determine the extent of the paralysis inflicted.

The number one cause of paralysis is strokes, and the second leading cause is injury to the spinal cord. Spinal cord injuries can occur when the victim is involved in:

• Motor vehicle accidents
• Sports injuries
• Violence
• Falls
• And more

Early Signs of Paralysis to Look For

Early signs that may indicate a spinal cord injury and may lead to paralysis include:

• Loss of sensation, the inability to feel heat, coldness, or touch
• Muscle movement or spasms
• Loss of control of bowels or bladder
• Trouble with balance
• Pain or stinging sensation
• Changes in sexual sensitivity or function
• Stiff neck, back pain, or headache

Symptoms that may indicate an emergency after a spinal cord injury include:

• Trouble breathing
• Difficulty walking or balancing
• Symptoms of shock (blueish lips or fingernails, pale skin)
• Twisted neck or back
• Semi-conscious or unconscious

What Are The Different Types Of Paralysis?

There are several different types of paralysis that can affect you, including:

• Monoplegia: the paralysis of one limb
• Hemiplegia: paralysis affecting only one side of the body
• Diplegia: paralysis affecting two limbs, usually affecting the legs more than the arms
• Paraplegia: paralysis affecting the lower half of the body, including both legs
• Triplegia: paralysis affecting three limbs, this could be both legs and one arm, both arms and one leg, or it could be paralysis in one arm, one leg, and the face.
• Quadriplegia: paralysis affecting all four limbs

What Are the Symptoms of Paralysis? 

Paralysis is the impairment of signal transmission between the brain and muscles. Recognizing the early symptoms leading to paralysis after a car accident demands immediate medical attention.

• Strange sensations within limbs: A sudden inability to feel sensations in areas such as the arms, legs, hands, and feet may point to nerve damage.
• Numbness or tingling in the limbs: You may notice a sudden loss of sensation in your arms, legs, hands, or feet, signaling nerve damage.
• Involuntary muscle spasms: Spasticity or rigidity of muscles could be some of the first signs of neurologic disorders associated with paralysis. 
• Loss of coordination or balance: Difficulty standing, walking, or grasping objects may suggest nervous system impairment.
• Bowel or bladder dysfunction: Changes in urinary or digestive control are frequently linked to spinal cord injuries.
• Speech or breathing difficulties: In severe cases, paralysis can impact respiratory function or vocal cord control.

How Is Paralysis Diagnosed After a Car Accident? 

To establish the degree and type of paralysis, medical professionals combine physical examinations with complex imaging tests. Early, precise diagnoses are necessary to design an individualized treatment approach. Some of the diagnostic methods include:

• X-rays to identify fractures, dislocations, or spinal misalignment that may contribute to nerve damage.
• CT scans or MRIs for detailed imaging of the spinal cord, nerves, and soft tissues to detect trauma-related injuries.
• Electromyograms (EMG) to measure the electrical activity of muscles and assess nerve function.
• Myelograms involving contrast dye and X-rays provide a clear view of spinal cord injuries and nerve compression.
• Neurological exams assess reflexes, muscle strength, and sensory responses, helping doctors pinpoint affected areas.

These diagnostic tools help distinguish between temporary and permanent paralysis, guiding immediate medical interventions and long-term rehabilitation plans.

Temporary Paralysis After a Car Accident 

Not all paralysis after a car accident is permanent. Some individuals experience temporary paralysis due to inflammation, nerve compression, or spinal shock syndrome. In these cases, mobility may gradually return with medical treatment and rehabilitation.

For instance, swelling around the spinal cord can create pressure on nerves, causing temporary loss of movement. Once the swelling subsides, patients may regain motor function. However, even temporary paralysis requires immediate medical attention to prevent complications.

Can Paralysis Be Treated? 

While a cure for permanent paralysis does not currently exist, various treatment strategies help manage symptoms and improve independence:

• Physical therapy to maintain muscle strength, improve mobility, and reduce stiffness.
• Occupational therapy for adapting to daily activities with specialized techniques and assistive devices.
• Medications such as muscle relaxants and nerve pain relievers to manage symptoms.
• Surgical interventions for repairing nerve damage or stabilizing spinal fractures.
• Assistive devices like wheelchairs, braces, and adaptive technology enhance quality of life.

With the right combination of therapies and devices, many individuals living with paralysis regain partial independence. 

Are There Other Side Effects of Paralysis? 

Beyond immobility, paralysis can lead to additional health challenges, including:

• Blood clots and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) from prolonged immobility.
• Pressure ulcers (bedsores) due to lack of movement.
• Urinary tract infections from bladder control issues.
• Respiratory complications if paralysis affects breathing muscles.
• Emotional and psychological struggles, such as depression or anxiety.

Carrying the right medical support team is crucial to tackling these challenges. Rehabilitation facilities often bundle psychological support with physical care, helping individuals adapt to life post-injury. 

What to Do if You Suspect Paralysis After an Accident 

In case you are experiencing signs of paralysis after a car accident, follow these critical steps:

1. Seek immediate medical attention: Emergency treatment stabilizes injuries and minimizes long-term damage. 
2. Document injuries and medical bills: Keep detailed records of all expenses and treatments related to your injury. 
3. Contact an experienced personal injury attorney: They will guide you through the legal process and help secure compensation for damages. 

What Kind of Compensation Can You Get After an Injury Accident? 

If another party’s negligence caused your paralysis, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages:

• Medical expenses, including hospitalization, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
• Lost wages and diminished future earning potential.
• Home modifications and long-term care costs.

Non-Economic Damages:

• Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Loss of consortium (impact on personal relationships).

Punitive Damages:

Punitive damages may apply if gross negligence, such as reckless driving, led to the accident. These damages are meant to penalize the at-fault party and deter similar behavior in the future.

Under Colorado Revised Statutes, §13-21-101, courts may award punitive damages in extreme misconduct cases.

Your Legal Options After Becoming Temporarily Paralyzed 

Victims of temporary or permanent paralysis after a car accident have several legal options to seek justice and financial relief. Legal action can help cover medical costs, lost income, and future care expenses. The most common legal avenues include:

• Filing a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver or other responsible parties to recover damages.
• Negotiating a settlement with insurance companies to obtain fair compensation without prolonged litigation.
• Pursuing punitive damages if the accident resulted from reckless or intentional misconduct, such as drunk or distracted driving.

Each case is unique, and an experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the circumstances, gather evidence, and determine the best course of action to maximize your claim. Seeking legal guidance early ensures that deadlines are met and critical evidence is preserved, increasing the likelihood of a successful claim.

How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help? 

Navigating a paralysis claim without legal representation can be overwhelming. A skilled attorney can:

• Collect and analyze evidence, including accident reports and medical records.
• Consult medical experts to establish the extent of your injuries.
• Negotiate with insurance companies to prevent lowball settlements.
• Represent you in court if litigation becomes necessary.

Paralysis after a car accident can be a life-altering experience, but legal help is available. The attorneys at Cannon Law are dedicated to advocating for accident victims and ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve. Whether your case involves paralysis or a traumatic brain injury, working with a trusted Fort Collins brain injury lawyer can make a significant difference in your recovery.

For a free consultation, call Cannon Law at 970-682-1691 to learn how we can assist you in pursuing justice and securing the resources needed for recovery.