Drivers limit their legal and financial exposure by carrying insurance. Liability insurance is mandatory, and it is also a smart investment for those who do not want to risk assuming full financial responsibility for a major collision. Some drivers only carry the minimum coverage required by law, but many invest in additional coverage to limit their liability for injuries and property damage losses. Unfortunately, if drivers cause crashes that produce spinal cord injuries, their insurance may not be enough to compensate the injured party. 

The costs of a spinal cord injury are life-changing

People talking about the impact of a spinal cord injury often focus primarily on the physical limitations experienced after the injury. However, the functional impact of a spinal cord injury also has financial consequences. People usually require the costly emergency care immediately after getting hurt. Most people accumulate six figures in medical bills the first year after their injuries, but more severe injuries can cost more than a million dollars in care in one year. Spinal cord injuries also generate ongoing care expenses. People may accrue tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional medical expenses annually for the rest of their lives. There are many other costs, including lost earnings potential and home modification expenses, that people may need to address as well. Even the most generous liability insurance policy may not fully address the devastating financial impact of a spinal cord injury. Reviewing policy paperwork and the circumstances of a car crash with a legal professional can help people evaluate their options. Alternate options for compensation, including civil litigation, could be an option in some cases.