Table of Contents

• How Much Is My Spinal Cord Injury Case Worth?
• Where Do Spinal Cord Accidents Occur in Cape Girardeau
• Fighting the Insurance Company
• What to Do After a Spinal Cord Injury Accident
• Consult with an Experienced Cape Girardeau Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Why Choose Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz

When it comes to legal representation, selecting the right team can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz stands out as a top choice for several compelling reasons:

Extensive Trial Experience

With over 100 years of combined trial experience, our legal team has successfully navigated diverse cases, showcasing a wealth of knowledge and proficiency in the field. This extensive trial experience is a testament to our ability to handle various legal matters effectively.

Proven Track Record of Success

Having recovered millions of dollars for our clients, we take pride in our proven track record of success. Our commitment to securing favorable outcomes for those we represent underscores our dedication to achieving justice and maximum compensation for our clients.

Experience and Resources

Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz possesses the experience and resources necessary to pursue the compensation you deserve. Our legal team of Cape Girardeau personal injury attorneys is well-versed in the intricacies of various cases, ensuring that we can employ effective strategies tailored to your specific situation.

No Fees Unless We Win

We understand the financial strain that legal proceedings can impose. To alleviate this concern, we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you won’t be burdened with any fees unless we secure a favorable verdict or settlement. Our commitment to this guarantee reflects our confidence in delivering positive results.

Client-Centered Approach

Our client-centered approach sets us apart. We prioritize clear communication, ensuring you are informed and empowered throughout the legal process. Your concerns become our concerns, and we strive to address them with diligence and compassion.

Choosing Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz means opting for a legal team with a rich history of success, unparalleled trial experience, a commitment to client satisfaction, and a fee structure that prioritizes your financial well-being. Entrust your case to us, and let our dedicated attorneys work tirelessly to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.

Our recent successes on behalf of our clients include:

• $20 million verdict in wrongful death case after a train collision
• $17 million verdict in a personal injury case
• $2.5 million settlement for a wrongful death electrocution case
• $2 million settlement for an auto injury case
• $1.8 million settlement for an auto accident/wrongful death case
• $1.7 million verdict for an auto injury case involving a police car
• $1.5 million settlement for an auto injury crash case
• $1.25 million settlement for an auto injury case
• $1.1 million settlement for a product liability and road design defect case
• $950,000 settlement for a medical negligence/wrongful death case
• $776,000 settlement for medical negligence against the Veterans Administration
• $600,000 settlement for an auto injury case
• $4 million verdict in an industrial explosion case
• $2.3 million verdict in a chemical exposure case
• $3.55 million settlement in an industrial brain injury case

Our Cape Girardeau office is conveniently located off Kingshighway Street, just east of the Cape Woods Conservation Area near Blues Highway 61.

1610 North Kingshighway

Suite 201

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701

How Much Is My Spinal Cord Injury Case Worth?

Numerous factors play a pivotal role in determining compensation for spinal cord injuries. These elements wield considerable influence over the amount an individual may receive in a legal claim.

Key factors shaping spinal cord injury compensation include:

• Severity of the Injury: The extent of the spinal cord injury and its profound impact on the victim’s life constitutes a primary determinant for compensation. Generally, more severe injuries resulting in long-term or permanent disability attract higher compensation.
• Medical Expenses: Crucial in calculating compensation are the comprehensive medical costs associated with spinal cord injury treatment. This includes expenses for surgeries, rehabilitation, therapy, medications, and ongoing medical care.
• Lost Income and Future Earning Capacity: Compensation accounts for the victim’s lost income due to the injury and factors in potential future earning capacity adjustments if the injury hampers their ability to earn a living wage.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical and emotional pain and a diminished quality of life resulting from the injury contribute to an increase in the overall compensation amount.
• Home Modifications and Assistive Devices: Compensation may cover costs related to adapting the victim’s residence to accommodate new needs and expenses for assistive devices like wheelchairs or mobility aids.
• Lifestyle Changes: The at-fault party must pay for any alterations in the victim’s lifestyle, such as the inability to partake in hobbies, activities, or social interactions as before the injury.
• Long-Term Care Costs: If ongoing care or assistance is necessary, compensation may cover expenses associated with hiring caregivers or obtaining support services.
• Age and Life Expectancy: The victim’s age and life expectancy play a role in compensation calculations, with younger individuals potentially requiring lifelong care and support for an extended duration.
• Liability and Negligence: Determining fault for the injury and assessing the degree of negligence involved significantly impacts the compensation amount.
• Legal Representation: The presence of a skilled Cape Girardeau spinal cord injury attorney is crucial in negotiations with insurance companies. A proficient attorney considers all relevant factors to maximize compensation.

Given the uniqueness of each spinal cord injury case, compensation amounts can vary based on specific circumstances. Consult with a knowledgeable attorney specializing in spinal cord injury cases. This guidance helps individuals understand how these factors apply to their situation and facilitates the pursuit of rightful compensation.

Where Do Spinal Cord Accidents Occur in Cape Girardeau

Spinal cord injury accidents can happen nearly anywhere, including:

• Roadways: Motor vehicle accidents, including car crashes, motorcycle collisions, and pedestrian incidents, frequently contribute to spinal cord injuries on Cape Girardeau’s roads and highways.
• Workplaces: Environments like construction sites, industrial facilities, and other workplaces pose potential risks for accidents leading to spinal cord injuries. These may result from falls from heights, machinery malfunctions, or other workplace hazards.
• Recreation Areas: Participating in recreational activities such as sports, biking, or water-related pursuits can occasionally lead to spinal cord injuries.
• Private Residences: Accidents within the home, such as slip and falls or other mishaps, can potentially cause spinal cord injuries.
• Public Places: Spinal cord injuries can transpire in public places like shopping malls, parks, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Factors contributing to these injuries may include slip and fall accidents, inadequate security, or other unsafe conditions.
• Public Transportation: Accidents involving buses, trains, or other forms of public transportation can lead to spinal cord injuries.
• Sports Venues: Sports-related injuries, particularly in contact sports, can result in spinal cord injuries within stadiums, fields, or sports venues.

Spinal Cord Injuries

In most cases, spinal cord injuries result from impactful incidents, with motor vehicle accidents standing out as a prevalent cause nationwide. However, there are various other circumstances in which accident victims may endure spinal cord injuries.

Additional causes of spinal cord injuries include:

• Falls
• Recreational Sports
• Acts of Violence
• Diseases

Similar to other personal injuries, a spinal cord injury can profoundly alter the daily life of an accident victim, redefining the way they navigate their existence. If you find yourself grappling with the aftermath of a spinal cord injury, seeking legal guidance is imperative.

We possess the skills to deliver results at Cook, Barkett, Ponder, & Wolz.

Here are examples illustrating how a spinal cord injury can impact your daily life:

• Pervasive Pain
• Altered Muscle Movement
• Decreased Muscle Tone
• Respiratory Challenges
• Reflex Changes
• Cardiovascular Impact
• Bladder and Bowel Control
• Mental Health Issues
• Sexual Health Implications

In the aftermath of an accident resulting in a spinal injury, securing skilled legal representation is paramount. Cook, Barkett, Ponder, & Wolz boast a track record of excellence, exemplified by years of successfully recovering millions of dollars for clients.

Contact us today to initiate a free initial consultation and embark on the path to comprehensive legal support.

Fighting the Insurance Company

Insurance companies are renowned for offering minimal settlement amounts. In some cases, they may even refuse to compensate spinal cord injury victims altogether.

Employing the services of an experienced spinal cord injury attorney can significantly enhance your chances of securing optimal outcomes for your claims.

Examples of tactics used by insurance companies to evade settlements include:

• Delaying the Claims Process: Insurance companies deliberately prolong the settlement proceedings to wear down accident victims, hoping they will abandon their claims and forget about the statute of limitations.
• Preying on Innocent Victims: During the investigation phase, the insurance company might contact you to discuss the accident, potentially requesting that the conversation be recorded. Some victims may mistake this contact for their own insurance company and unwittingly share information that can work against them later.
• Presenting Low Settlement Offers as Final: After conducting an investigation, an insurance company may propose a settlement amount. Typically, this offer tends to be meager, and the company may assert that it’s the final offer. If you believe the settlement is unjust, seeking legal representation is crucial.

At Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz, our legal team is well-versed in addressing each of these challenges posed by insurance companies. An experienced spinal cord injury attorney can significantly enhance the likelihood of securing a favorable and satisfactory settlement.

Attorneys possess a deep understanding of insurance companies’ tactics, familiarity with court procedures, and the ability to present your case convincingly to a judge or jury.

If you’ve suffered an injury in an accident, hiring an attorney is your best course of action.

What to Do After a Spinal Cord Injury Accident

Navigating life after a spinal cord injury (SCI) accident requires strategic steps to shape the outcome of your claim. The actions you take or neglect can significantly impact the worth of your claim. To maximize your chances of a favorable outcome, consider the following guide:

Prioritize Medical Recommendations

Always adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and diligently follow your medical treatment plan. Compliance with medical advice not only aids in your recovery but also strengthens your claim by showcasing your commitment to rehabilitation.

Financial Documentation

Retain receipts for all out-of-pocket medical expenses and costs related to the accident. This includes bills for medical treatments, medications, rehabilitation services, and any other accident-related expenditures. These receipts serve as tangible evidence of the financial impact of the SCI on your life.

Official Documentation

Obtain a copy of the police report, incident report, or any other official documents detailing the circumstances of the accident. These documents are crucial in establishing the facts surrounding the incident and can serve as valuable evidence for your claim.

Personal Journaling

Document your pain levels and the daily impact of your injuries on your life and future plans. Regularly journaling your experiences provides a personal narrative that can vividly illustrate the ongoing challenges you face. This emotional aspect adds depth to your case and helps your attorney convey the human element to the court.

Gather Comprehensive Evidence

Collect all relevant documents, including medical records, receipts, incident reports, and personal journals. The more comprehensive your evidence, the stronger your case becomes.

Providing your Cape Girardeau spinal cord injury attorney at Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz with a thorough compilation of information enhances their ability to build a compelling case on your behalf.

Consult with an Experienced Cape Girardeau Spinal Cord Injury Attorney

Seek legal representation from a skilled Cape Girardeau spinal cord injury attorney, such as those at Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz.

An experienced attorney specializing in spinal cord injuries can guide you through the legal process, assess the strength of your case, and advocate for your rights. They possess the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of SCI claims.

By diligently following these steps and collaborating with a seasoned attorney, you not only enhance your claim’s worth but also pave the way for a more comprehensive and effective legal representation. Remember, your actions in the aftermath of a spinal cord injury can profoundly influence the trajectory of your case.

Contact Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz Today About Your Spinal Cord Injury

To learn more about your legal rights and receive a no-obligation spinal cord injury case consultation, contact Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz today at (573) 335-6651 or online.

Testimonial:

I had never worked with lawyers, and at first I was scared, not knowing what to expect. When I first met with Cook, Barkett, Ponder & Wolz, I immediately breathed a sigh of relief. I’m a shy person, and they gave me confidence to speak out. The experience was very good. If you are in a similar situation, I highly recommend them. They’ll take care of everything. – Laura A.