Spinal injuries from faulty airbags can be devastating. If you or a loved one suffers such an injury in a Mississippi crash, it is crucial to act quickly and appropriately to protect your rights and access proper medical care. This article provides nine clear steps on what to do following this type of traumatic event. Speak to a personal injury attorney in Jackson for personalized assistance with your unique situation.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first priority is getting medical care right away. Spinal injuries require prompt emergency treatment to prevent permanent damage. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest hospital. Be sure to keep still and avoid moving your neck as much as possible before professionals can immobilize it. Timely medical intervention gives you the best chance of recovering mobility and sensation.
Document the Crash and Injury
While receiving initial treatment, provide doctors detailed information about the crash and symptoms. This documentation will be vital for insurance claims and potential lawsuits later. Note the time, location and any damage to vehicles involved. Explain exactly how the injury occurred and what parts of your body are impacted. Ask for copies of all exam notes and test results related to your spine.
Contact the Vehicle Manufacturer
Report the faulty airbag to the vehicle manufacturer right away. This creates an important paper trail about them being notified of the issue. Be prepared to provide the make, model, year and VIN. Explain that the airbag seems to have deployed incorrectly in an accident, failing to protect the occupants properly. Ask them to launch a formal investigation into the malfunction.
File an Insurance Claim
Work with your car insurance provider to open a claim regarding the crash. Provide details of when and where it occurred, who was involved, and the nature of the spinal injury sustained. Ask what documentation or forms are needed for processing. Be cooperative while avoiding any recorded or written statements before discussing with your attorney. Getting this claim submitted promptly is key.
Consider Filing a Lawsuit
If manufacturers or other parties are found to be at fault through negligence or misconduct, your attorney can initiate a lawsuit on your behalf. Products liability, personal injury and consumer protection laws may all apply. Lawsuits take time but can recover considerable compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering. With permanent spinal damage, the projected costs are immense.
Focus on Healing and Recovery
Throughout legal matters, make rehabilitation your central focus. Follow all prescribed treatment plans. Attend physical therapy sessions consistently. Get plenty of rest and nutritional foods. Avoid activities that could re-injure your spine. Compliance will help you regain strength, mobility and a sense of normalcy over time. A positive attitude also aids healing.
Connect with Support Groups
Find spinal cord injury support groups, both locally and online. They will understand the physical and emotional struggles you now face. You can share tips on managing pain, avoiding complications and accessing useful resources. Support groups also provide a sense of community with people who can relate to your daily challenges. Tap into this valuable, first-hand experience.
Make Lifestyle Adjustments
Your injury may necessitate certain lifestyle changes for mobility and safety. These could include using assistive devices, adapting your home or vehicle, following injury prevention guidelines and more. Discuss specific recommendations with your medical team. Make adjustments gradually and focus on maintaining as much independence as possible. Know that while difficult, these changes allow you to still enjoy life fully.
Stay Hopeful About the Future
Though spinal cord injury recovery is daunting, maintain a positive mindset. With consistent rehab, emerging treatments and time, you can regain lost abilities over months or years. Advocate for your own interests and be actively involved in your care. Celebrate each small win and milestone. Draw strength from love and support of friends and family. The road ahead may be long, but you will get through this.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal injury from a defective airbag in Mississippi, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Monge & Associates can help. With offices in 32 locations across 19 states, including Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, and Washington, Monge & Associates have the resources and expertise to handle auto defect cases across the country.
If you have been injured by a malfunctioning airbag in Mississippi, call Monge & Associates today on (888) 477-0597 for a free consultation. There are strict time limits for taking legal action, so do not delay.