Chicago Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer

Free Consultation and Maximum Compensation for Victims of Spinal Cord Injuries in Chicago

A Chicago spinal cord injury lawyer at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers provides dedicated representation to individuals whose lives have been changed by serious spinal injuries. As a top-rated personal injury law firm, we advocate for clients injured in motor vehicle accidents, falls, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and violent incidents. We know how devastating spinal cord injuries can be, and we fight to hold responsible parties accountable and secure fair compensation.

Spinal Cord Injury Settlements & Verdicts Recovered by Our Chicago Law Firm 

$1,400,000 Settlement – Marisol and her daughter Sofia were stopped at a red light near Chicago’s West Loop when a semi-truck delivering food to a nearby restaurant slammed into their vehicle. The driver had exceeded federally mandated driving hours in violation of NTSB rules. Both women sustained herniated discs in their lower backs, requiring long-term medical care.

$735,000 Settlement – Evelyn, a resident of a Chicago nursing home, suffered a broken leg and compression fractures to her lumbar and cervical spine after falling from an unattended wheelchair. The incident was recorded on the facility’s security cameras.

$470,000 Settlement – Michael, a Chicago railroad engineer, developed a chronic lower back injury after years of repetitive strain and heavy lifting on the job. Despite ongoing treatment, his pain restricted his ability to work in his specialized role.

What Makes Us the Best Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys in Chicago

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our top-rated Chicago catastrophic injury attorneys have earned a reputation for securing significant results for injured clients across Illinois. We have recovered over $450 million in verdicts and settlements and gained recognition from Super Lawyers and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. We combine legal skill with access to medical experts to build the strongest possible case, always aiming for maximum compensation.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Spinal Cord Injuries in Chicago?

Common causes of spinal cord injuries include the following.

Car Accident

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries in Chicago. High-speed impacts, rollovers, and rear-end collisions can generate forces strong enough to damage the spinal cord. Pedestrians and cyclists are especially vulnerable due to their lack of physical protection, and even lower-speed crashes can cause severe spine injuries.

Construction Accidents 

Spinal cord injuries on construction sites often result from falls off scaffolding, ladders, or roofs, being struck by moving equipment, or incidents with heavy machinery. Unsafe work practices, lack of protective gear, and inadequate supervision frequently contribute to these preventable accidents in Chicago’s busy construction industry.

Medical Malpractice 

Errors in surgery or anesthesia administration can damage the spinal cord. These preventable mistakes often occur during back or neck surgeries, epidural injections, or other treatments involving the spinal column. Such cases require careful investigation by a Chicago attorney experienced in medical malpractice to identify medical professionals’ deviations from accepted standards.

What Are the Most Serious Spinal Cord Injuries?

Complete Spinal Cord Injuries

Complete spinal cord injuries involve a total loss of motor and sensory function below the injury site. Quadriplegia (tetraplegia) occurs when the damage is in the cervical spine, impairing all four limbs and often affecting breathing and organ function. Paraplegia results from injuries to the lower part of the spinal column, impacting the legs and lower body. These conditions are typically permanent, leaving the injured party dependent on assistive devices or full-time care.

Incomplete Spinal Cord Injuries

Incomplete spinal cord injuries cause partial loss of motor control or sensation below the injury site. Depending on the severity and location, victims may retain some movement, coordination, or feeling. Incomplete injuries can vary widely, with some people regaining significant function through rehabilitation, while others experience lasting impairments.

Disc-Related Spinal Injuries

Disc-related spinal injuries, including herniated discs and nerve compression, can cause severe pain, muscle weakness, and limited mobility. They are common in motor vehicle accidents, workplace incidents, and repetitive motion injuries. While these conditions may not directly damage the spinal cord, the resulting nerve impingement can significantly affect quality of life and work ability. Treatment may require surgery, physical therapy, and long-term pain management.

Chronic and Secondary Conditions

Spinal cord injuries often lead to chronic and secondary conditions that develop immediately or over time. These can include chronic pain syndromes, respiratory complications, pressure sores, sexual function issues, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Managing these complications requires ongoing medical care, specialized equipment, and in-home assistance.

What Damages Can Spinal Cord Injury Victims Recover in Chicago?

Spinal cord injury victims in Chicago can recover compensation for both financial and personal losses.

Economic damages cover the direct financial impact of the injury, including emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, assistive medical equipment, and home modifications to improve accessibility. They also include lost wages and the loss of future earning capacity.

Non-economic damages address the more personal impact of the injury, such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages acknowledge the profound changes to daily living, relationships, and independence that a spinal cord injury can cause.

Punitive damages may be awarded in rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, such as impaired driving or egregious safety violations. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct.

What Is the Average Spinal Cord Injury Payout in Chicago?

Based on Law.com’s VerdictSearch, spinal cord injury case payouts in Chicago range from $2,312 to $43,825,000, with a median award of $100,000 and an average award of $2,072,869.

Several factors influence the payout amount:

• Severity of the injury – Complete spinal cord injuries, total paralysis, or major mobility loss generally result in higher awards.
• Age of the victim – Younger victims often receive larger awards because of longer anticipated medical needs and lost earning years.
• Degree of fault – Clear evidence of negligence by the defendant strengthens the claim; comparative fault can reduce recovery.
• Insurance coverage and assets – The at-fault party’s policy limits and ability to pay can affect the total compensation recovered.

Example Spinal Cord Injury Cases Filed in Cook County

$43,051,020.38 Verdict for Nurse Paralyzed in Truck Crash

In 2016, Cynthia Kroft, a nurse in her early 50s, was rear-ended by a tractor-trailer, resulting in a fractured neck and partial paralysis. She underwent multiple surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and was permanently disabled, ending her nursing career. Her husband also claimed loss of consortium. The trucking companies stipulated liability, and the jury awarded $43,051,020.38, including $39.5M for Cynthia’s damages and $3.5M for her husband. Factors included catastrophic injury, permanent disability, and significant future medical costs.

$35,129,371.00 Verdict in Fatal I-294 Crash and Spinal Injury Case

In 2012, Aaron Swenson was killed, and Joseph LeSanche was severely injured in a five-car crash on I-294 caused by a speeding Hussmann Corp. driver in a construction zone. Swenson suffered fatal blunt force trauma and spinal cord severance, while LeSanche sustained chronic lumbar disc injuries. The defense disputed some injury claims and causation. The jury awarded $22.7M to Swenson’s estate and $12.3M to LeSanche, plus $100K in punitive damages, citing severe loss, wrongful death, and permanent impairment.

$24,473,285.00 Verdict for Quadriplegia After Police Chase Crash

In 2002, Jerry Gaston, a passenger in a vehicle struck by a fleeing driver during a police pursuit, suffered a C3-4 spinal fracture, leaving him quadriplegic. The plaintiffs argued police violated pursuit policy, contributing to the crash. The jury found the fleeing driver fully liable, awarding $24,473,285 total, including $20.8M to Gaston for medical costs, pain and suffering, and loss of normal life. Other plaintiffs with lesser injuries received smaller awards. Catastrophic injury, lifelong care needs, and liability findings drove the high verdict.

Why You Need a Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Spinal cord injury cases are among the most complex personal injury claims. Establishing accurate future care costs often demands a detailed life care plan prepared by medical experts and rehabilitation specialists. Vocational experts evaluate how the injury limits or eliminates the ability to work, while neuropsychologists assess cognitive and emotional impact. Insurance companies often undervalue these injuries, overlooking the lifetime expense of therapy, assistive equipment, and home modifications. An experienced spinal cord injury lawyer can coordinate expert testimony, prove causation, and fight aggressively to ensure you recover full and fair compensation for your lifelong needs.

How Common Are Spinal Cord Injuries in Chicago?

According to NSCISC, nationally, the annual incidence of traumatic spinal cord injury (tSCI) is estimated at 54 cases per million people. With a U.S. population of about 341 million in 2024, that equals roughly 18,421 new tSCI cases each year, excluding those who die at the scene.

According to OSHA, there have been 30 recorded workplace accidents involving spine injuries in Chicago since 2020, 13 of which were fatal, underscoring the grave risks employees face and the potential for life-changing harm beyond the workplace.

Where Do Spinal Cord Injuries Occur Most Often in Chicago?

Spinal cord injuries in Chicago most often happen in locations with a higher likelihood of collisions or dangerous conditions. Busy intersections like Western Avenue & North Avenue or Lake Shore Drive & Belmont are common crash sites involving motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. Construction zones with scaffolding, excavation work, or heavy machinery create significant risks of falls and struck-by incidents. 

Public transportation areas can see serious boarding or collision accidents. Hospitals may be the source of injury when surgical malpractice or anesthesia errors damage the spinal cord. In high-crime neighborhoods, violent assaults can also lead to penetrating or blunt force spinal trauma. A Chicago personal injury attorney can identify the cause, determine liability, and pursue full compensation.

What Laws Govern Spinal Cord Injury Claims in Chicago?

Under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116, Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning an injured party can recover damages if they are less than 50% at fault for their injuries. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault. At 50% or more fault, recovery is barred entirely.

Illinois’ Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130/) requires property owners to maintain reasonably safe conditions for lawful visitors. If hazards—such as uneven flooring, inadequate lighting, or unsafe equipment—cause a spinal cord injury, the owner may be held liable for resulting damages.

The Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) allows surviving family members to seek damages when a loved one’s death results from another party’s negligence or misconduct. Recoverable losses can include loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and funeral or burial costs.

Under the Workers’ Compensation Act (820 ILCS 305), employees who sustain spinal cord injuries on the job are generally entitled to benefits covering medical expenses, partial wage replacement, vocational rehabilitation, and, in severe cases, long-term disability payments. This applies regardless of fault.

Illinois’ Joint Tortfeasor Contribution Act (740 ILCS 100/) allows fault to be apportioned among multiple negligent parties in cases involving shared liability. It enables one defendant who pays more than their share of damages in a spinal cord injury case to seek proportional reimbursement from other at-fault parties.

Under 735 ILCS 5/2‑622, Illinois medical malpractice claims require a certificate of merit from a qualified healthcare professional. This document must state that the case has merit based on a review of the records, ensuring claims involving spinal cord injuries from medical errors meet the state’s procedural requirements before filing.

In Hilgenberg v. Kazan, 1st Dist. App. Ct. (1999), the plaintiff suffered a spinal cord infarction after undergoing cervical spine surgery. The appellate court upheld a defense verdict, making the case a notable example of the difficulty plaintiffs face in proving causation in medical malpractice claims involving spinal cord injuries.

How Long Do I Have to File a Spinal Injury Lawsuit in Illinois?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, injured parties have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Victims of spinal cord injuries caused by medical negligence have two years from the date they knew—or reasonably should have known—of the injury to file suit (735 ILCS 5/13-212).

In Illinois, surviving family members have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit under 740 ILCS 180/.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Spinal Cord Injury in Chicago?

Liability for a spinal cord injury in Chicago can fall on a range of parties, depending on how the injury occurred.

Negligent drivers may be responsible for car, truck, motorcycle, or pedestrian accidents causing spinal cord damage.

Employers may be held liable for workplace accidents under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act.

Property owners may be accountable under premises liability laws if unsafe conditions cause injury.

Hospitals and physicians may be sued for medical malpractice if errors during treatment or surgery cause or worsen the injury.

Construction site contractors may be responsible for unsafe job site conditions or OSHA violations leading to accidents.

Product manufacturers may be held liable for defective medical devices, safety equipment, or other products contributing to spinal cord injuries.

Common Defenses in Spine Injury Cases

Defendants often argue that the plaintiff’s condition existed before the accident, that the plaintiff shares fault for their injuries—such as not wearing a seatbelt or proper fall protection—or that the incident did not cause the spinal damage. These defenses aim to reduce or eliminate compensation. 

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we counter these strategies with comprehensive medical records, detailed imaging, and records showing the injury’s connection to the event. We work with spinal specialists, biomechanical experts, and accident reconstructionists to establish causation and rule out unrelated conditions. 

By presenting expert testimony and thoroughly documenting the timeline of symptoms, we effectively challenge claims of comparative fault and pre-existing conditions, ensuring juries and insurers see the full impact of the injury and the defendant’s role in causing it.

How to Strengthen Your Spinal Injury Case

To build the most substantial possible spinal injury claim, start by seeking immediate medical attention and a complete neurological evaluation to document the injury’s extent. Preserve all diagnostic imaging, including MRI and CT scans, as they provide objective proof of spinal damage. 

Keep a detailed journal of your pain levels, physical limitations, and every medical visit to establish a clear record of your daily challenges. Avoid discussing your injury or posting updates on social media, as insurers may use this against you. Finally, hire an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer to protect your rights and preserve critical evidence.

How a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Can Help You Achieve Justice

A top-rated spinal cord injury attorney from our firm will handle the legal burdens so you can focus on healing. We arrange independent medical exams and partner with life care planners to forecast your long-term treatment needs. Our legal team calculates lost earning capacity based on your career path and injury-related limitations. 

We manage every step of the legal process, from gathering evidence and securing expert testimony to filing and litigating complex personal injury claims. Through strategic settlement negotiations or courtroom advocacy, we fight to obtain the maximum compensation possible for your injuries’ lasting effects on your life.

FAQs

How do I prove negligence in a spinal cord injury claim?

Negligence requires proving four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages. First, you must show the defendant owed you a duty of care—such as a driver’s duty to follow traffic laws or a property owner’s duty to maintain safe premises. Next, you must demonstrate they breached that duty and that breach directly caused your spinal cord injury. Finally, you must prove damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Do spinal cord injuries always result in paralysis?

No. While severe spinal cord injuries often cause paralysis, incomplete injuries may leave some motor or sensory function intact. Symptoms can range from weakness or numbness to full loss of movement. The extent depends on the injury’s location, severity, and how quickly medical treatment begins.

How long do symptoms of spinal cord injury take to develop?

Symptoms can appear immediately after the trauma or develop gradually over hours or days. In severe injuries, paralysis or loss of sensation may occur right away. In others—caused by swelling, bleeding, or inflammation—can develop over hours or days. Even mild symptoms after neck or back trauma require immediate evaluation, as delays in treatment can worsen long-term outcomes and reduce recovery potential.

What are the consequences of spinal cord injuries?

Spinal cord injuries can have life-changing consequences. Physical effects may include paralysis, chronic pain, loss of sensation, muscle spasms, or impaired coordination. Autonomic functions—such as bladder control—may also be disrupted. Secondary complications, like respiratory problems, pressure sores, and infections, are common. These injuries also have profound psychological effects, leading to depression and loss of enjoyment in life.

Do different parts of the spine result in different injuries?

The extent of injuries depends on the vertebrae and region affected:

• Cervical (C1–C7): Often causes quadriplegia, affecting arms, legs, and trunk; may impair breathing and speech.
• Thoracic (T1–T12): Typically causes paraplegia, affecting trunk and legs; arm and hand function is usually preserved.
• Lumbar (L1–L5): Can cause loss of function in hips, legs, and bladder/bowel control; arm function intact.
• Sacral (S1–S5): Often affects bladder, bowel, and sexual function; may cause weakness in hips/legs.

The higher the injury on the spine, the greater the potential loss of motor and sensory function.

What are incomplete vs complete injuries to the spine?

A complete spinal cord injury involves the total loss of motor and sensory function below the injury site, with both sides of the body equally affected. This type often results in permanent paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia. 

In an incomplete spinal cord injury, some signals between the brain and body still pass through the damaged area. Victims may retain partial movement, sensation, or control, depending on which nerves remain intact.

What does spinal cord injury treatment involve?

Treatment begins with emergency stabilization to prevent further injury—often using backboards, neck collars, or surgery to decompress and stabilize the spine. Hospital care may include high-dose steroids to reduce swelling, pain management, and prevention of complications like blood clots or infections. Once stable, patients typically enter rehabilitation, which can involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, assistive devices, and adaptive training for daily living. Ongoing care often requires coordination between neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, physiatrists, and therapists. Many patients also benefit from counseling and peer support to address the psychological impact of living with a spinal cord injury.

Can you completely recover from a spinal cord injury?

Full recovery is rare, especially in complete spinal cord injuries where all function below the injury site is lost. Incomplete injuries may allow partial or substantial recovery with aggressive rehabilitation. However, outcomes vary greatly based on the injury’s severity, location, and speed of treatment.

Who can file a wrongful death claim in Illinois?

Under Illinois law, a wrongful death claim must be filed by the personal representative of the deceased’s estate, often named in the will or appointed by the court. Eligible beneficiaries—typically a surviving spouse, children, or in some cases, parents—receive any damages awarded.

Are spinal cord injuries preventable?

Public awareness, training, and enforcement of safety laws play a significant role in reducing spinal cord injury incidence. Wearing seatbelts, using helmets when cycling or riding motorcycles, and following fall-prevention practices on worksites can greatly reduce risk. Avoiding reckless driving, securing heavy objects to prevent falling hazards, and adhering to safe lifting techniques also help. Preventing surgical errors and following proper anesthesia protocols can prevent medical-related spinal damage.

How much does a spinal cord injury attorney cost in Chicago?

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. Our fee is only collected if we successfully recover compensation for you through a settlement or verdict.

Can I recover compensation for home modifications and wheelchairs?

Yes. Home modifications, wheelchair costs, and other assistive devices fall under economic damages in a spinal cord injury claim. These expenses can include installing ramps, widening doorways, modifying bathrooms, and purchasing motorized chairs or adaptive vehicles.

Book a Free Case Review with a Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer Near You

If you or a loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury due to someone else’s negligence, the top-rated legal team at Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to help. We offer a free case review to answer your questions, explain your rights, and outline a plan to pursue maximum compensation. 

Our personal injury attorneys in Chicago understand how devastating spinal cord injuries can be, and will fight for every dollar you need to rebuild your life. Call us at (888) 424–5757 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free consultation.

Our downtown office, near the Richard J. Daley Center, Dirkson United States Courthouse, and the Chicago Workers’ Compensation Commission, offers convenient access from Aurora, Joliet, and Waukegan via I-90, I-94, and I-290.

Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers

225 W Wacker Dr #1660
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (847) 835-8895
Toll Free: (888) 424-5757

We also serve clients from Buffalo Grove, Champaign, Elgin, Peoria and throughout Illinois.

Resources: [1] National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, [2] National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center, [3] National Library of Medicine, [4] National Library of Medicine

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.