Neck/Spinal Cord Injury Action Plan
At Wallentine Injury Law, we represent clients with a wide range of injuries, and we take every case seriously. However, we recognize that some injuries are more severe and life-altering than others. Neck and spinal cord injuries are among the most dangerous conditions our clients face. Immediately following an accident—whether it involves a car, motorcycle, truck, or bicycle—a neck/spinal cord injury can quickly escalate into a life-or-death emergency. In fact, 25% of spinal cord injury damage occurs after the initial event. What you and your loved ones do in the moments after such an injury can have a profound impact on your case, your recovery, and even your life.
Our experienced attorneys and paralegals have prepared the following information to help you take appropriate emergency action in the event of a neck or spinal cord injury. While it can be difficult to imagine yourself or a loved one in such a situation, it’s important to be prepared. In the aftermath of a Kansas neck or spinal cord injury, your knowledge and quick response could make all the difference.
4 Emergency Actions After a Neck/Spinal Cord Injury
The steps you take immediately after a neck/spinal cord injury—often referred to as “emergency actions”—can significantly influence the recovery process. While actions taken throughout the entire healing journey are important, those taken in the moments directly following the injury can be especially critical in minimizing long-term damage.
It’s important to understand that even the best emergency care cannot guarantee the prevention of paralysis or other complications. The nature and severity of the injury ultimately determine the extent of recovery. However, according to the Mayo Clinic, the following emergency actions can improve the likelihood of a more positive outcome:
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
The first and most critical step after a neck/spinal cord injury is to call 911 for emergency medical help. These types of injuries require highly specific care that is best administered by trained medical professionals.
Even if emergency responders are not immediately available, you should still contact them to receive guidance on how to safely assist the injured person until help arrives. Regardless of whether the injury is visibly apparent, immediate medical attention is essential.
Taking this step—without delay—can mean the difference between life and death in the aftermath of an accident.
2. Keep Still
After a suspected neck or spinal cord injury, it is crucial to keep the injured person as still as possible while administering first aid. This means avoiding any movement—especially in the head and neck—to support spinal immobilization. Until emergency personnel arrive with proper equipment such as cervical collars, backboards, or scoop stretchers, the safest course of action is to ensure the individual remains motionless.
If the injured person shows no signs of circulation or a pulse, first aid must be administered with extreme care. For those not breathing, begin CPR by gently lifting the jaw forward—rather than tilting the head back—to open the airway. For those with no pulse, proceed with chest compressions.
3. Keep the Helmet On
If it is presumed that an individual has suffered a neck or spinal cord injury, and they are wearing a protective helmet, do not remove it. Whether the helmet is for sports, motorcycle riding, or bicycling, removing it can jostle the head and neck and potentially worsen spinal cord damage. If the helmet has a face shield, you may carefully remove the shield to access the airway—but leave the helmet in place until trained medical professionals arrive.
At Wallentine Injury Law, we strongly recommend wearing a helmet when engaging in any activity that carries a risk of head or neck injury, regardless of what your state’s laws may require. While helmets may not completely prevent serious head trauma, they significantly reduce the risk. According to the Cleveland Health Clinic, helmets may reduce serious head injuries by 60%.
A neck or spinal cord injury mixed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a deadly combination—one we hope none of our clients ever have to endure. If you or a loved one has suffered this kind of trauma, our team is here and ready to help.
4. Don’t Roll the Person Alone
If the injured individual is unable to breathe or is choking on blood or vomit, it may become necessary to roll them onto their side. Otherwise, keeping them completely still is the safest option.
When rolling the person becomes absolutely necessary, two people must work together to keep the head, neck, and spine properly aligned. One person should stabilize the head while the other supports the body from the side. Carefully coordinate your movements to maintain a straight line through the head, neck, and back throughout the process.
Neck/Spinal Cord Injury Follow-Up Actions
After immediate medical attention and first aid have been provided, the long-term recovery journey begins. At Wallentine Injury Law, we’ve represented hundreds of clients suffering from neck and spinal cord injuries, and we understand just how difficult the road to recovery can be—for both you and your loved ones.
As your trusted legal team, we’re here not only to help you secure the compensation you deserve, but also to listen, support, and meet your needs throughout the process. We handle the legal challenges, medical billing issues, and insurance battles so you can focus entirely on healing and returning to a sense of normalcy.
Every neck/spinal cord injury is unique. Recovery depends on a variety of factors, including the injury’s location and severity, any preexisting conditions, and your overall health. Your journey may look different from someone else’s—but whatever the path, Wallentine Injury Law will be with you every step of the way.
Here is a general overview of the recovery process that many neck and spinal cord injury victims experience:
- Hospital Stay- Most neck and spinal cord injuries require an extended hospital stay, depending on the severity of the injury. During this phase, the injured person receives critical care, which may include surgery, imaging, and other necessary interventions.
- Rehabilitation- Rehabilitation is often the most crucial stage of the recovery process. During this time, the injured person undergoes intensive treatments and therapies aimed at regaining function and monitoring for additional complications. For many neck and spinal cord injuries, the greatest potential for physical recovery occurs within the first 18 months.
- Long-Term Treatment- Because neck and spinal cord injuries frequently result in permanent damage, long-term treatment plays a key role in overall recovery and quality of life. This stage often involves continued rehabilitation and the management of any new or ongoing complications.
Neck and spinal cord injury treatment is complex and unpredictable. For the best chance at a successful recovery, both physically and legally, it’s essential to follow all of your doctors’ instructions closely.
Contact a Kansas Neck/Spinal Cord Injury Attorney
After emergency medical needs have been addressed, it’s equally important to contact a trusted Kansas neck and spinal cord injury attorney as early as possible in your recovery process. Serious injuries demand serious legal representation. Comprehensive compensation is only possible with the help of an experienced attorney who can advocate for your rights.
Don’t navigate a neck or spinal cord injury alone. Call Wallentine Injury Law at 913-934-6333 or contact us online for a free consultation today. We are here to stand by your side throughout every stage of your recovery.
