Living with a spinal cord injury changes everything. In an instant, your life is turned upside down—physically, emotionally, and financially. Whether your injury happened in a car accident, at work, or due to someone else’s carelessness, one thing is certain: the road ahead will be challenging.
Adjusting to life with a spinal cord injury isn’t easy, but you are not alone. Resources are available in your community and nationally to help you. In addition, the law protects you from discrimination and further adversity.
Whether you’re trying to cover mounting medical bills, apply for disability benefits, or hold someone accountable for their actions, there are steps you can take to rebuild your future.
If someone else’s actions caused your injury, time is critical. The right attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve to cover medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.
At William D. Shapiro Law, Inc., our San Bernardino spinal cord injury lawyers will help you find valuable resources and obtain the compensation you need to move forward in your life. Call us today to begin learning more about your legal options.
Adjusting to Life with a Spinal Cord Injury
A spinal cord injury doesn’t just affect mobility—it can change your entire lifestyle. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, you may face challenges like:
- Physical adjustments (e.g., using a wheelchair or adaptive equipment).
- Emotional struggles, such as coping with grief, frustration, or depression.
- Financial pressures like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income.
Building Your Support Network
No one should go through this alone. Spinal core injury survivors and their families must build a solid support system. While family and friends are often your first line of support, don’t underestimate the power of your community. Local and online support groups, like those offered by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, connect you with others who understand what you’re going through. In addition, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and mental health counselors are key partners in your recovery process.
Essential Resources for People with Spinal Cord Injuries
Medical and Rehabilitation Resources
Recovering from a spinal cord injury often involves a mix of medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation. Here’s where to start:
- Spinal Cord Injury Specialists: Many hospitals and clinics have dedicated SCI programs that provide specialized care.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Facilities in San Bernardino like the California Sports and Spine Center, Loma Linda University Health, and Ballard Rehabilitation Hospital focus on comprehensive rehab to improve mobility and independence.
- Assistive Devices: Technology like motorized wheelchairs, exoskeletons, and voice-activated home systems can help you adapt to new challenges.
Financial Assistance Programs
While the cost of living with a spinal cord injury can be overwhelming, some programs can ease the burden:
- Insurance: Health insurance and Medicaid/Medicare often cover some medical and rehab expenses.
- Nonprofit Grants: Organizations like the United Spinal Association offer grants for assistive devices, home modifications, and therapy.
- Disability Benefits: If your injury limits your ability to work, you may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Education and Employment Opportunities
A spinal cord injury doesn’t have to stop you from pursuing education or a career. Programs like Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) help people with disabilities find training, adapt their skills, and return to the workforce. Additionally, many colleges offer accommodations like wheelchair-accessible campuses and adaptive technology.
Legal Rights for People with Spinal Cord Injuries
The ADA is a cornerstone of disability rights in the U.S. It prohibits discrimination and ensures access in the workplace. Employers with 15 or more employees must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified workstations or flexible schedules. In addition, businesses, schools, and government facilities are required to make their spaces wheelchair-accessible. If you believe your rights under the ADA are being violated, you can file a complaint with the Department of Justice or your local disability rights organization.
Navigating Accessibility Challenges
Even with legal protections like the ADA, people with spinal cord injuries often encounter barriers in housing, transportation, and public spaces. Advocating for your needs is an important part of living independently.
- Housing: Landlords must make reasonable accommodations, such as installing ramps or widening doorways. If you face resistance, disability advocacy groups can help mediate.
- Travel: Airlines and transportation companies must accommodate passengers with disabilities, but you may still encounter issues like damaged wheelchairs. Don’t hesitate to file complaints or seek legal support if needed.
Contact Our San Bernardino Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers Today
Adjusting to life with a spinal cord injury is undoubtedly challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Whether you need emotional support, financial assistance, or legal advocacy, the spinal cord injury attorneys at William D. Shapiro Law, Inc., are here to help you.
We can help ensure you get the compensation you need to rebuild your life after a devastating spinal cord injury. Don’t wait until the bills pile up—contact us at (909) 890-1000 or fill out our confidential contact form today, and we’ll call you back.
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