A spinal cord injury is a serious damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis of parts of the body. This has a profound impact on life and often leads to significant compensation for damages.
Types of Spinal Cord Injury
| Category | Effects |
|---|---|
| Complete spinal cord injury | Total paralysis below the site of injury |
| Partially incomplete spinal cord injury | Limited paralysis or loss of sensation |
| Paraplegia | Paralysis of the legs (lower spinal cord) |
| Tetraplegia | Paralysis of both arms and legs (higher spinal cord) |
Impact of a Spinal Cord Injury
- Loss of mobility in limbs
- Loss of sensation in affected areas
- Complications with bladder and bowel functions
- Breathing difficulties with higher injuries
- Persistent pain complaints
- Muscle spasms and spasticity
- Risk of decubitus (pressure sores)
Damage Components
The financial impact of a spinal cord injury is often enormous:
- Home adaptations for wheelchair use
- Specially adapted transport
- Continuous care, especially in tetraplegia
- Necessary aids such as wheelchairs and hoists
- Loss of income due to disability for work
- Pain and suffering compensation in the highest categories
Pain and Suffering Compensation for Spinal Cord Injury
In the Netherlands, pain and suffering compensation for spinal cord injury belongs to the highest amounts:
- Paraplegia: between € 100,000 and € 175,000
- Tetraplegia: between € 150,000 and € 250,000
Total Damage Compensation
The total costs of a spinal cord injury can run into millions of euros due to:
- Long-term care needs
- Costs for home adaptations or relocation
- Loss of income over an entire career
- Additional expenses for aids and transport
Who funds home adaptations?
A limited part is covered by the WMO via the Westland municipality. For the remaining costs, liability is claimed from the responsible party. Sometimes moving to a suitable home is unavoidable.How are long-term care costs calculated?
The required daily care hours are determined at professional rates and calculated over the expected life expectancy.Can the damage compensation really amount to millions?
Yes, especially for young victims with a severe spinal cord injury, the claim can amount to € 5 million or more, which belongs to the highest personal injury compensation amounts in the Netherlands.Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine if my spinal cord injury is complete or partial?
In a complete spinal cord injury, there is no function or sensation below the injury, whereas in a partial injury some function remains. A doctor determines this with neurological tests and imaging such as an MRI. For advice, you can contact an expertise center in the region, such as the Sint Maartenskliniek.
Can I get an adapted home via the Westland municipality?
Via the WMO, the municipality provides basic facilities such as a stairlift. For larger adaptations or a new home, a claim often needs to be filed with the liable party. A personal injury lawyer in Westland can assist with this.
What is the amount of pain and suffering compensation for spinal cord injury?
This varies from € 100,000 to € 175,000 for paraplegia and € 150,000 to € 250,000 for tetraplegia, depending on personal circumstances. A legal expert can provide a precise estimate.
Who pays my care costs for 24-hour care?
If a third party is liable, such as after an accident, care costs are reimbursed. This includes home care or nursing home care, calculated over your life expectancy. A lawyer ensures all costs are included.
Can I still work with a spinal cord injury?
This depends on the severity and your profession. In tetraplegia, working is often impossible, while in paraplegia adapted functions are sometimes feasible. You are entitled to a vocational expert report and compensation for loss of income from the liable party.
Contact in Westland: For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland or a personal injury lawyer in the region. Cases are often handled by the District Court of The Hague.