The Unique Challenges of Pediatric Spinal Cord Injuries
If your child has suffered pediatric spinal cord injuries, there’s a lot you’ll need to know as you decide your next steps. We are here to help make it easier.
Spinal cord injuries are devastating at any age. But as a personal injury lawyer in Memphis, I’ve seen how pediatric spinal cord injuries can affect not only the child’s future but the entire family’s life.
These cases bring unique legal, medical, and emotional challenges – and families deserve support every step of the way.
Here’s what makes pediatric spinal cord injuries different, and why legal help is so important.
Lifelong Medical Needs
Children who suffer spinal cord injuries often require care for the rest of their lives. That might include:
- Ongoing physical and occupational therapy
- Mobility aids and home modifications
- Surgeries as the child grows
- Specialist care for bladder, bowel, or respiratory issues
Because a child is still developing, their medical needs may change drastically over time. Costs can easily reach millions over a lifetime and include unexpected complications.
So any legal case should consider future care needs, not just today’s bills.
Disruption of Development
A spinal cord injury can interrupt a child’s physical, emotional, and social development. These injuries may limit a child’s ability to play, participate in school, and develop independence.
They can also lead to:
- Depression or anxiety
- Isolation from peers
- Delays in education or milestones
- Frustration or behavioral changes
Plenty of children are able to overcome these challenges, but the frustrations shouldn’t be underestimated. Emotional and developmental injuries deserve just as much attention as the physical damage, and your legal claim should reflect that.
Need for Advocacy in School Systems
Many children with spinal cord injuries require special accommodations at school, including:
- Wheelchair-accessible classrooms
- Specialized transportation
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)
Families often have to fight for these accommodations. A personal injury lawyer experienced with pediatric cases can help make sure your child gets the financial support to cover their academically and social wellness.
Parental Caregiving Burden
When a child is hurt, the entire family is affected. Parents may have to:
- Quit their jobs or reduce work hours
- Learn complex caregiving skills
- Cover out-of-pocket medical expenses
- Move or renovate the home for accessibility
These changes can cause financial stress and emotional exhaustion. That’s why legal cases involving children must account for parental loss of income, emotional strain, and long-term family impact.
Legal Time Limits and Guardianship Issues
In Tennessee, the statute of limitations for a child’s personal injury case may differ from an adult’s. Minors often have more time to file, but waiting too long can weaken your case.
Also, because children can’t legally file lawsuits on their own, a parent or guardian has to act on their behalf. That’s why it’s so critical you speak with a lawyer early to protect your child’s rights and build a strong case from the start.
Common Causes of Pediatric Spinal Cord Injuries
These injuries can happen in many ways, including:
- Car or school bus accidents
- Falls from heights (like playground equipment or stairs)
- Sports injuries
- Diving accidents
- Medical malpractice during surgery or childbirth
No matter how it happened, if someone else’s negligence played a role, you may have a right to financial compensation to help your child recover and adapt.
You Don’t Have to Face This Alone
If your child has suffered a spinal cord injury, you may be facing a medical, legal, and financial crisis.
You need someone in your corner who understands what you’re going through and knows how to fight for the full compensation your family needs.
As an experienced Memphis personal injury lawyer, I’m here to help you every step of the way. Our award-winning team will come to your side and help fight your battles for you. We’ve won millions for our clients, and we can help you, too.
Let’s talk about what happened, what your child needs, and how we can build a case that supports your entire family’s future.
Reach out for a free consultation. You don’t have to carry this burden alone.