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New York Spinal Injury Frequently Asked Questions


What Are Common Causes of a Spinal Injury?

People frequently injure their lower back. The most common reason is due to a degenerative condition, or it can be from poor body mechanics or from an injury.

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What Is a Spinal Injury?

Sometimes called a SCI, this refers to an injury of the bundle of nerves that are in the spine. Injuries of this type can cause chronic pain, loss of movement and permanent disabilities.

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What Are the Different Types of Spinal Cord Injuries?

They are categorized by the severity and the result, as follows:

Partial spinal cord injury: This causes the victim contusions, bruises and swelling, however the spinal cord itself isn’t severed.

Spinal cord injury: The spinal cord in this case is partially or completely severed. A complete severing of the spinal cord always results in paralysis.

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How Do I Know If I Have a Personal Injury Claim?

A victim has a claim where a person is injured as a result of another’s negligence.

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What Are Common Causes of a Spinal Injury?
  • Car accidents;
  • Tractor trailer accidents;
  • Motorcycle accidents;
  • Slip and fall injuries;
  • Defective products;
  • Medical malpractice.

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Who Pays for My Medical Bills?

Ultimately, the person responsible for your accident should pay for your medical bills. Unfortunately, until a claim is made for insurance, or your case settles or goes to trial, you will initially be required to pay them.

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What If I Don’t Have Medical Insurance?

Sometimes a physician will provide services if you sign a lien or agreement to pay for your medical costs until your case is concluded.

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I Have Really Suffered a Lot of Pain and Discomfort as a Result of This Back Injury. What about Punishment for the Person Who Caused My Injury?

In some cases, if the person’s actions showed blatant disregard for your safety, punitive damages can be awarded.

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How Common Are Spinal Injuries?

There are approximately 10,000 new spinal injuries every year.

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Who Are the Common Victims of a Spinal Injury?

About 80% of these injuries are suffered by males, and the leading cause is auto accidents.

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What Kind of Evidence Do I Need to File a Claim?

Your attorney will want you to provide as much information as possible. This would include bringing police and accident reports, photos, witness accounts, medical bills and pay stubs. The more information you can provide, the quicker and more efficiently your lawyer can start pursuing your claim.

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I Was Hurt in a Construction Accident. What Are My Options?

If you were hurt on the job site, you will probably be eligible for worker’s compensation benefits. These benefits can be used to cover the immediate expenses you incur. In some cases, you may be able to file a separate claim against your employer or 3d party contractor.

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I Received a Back Injury from a Slip and Fall Accident. Are the Property Owners Liable?

Yes they could be. A property owner could be held liable for an accident that occurs on their premises. What will happen will depend on what steps the property owner took to maintain the safety of their property.

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Do I Need a Personal Injury Lawyer to Represent Me?

Yes. Back and spinal injuries can be very serious, and at times life changing. You may incur significant medical costs and be unable to work now and in the future. It is important to speak with a lawyer to discuss your legal options. If you are successful with a legal claim against the negligent party, you could be compensated for your medical expenses, lost wages now and in the future, as well as your pain and suffering.

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Client Reviews
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When my mom, who is suffering from dementia, faced a slip and fall personal injury lawsuit, I contacted Stephen Bilkis of the Law Offices of Stephen Bilkis & Associates. Not only did he provide a strategy for defending the claim, he also advised me on steps to take to avoid future personal liability. Whether you are the defendant or plaintiff in an injury case, I highly recommend Mr. Bilkis. S.M.
★★★★★
From the very first phone call to Stephen Bilkis' office, the staff was extremely polite and helpful in assisting me. Mr. Bilkis was honest and upfront with me from the beginning in what he projected the outcome of my case would be; in the end we got better results than either of us anticipated. He was very genuine and compassionate in understanding my situation and how this legal matter could effect not only myself but my family as well. I highly recommend this law firm and will most definitely continue using them for any future legal needs. Jarrett
★★★★★
I had my first encounter with Mr. Stephen Bilkis three years ago over the phone. He and his staff have been nothing but courtesy and professional. Their hard work ended with a large six-figure settlement for my case. I would highly recommend you contact his office. I want to give a special THANK YOU to Ms. Tricia Krapf. She always made me feel like a priority and was always kind and professional over the phone and email. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation. Celesta
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