Average Spinal Cord Injury Settlement Amount in California (2025)

Spinal cord injuries can be absolutely devastating. They can even alter your entire life. In California, the financial compensation awarded for these injuries after an accident can vary significantly. The average spinal cord injury settlement amount in California is determined based on the severity of the injury, medical expenses, lost income, and other factors surrounding the personal injury incident.

Understanding Spinal Cord Injuries

Global estimates from 2021 suggested that the number of people living with spinal cord injuries reached 15.4 million. In the U.S., this accounts for approximately 54 cases per 1 million people. Vehicle accidents are the leading cause of such injuries at 37.7%, according to 2015 data. Falls rank second on the list of spinal injury accident causes, with violence being third.

The spinal cord is a vital part of the central nervous system. It’s responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to it can result in loss of motor control and sensation, leading to conditions like paraplegia or quadriplegia. The severity of the injury often dictates the level of medical care required. It can also impact the extent of the rehabilitation needed and your overall quality of life.

Factors Influencing Settlement Amounts

Many factors are taken into consideration when determining settlement amounts for spinal cord injuries. Some of these include:

• The severity of the injury. Complete spinal cord injuries, or those resulting in a total loss of function below the injury site, generally lead to higher compensation compared to partial injuries.
• Medical expenses. The cost of immediate medical care, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation impacts the settlement amount. The need for assistive devices, such as wheelchairs and ramps, is also considered.
• Lost wages and earning capacity. If the injury prevents you from returning to work or diminishes your overall earning potential, settlements can compensate for these financial losses.
• Pain and suffering. Non-economic damages, such as emotional stress and a loss of enjoyment in life, are considered when determining settlement amounts.
• Liability and negligence. The clarity of fault and the degree of negligence play a large role in the settlement amount.

Legal Considerations in California

California has specific laws surrounding personal injury settlements. For instance, the state follows a comparative negligence rule, which means the plaintiff’s compensation can be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

Victims must also follow the statute of limitations for their type of accident and injuries. Failing to file within the allotted time can result in foregoing the right to compensation.

There are no caps placed on personal injury compensation, except for medical malpractice cases. The goal of this cap is to provide fair compensation to the victims while balancing the interests of the healthcare providers.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Maximize Your Settlement

It can be overwhelming to navigate a spinal cord injury case in California, especially when you’re already dealing with the physical pain and trauma of the injury. Hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer can significantly improve both the outcome and value of your claim.

Some of the ways a personal injury attorney can help include:

• Accurately valuing your claim. A personal injury attorney can properly value your claim. Many victims underestimate the total damages they’re entitled to, especially the future costs necessary for treatment.
• Gathering evidence. Strong evidence creates a strong case. Attorneys know what documentation is necessary and how to obtain it. They work to gather medical records, expert medical testimony, accident reports, and witness statements.
• Litigation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, a lawyer can file a claim and represent you in court. Their litigation skills can be vital for presenting your case effectively before a judge.
• Meeting legal deadlines. California’s personal injury laws include strict deadlines. An attorney can make sure your documents are accurate and meet all the guidelines necessary for success.

FAQs

How Do I Prove a Back Injury for a Car Accident Settlement?

To prove a back injury for a car accident settlement, you’ll need a thorough medical examination with documentation. The documentation must link the injury to the accident. Diagnostic imaging could include X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. Seeking medical attention promptly after the accident can strengthen your case and prevent insurance companies from disputing your claim.

What Is a Reasonable Settlement Offer?

A reasonable settlement offer depends on the extent of your injuries, medical costs, lost wages, and any pain and suffering. A reasonable offer should cover all current and future expenses related to the injury, along with compensation for emotional distress. Consult a car accident attorney with extensive experience in dealing with these cases. They can make sure your offered settlement reflects the value of your claim.

How Much Is the Average Settlement for a Back Injury in California?

Settlements vary significantly for back injuries in California. The severity of the injury, among other factors surrounding the accident, determines the settlement amount, with more serious cases generally receiving a higher settlement. California’s comparative fault rules may also impact your settlement amount. The overall amount should include medical expenses, surgeries, time off work, and the pain and suffering endured after the accident.

How Much Does Epidural Steroid Injection Increase the Settlement?

The need for epidural steroid injections to treat back pain after a car accident can significantly increase a settlement. The injections are considered evidence of a serious or persistent injury by insurers. Settlement increases vary based on how many injections are necessary, medical costs, and if surgery becomes necessary. Documentation of the procedure and its effectiveness can make your claim stronger.

Contact a California Personal Injury Lawyer Today

Hiring a skilled personal injury lawyer is one of the most effective ways to improve your chances of success and increase the potential value of your spinal cord injury settlement. The experienced team at Corrales Law Group understands the lasting impact a spinal cord injury can have on you. We can work to thoroughly investigate your case and gather all the supporting evidence to prove it.

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We can discuss average spinal cord injury settlement amounts in California and begin building a case to improve your recovery.