A spinal cord injury that causes paralysis changes your life in an instant. You may face months or years of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. You may struggle with lost income, mounting medical bills, and the emotional weight of your new reality. If someone else’s negligence caused your paralysis injury, you may be entitled to seek compensation to help you rebuild. The Bruner Law Firm represents paralysis injury victims throughout Niceville and Florida and works to pursue the compensation you need for your medical care, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Why Choose The Bruner Law Firm for Your Paralysis Injury Case
The Bruner Law Firm has represented catastrophic injury victims for over 30 years. Our founding partner established the firm in 1988 and has focused on plaintiff personal injury representation since 1992, giving us decades of experience in catastrophic injury cases. Our team includes attorneys recognized for their work in personal injury law. Drew Gordy Bruner is recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers and holds an AV-Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, a high recognition for legal ability and ethical standards. He is also a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation, a distinction awarded to a small percentage of lawyers nationwide. We handle your case with the skill and dedication it deserves. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our Niceville office serves Okaloosa County and the surrounding region, and we maintain additional offices in Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, and Santa Rosa Beach.
Understanding Paralysis from Spinal Cord Injuries
What Causes Paralysis in Accidents
Paralysis can result from damage to the spinal cord or brain. Motor vehicle collisions cause many paralysis injuries—rear-end crashes, intersection accidents, and highway collisions can damage the spine with significant force. Falls from heights, diving accidents into shallow water, and workplace accidents also cause spinal cord injuries. Medical malpractice during surgery or anesthesia can result in paralysis. Any accident involving substantial trauma to the spine or head carries the risk of permanent paralysis.
Types of Paralysis
Quadriplegia affects all four limbs and typically results from injury to the upper spine. Paraplegia affects the lower body and legs, usually from injury to the mid or lower spine. Hemiplegia affects one side of the body and often results from brain injury or stroke that may be caused by accident trauma.
Compensation Available for Paralysis Injuries
Paralysis injuries create both immediate and long-term financial needs. You may recover compensation for:
- Emergency medical care, surgery, and hospitalization
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Ongoing medical treatment and medications
- Home modifications and accessibility equipment
- Assistive devices and mobility aids
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering damages
- Long-term and lifetime care costs
The value of your case depends on the severity of your injury, your age, your earning capacity, and the extent of your medical needs. We work with medical professionals and life-care planners to evaluate the scope of your damages.
How The Bruner Law Firm Builds Your Paralysis Case
We investigate the details of your accident, gather police reports, medical records, and expert opinions about your injury and prognosis. We document your damages—medical bills, lost wages, and the impact on your quality of life. And we negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, presenting a case for appropriate compensation. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair value, we prepare your case for trial. Our attorneys have the experience and resources to bring your case to court if necessary. Learn more about how to document your personal injury for a successful claim.
Statute of Limitations for Paralysis Injury Claims in Florida
Florida law generally gives you two years from the date of your injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. This deadline is important. If you miss it, you may lose your right to recover compensation. Evidence can also become harder to obtain with time—witnesses move away, memories fade, and accident scenes change. Acting quickly can help protect your legal rights and strengthen your case. Contact The Bruner Law Firm as soon as possible after your injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a paralysis injury case take?
The timeline depends on your case. Some cases settle within months. Others take longer if we need to gather extensive medical evidence or if the insurance company disputes liability. If your case goes to trial, it may take a year or more. We keep you informed throughout the process. Learn about how long personal injury cases take to settle.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Florida follows comparative negligence rules. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, your recovery could be reduced to $80,000. We evaluate your case carefully to assess liability.
How much is my paralysis injury case worth?
Every case is unique. The value depends on the severity of your paralysis, your age and earning capacity, your medical expenses, and the impact on your life. We review your medical records, consult with experts, and analyze comparable cases to estimate your case’s potential value. We discuss our assessment with you before pursuing settlement or trial.
Do I have to go to trial?
Many personal injury cases settle before trial. We negotiate to reach a fair settlement when possible. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer adequate compensation, we are prepared to take your case to trial. You always decide whether to accept a settlement or proceed to court.
What should I do immediately after a paralysis injury?
Seek medical care first—your health is the priority. Call 911 if needed. Document the accident scene with photos if you can. Get contact information from witnesses. Report the accident to police if it involves a vehicle or property damage. Preserve evidence like clothing or equipment involved in the accident. Contact The Bruner Law Firm as soon as you are able so we can begin investigating your case. Learn more about what to do after a non-fault accident.
Contact The Bruner Law Firm for a Free Consultation
You do not have to handle this situation alone. The Bruner Law Firm offers a free consultation to discuss your paralysis injury case. We answer your questions, explain your legal options, and describe what to expect in the claims process. Call (850) 605-0672 today to schedule your free consultation. Our Niceville office is located at 701 East John Sims Parkway, Unit 305, Niceville, FL 32578. We also serve clients from our Fort Walton Beach, Panama City, and Santa Rosa Beach offices. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
