A paralysis injury can change the course of your life in a single moment. Whether the result of a traffic accident, a fall, or another traumatic event, the effects go far beyond physical limitations. Medical bills, job loss, emotional strain, and changes in family roles are just a few of the challenges victims often face. If someone else’s carelessness caused your injury, Colorado law may allow you to seek financial compensation.
At the Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, LLC, we help people in Denver and across the state who are living with paralysis caused by preventable accidents.
What Leads to Paralysis Injuries in Colorado?
Paralysis often stems from trauma to the spinal cord or brain. In Colorado, we frequently see cases involving:
- Car accidents, including rollovers and high-speed collisions
- Motorcycle and bicycle crashes, which offer less protection
- Falls from heights, such as on construction sites or icy sidewalks
- Recreational injuries, including skiing and snowboarding
- Acts of violence, such as gunshot wounds or assaults
Many of these incidents involve situations where another person or company failed to act with reasonable care. When that happens, a personal injury claim may be filed to hold them legally and financially responsible.
Types and Degrees of Paralysis
Not all paralysis injuries are the same. Some involve a complete loss of movement and sensation, while others may allow for limited function. Common classifications include:
- Paraplegia – paralysis of the lower body and legs
- Quadriplegia – paralysis affecting all four limbs
- Partial paralysis – limited movement or sensation in affected areas
- Complete paralysis – total loss of function and feeling
The extent of impairment depends on the location and severity of the injury. Damage higher on the spinal cord typically results in more widespread paralysis.
Determining Liability After a Paralysis Injury
To bring a personal injury claim in Colorado, you must show that someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing caused your injury. This could be:
- A distracted or drunk driver
- A property owner who failed to address safety hazards
- A contractor who did not follow job site safety protocols
- A product manufacturer that released a defective item
Establishing fault involves gathering strong evidence. This might include accident reports, video footage, medical evaluations, and testimony from witnesses or experts. Colorado follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover damages if you were partly at fault as long as your share of responsibility is less than 50 percent. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Your Colorado Paralysis Case: Step-by-Step
When you work with a personal injury attorney, you can expect the process to unfold in a series of stages:
- Initial consultation – We review the facts and explain your legal options.
- Investigation – Our team collects records, interviews witnesses, and examines liability.
- Medical treatment – You continue care, and we track costs and outcomes.
- Demand and negotiation – We present a claim to the insurer and work to reach a settlement.
- Lawsuit if needed – If negotiations fail, we can file a lawsuit and prepare for trial.
Many paralysis injury claims settle before reaching the courtroom. We are always ready to litigate when needed to protect your rights.
Damages Available in Colorado Paralysis Cases
A paralysis injury can lead to significant financial and personal losses. Colorado law allows victims to recover both economic and non-economic damages:
Economic damages:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Physical therapy and in-home care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Home modifications and medical equipment
Non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In cases involving extreme misconduct, punitive damages may also be available. Colorado does place limits on certain types of damages, but exceptions may apply in cases involving permanent impairment or catastrophic injuries.
Contact an Experienced Denver Paralysis Lawyer
Living with paralysis means adjusting to a new reality, but you do not have to go through it alone. The Law Offices of Dianne Sawaya, LLC, helps injury victims across Denver and throughout Colorado hold negligent parties accountable. We fight for the resources you need to adapt, heal, and move forward.
If you or a loved one has suffered paralysis due to someone else’s actions, call us today to schedule a free consultation. We are here to listen, guide, and take action on your behalf.