Paraplegia Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in NYC

Why Hire Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek for Your Paraplegia Case

At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, P.C., we fight aggressively for New Yorkers living with paraplegia after devastating accidents. Our firm combines relentless courtroom advocacy with a compassionate, client-first approach. We know the immense physical, emotional, and financial toll spinal injuries cause—and we stand with our clients every step of the way. When you hire our firm, you work with seasoned trial lawyers who understand both the medical and legal complexities of spinal cord injuries. We listen to your story, build a powerful case for accountability, and push back on insurance companies that try to undervalue your pain or losses.

Our Track Record of Results in Spinal Cord Injury Claims

Over the years, our firm has secured more than $850 million for injury victims across New York. This record reflects our focused preparation, deep knowledge of complex injury law, and willingness to go to trial when insurers refuse fair settlements. In paraplegia and other catastrophic injury cases, we pursue maximum financial recovery for lifetime care, housing modifications, lost income, and dignity. Results vary by case, but our history shows we do not back down from large corporations, hospitals, or negligent parties who cause harm. Our work is driven by a single focus—helping injured New Yorkers rebuild their lives with security and respect.

Aggressive Advocacy with Compassionate Support

We fight hard in court, but we also understand the personal challenges you face every day. Many of our clients struggle with adapting to new realities like mobility limitations, caregiving needs, and long-term medical treatment. We connect families with support networks, rehabilitation programs, and resources throughout the city, while relentlessly pursuing justice in their cases. Our team does not just represent you; we walk beside you.

NYC Paraplegia and Spinal Cord Injuries

What is Paraplegia?

Paraplegia is paralysis that affects the lower half of the body, usually as a result of spinal cord damage in the thoracic, lumbar, or sacral regions. Depending on the severity of the injury, paraplegia can cause partial or complete loss of movement and sensation. It often requires lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment to manage daily life.

Common Causes of Paraplegia in New York Accidents

In New York, paraplegia often results from sudden trauma, including:

• Motor vehicle collisions, particularly high-speed crashes on major highways like I-87 or local city streets
• Construction accidents, including falls from scaffolding or being struck by falling objects, under New York Labor Law §§ 200, 240(1), and 241(6)
• Slip and fall incidents in unsafe premises, often involving building code violations or landlord neglect
• Acts of violence or assault
• Medical mistakes during surgery or improper treatment of spinal injuries

Any of these events can lead to spinal cord compression, fractures, or severing that changes life forever.

Long-Term Medical, Financial, and Emotional Impacts

Paraplegia is more than just a physical condition. Victims often face:

• Permanent mobility challenges requiring wheelchairs, ramps, or modified housing
• Loss of earning capacity and career opportunities
• Skyrocketing medical bills for surgeries, therapy, medication, and nursing care
• Emotional distress, depression, and strain on family relationships
• Reduced independence and loss of prior lifestyle

Because of these ongoing hardships, paraplegia cases involve significant damages intended to cover long-term care and financial stability.

Filing a Paraplegia Spinal Cord Injury Lawsuit in New York

New York Laws That Protect Spinal Cord Injury Victims

New York personal injury law allows victims of negligence to pursue compensation when another party’s careless or intentional actions cause life-altering harm. Under New York negligence principles, an injured plaintiff must prove:

• The defendant owed a duty of care.
•  The defendant breached that duty.
• The breach caused the injury.
• The plaintiff suffered damages.

In construction accident cases, New York’s “Scaffold Law” (Labor Law § 240) provides special protections for workers injured by falls, falling objects, or unsafe elevation-related risks. These laws often play a major role in spinal cord injury litigation.

Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Claims in New York

As of September 2025, New York law (CPLR § 214) generally sets a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, starting from the date of the accident. Medical malpractice claims carry a shorter two-and-a-half-year limit (CPLR § 214-a), while wrongful death actions must be filed within two years (EPTL § 5-4.1). Missing these deadlines typically bars recovery. Certain exceptions may apply, such as claims against municipal entities, which require a Notice of Claim within 90 days (General Municipal Law § 50-e). Acting quickly ensures your case meets New York deadlines and preserves evidence.

Types of Compensation Available in Paraplegia Lawsuits

Victims of spinal cord injuries in New York may pursue damages for:

• Medical expenses, including surgeries, equipment, and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and future lost earning capacity
• Costs of home or vehicle modifications
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life and companionship

New York does not cap compensatory damages in personal injury cases, meaning juries can award what they deem appropriate based on the evidence presented.

How a New York Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Investigating the Cause of the Injury

A successful paraplegia lawsuit starts with a detailed investigation. Our attorneys collect police reports, worksite safety records, eyewitness statements, photographs, and surveillance footage. We focus on uncovering every factor that caused or contributed to the injury, from defective products to hazardous property conditions.

Proving Negligence and Liability

New York applies a pure comparative negligence rule (CPLR § 1411). This means even if an injured person shares some blame, they can still recover compensation, reduced by their percentage of fault. We confront claims of shared blame head-on to ensure that defendants are held accountable for their role in causing harm.

Working with Medical Experts and Life Care Planners

Catastrophic spinal injuries require specialized medical and financial testimony. We work with neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and life care planners to show the extent of the injury and the lifetime costs associated with paraplegia. This expert support strengthens your case before judges, juries, and insurers.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies or Going to Trial

Insurance companies often attempt to settle paraplegia claims quickly and cheaply. We fight aggressively in negotiations to demand fair value. If insurers refuse to pay what your case deserves, we are fully prepared to take them to trial in New York courts. Our trial-ready approach signals to opponents that we will not tolerate lowball offers.

How to Find the Best Paraplegia Spinal Cord Injury Lawyer in NYC

Key Qualities to Look for in a New York Paraplegia Lawyer

When choosing an attorney, look for: 

• Experience handling catastrophic injury cases. 
• Proven courtroom strength and willingness to try cases. 
• Compassion toward clients and their families. 
• Strong investigative and negotiation skills. 
• Access to medical experts and financial specialists.

Questions to Ask During a Free Consultation

During your consultation, ask:

• Have you handled paraplegia or spinal cord injury cases before?
• How do you approach settlement versus trial?
• What resources will you use to build my case?
• What role will I play in the process?
• How does your fee agreement work?

The Advantage of Choosing a Spinal Cord Injury Law Firm

Choosing a firm with a history in catastrophic injury cases ensures a team that understands the stakes. At Hecht, Kleeger & Damashek, we bring decades of combined trial experience and a proven record—over $850 million for past clients. We know how to take on hospitals, corporations, and insurers and push forward until justice is served.

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