The Statistics
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), each year there are nearly 17,000 new cases of spinal cord injuries. In the United States, the NSCISC estimates that there are between 243,000 and 347,000 individuals living with spinal cord injuries. Damage caused by spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis and can be life-threatening.
While the cause of spinal cord injuries is varied, motor vehicle crashes are the single leading cause of spinal cord injuries. Estimates show that 46% of new spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle accidents each year. Additionally, 22% are caused by falls, 16% by acts of violence including gunshots, and 12% by severe injuries while playing sports.
National Spinal Cord Month
September is National Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) Awareness Month. The bill that created the national awareness month was sponsored by Florida Senator Marco Rubio and was designed to increase public awareness around the prevalence of spinal cord injuries, support and treatment for those with spinal cord injuries, and to highlight the successes of those living with spinal cord injuries.
Each of us can spread the word and increase public awareness of spinal cord injuries. Acknowledging someone with a spinal cord injury and joining a support group such as the National Spinal Cord Injury Association’s United Spinal Team Advocacy Group can benefit thousands of injured people in the United States. Donating to charities that support research and treatment for spinal cord injuries is another great way to help. You can learn more about charities that benefit individuals with SCI by visiting the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation at https://www.christopherreeve.org and the National Spinal Cord Injury Association at https://unitedspinal.org/.
A good source of information for active wheelchair users is called New Mobility by the United Spinal Association. New Mobility aims to provide wheelchair users with important information about advocacy, travel, employment, and relationships, and can be found at http://www.newmobility.com/.
Spinal Cord Injury Prevention
In order to help prevent spinal cord injuries, we recommend that you and your loved ones use properly installed child restraints, wear seat belts, avoid distractions such as cell phone use, and never use drugs or alcohol while driving a motor vehicle. In addition, be sure to keep your home free of hazards and debris to avoid slips and falls in the house. Installing handrails on staircases helps avoid falls on stairwells. Next, avoid extreme and dangerous sports! Take time to review the pool depth before diving and confirm that it’s at least 10 feet deep. Finally, never move an individual that you think may have a spinal cord injury. Call 9-1-1 for help.
Since 1990, Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. has provided reputable legal representation to people throughout the state of Florida. The firm has helped thousands of individuals recover compensation from motor vehicle and boating accidents, slip and fall accidents, product defect and liability cases, pharmacy errors, and negligent security cases to cover medical expenses, pay bills, take care of their families, and return to work. Goldman & Daszkal, P.A. can help you get the relief you need to start living your life again after a serious injury. For a free and confidential consultation, contact Goldman & Daszkal, P.A., at (954) 428-9333.