Very few injuries are more serious than those involving the spinal cord. Whether a car accident causes them, a slip and fall, or a medical malpractice, victims require constant care and attention. Their quality of life and that of family members change drastically.
At Bogoroch & Associates LLP, our Toronto spinal cord injury lawyers represent individuals and families in Toronto and across Ontario who are coping with the devastating effects of spinal injuries caused by negligence. We understand that after a catastrophic injury, people often face uncertainty, emotional stress, financial pressure, and major changes to their future.
Our firm has extensive experience handling complex catastrophic injury claims, including spinal cord injuries arising from motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and medical negligence. We work closely with leading medical specialists, rehabilitation professionals, and life-care experts to help clients pursue the compensation and support they need for the future.
At Bogoroch & Associates LLP, we believe injured individuals deserve compassionate legal representation during one of the most difficult periods of their lives. Our team is committed to guiding clients through the legal process with care, professionalism, and a strong focus on achieving meaningful results.
If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury in Toronto or anywhere in Ontario, we are here to help you understand your legal rights and options.
What is a Spinal Cord Injury?
A spinal cord injury happens when there is damage to the spinal cord, which is the group of nerves that carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. The spinal cord runs from the base of the brain down through the back. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, a person may experience partial or complete loss of movement, sensation, or bodily function below the injured area.
Spinal cord injuries can occur suddenly and often have long-lasting consequences. Some people recover partial function over time, while others may face permanent impairments that significantly affect their independence and quality of life.
These injuries may impact:
- movement;
- sensation in the arms or legs;
- balance and mobility;
- bladder and bowel function;
- chronic pain levels; and
- ability to work and perform daily tasks.
Beyond the physical effects, spinal cord injuries can also place enormous emotional and financial strain on individuals and families. At Bogoroch & Associates LLP, we understand the challenges clients face after a catastrophic injury and work to help them secure the resources they need moving forward.
Types of Spinal Cord Injuries
Complete Spinal Cord Injuries
- A complete spinal cord injury results in a total loss of sensation and motor function below the site of the injury. These injuries are often permanent and can have a major impact on a person’s independence, mobility, and day-to-day life.
Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries
- An incomplete spinal cord injury means some movement or sensation remains below the injured area. The recovery outcomes can vary widely from person to person, and while some individuals regain function over time, others may continue to experience long-term physical limitations.
Paraplegia
- Paraplegia typically involves paralysis affecting the lower half of the body, including the legs. Individuals living with paraplegia may require wheelchairs, mobility aids rehabilitation, and ongoing support with daily activities.
Quadriplegia (Tetraplegia)
- Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, is the partial or total paralysis of both the arms and legs. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term support.
Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries We Handle
- Motor vehicle collisions;
- motorcycle and bicycle accidents;
- pedestrian accidents;
- slip and falls;
- trip and falls;
- workplace accidents;
- sports and recreational accidents; and
- medical and surgical negligence.
Is a Spinal Cord Injury a Catastrophic Injury in Ontario?
In many cases, spinal cord injuries are classified as catastrophic impairments under Ontario law because of the profound and long-term impact they can have on a person’s life.
A catastrophic impairment designation can significantly affect the amount of accident benefits and compensation available to an injured person. This designation may provide access to increased medical, rehabilitation, attendant care, and long-term support benefits.
Individuals living with spinal cord injuries often require:
- ongoing physiotherapy and rehabilitation;
- attendant or personal care assistance;
- specialized medical equipment;
- wheelchairs and mobility devices;
- home renovations for accessibility;
- vehicle modifications; and
- long-term medical monitoring.
The financial costs associated with a spinal cord injury can be substantial and may continue for years or even decades after the accident. At Bogoroch & Associates LLP, our lawyers work with medical experts, rehabilitation professionals, and life-care planners to properly assess the long-term impact of catastrophic spinal injuries and pursue fair compensation.
What Compensation Can be Claimed in a Spinal Cord Injury Case?
- Pain and suffering;
- past and future income loss;
- cost of future care;
- attendant care;
- rehabilitation and therapy;
- medical equipment and assistive devices;
- home and vehicle modifications; and
- out-of-pocket expenses
The Spinal Cord Injury Claim Process in Ontario
- Initial Consultation and Investigation: Our lawyers review the circumstances of the accident, assess liability, and explain the legal process.
- Medical Records and Imaging Review: We gather medical records, diagnostic imaging, surgical reports, and other treatment documentation.
- Expert Medical Opinions and Functional Assessments: Independent medical experts may assess the nature and severity of the injury and its long-term impact.
- Liability Assessment: We investigate who may be legally responsible for the injury and gather supporting evidence.
- Damages and Future Care Planning: Our legal team works with experts to assess financial losses, rehabilitation needs, and future care costs.
- Examination for Discovery: Each party’s lawyer has the opportunity to ask the other party questions to gather information about the facts, injuries and issues involved in the case.
- Mediation: Spinal cord injury claims may be resolved through mediation.
- Trial if Required: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our lawyers are prepared to take the matter to trial.
Why Choose Bogoroch for a Spinal Cord Injury Claim in Toronto
At Bogoroch & Associates LLP, we have extensive experience representing individuals who have suffered severe and life-changing injuries across Ontario, including catastrophic spinal cord injuries.
Our lawyers understand the complex medical and legal issues involved in these claims and work closely with leading medical professionals, rehabilitation specialists, and life-care experts to help clients build strong cases and access the support they need for the future.
While many spinal cord injury claims are resolved through negotiation or mediation, we prepare every case thoroughly and are always ready to proceed to trial when necessary. Our firm proudly represents clients throughout Toronto, the GTA, and communities across Ontario, and we are committed to providing compassionate, responsive, and client-focused representation at every stage of the legal process.
We also offer contingency fee arrangements, meaning our clients do not pay legal fees unless compensation is successfully recovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a spinal cord injury considered catastrophic in Ontario?
Many spinal cord injuries qualify as catastrophic under Ontario law due to the serious and long-term impact they have on a person’s life and functioning.
How much compensation can be claimed for a spinal cord injury?
The amount depends on factors such as the severity of the injury, medical expenses, future care needs, income loss, and the long-term impact on quality of life.
How long does a spinal cord injury lawsuit take?
Every case is different. Some claims settle within months, while more complex cases involving catastrophic injuries may take several years.
What evidence is needed to prove a spinal cord injury claim?
Medical records, imaging results, expert opinions, rehabilitation reports, accident investigations, and witness evidence may all be used to support a claim.
Can spinal cord injuries caused by medical negligence be claimed?
Yes. If negligent medical treatment, delayed diagnosis, or surgical errors caused or worsened a spinal cord injury, a medical malpractice claim may be available.
Can Bogoroch represent clients outside Toronto?
Yes. Bogoroch & Associates LLP represents clients across Toronto and Ontario, including Mississauga, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Vaughan, North York, York, Thunder Bay, Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Barrie, Sault Ste. Marie, Milton, the GTA, Ottawa, London, Brampton, Windsor, Markham, Guelph, Oshawa, Kingston, Sudbury, Newmarket, Peterborough, Whitby, Sarnia, Georgetown, Orangeville, Woodstock, Cornwall, Lakefield, Bancroft, and North Bay.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a spinal cord injury, contact a spinal cord injury lawyer in Toronto today at 416 599-1700.
