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The physical discomfort, emotional distress, and potential financial strain of a spinal or back injury can drastically disrupt everyday life, transforming even simple tasks into daunting challenges. Since 1895, Good & Murray Smith LLP has stood alongside individuals and families in Ireland, fighting tirelessly for those seriously impacted by the negligence or wrongdoing of others. We understand the human cost associated with these injuries, and we are committed to securing the best possible outcome for every client.
The spinal region is a highly intricate structure comprising bones (vertebrae), discs, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Almost all bodily movements rely on the proper functioning of this area. Even a seemingly minor injury can escalate quickly, resulting in chronic pain, limited mobility, or, in the most severe cases, partial or total paralysis.
Common spinal cord injuries include:
These conditions often restrict your capacity to work, exercise, or even carry out simple daily tasks.
When these accidents arise due to another party’s lack of care or failure to maintain safe standards, you may have grounds to pursue compensation.
A spinal cord injury is heartbreaking and can drastically affect every aspect of your life. Besides physical pain, it may lead to:
Document all symptoms, treatment, and follow-up care. Obtain written reports from your GP or specialist verifying the nature of your injury.
Back and spinal injury claims can involve complex medical and legal issues. Our lawyers at Good & Murray Smith LLP liaise with medical professionals, gather expert opinions, and assemble a robust case on your behalf.
In most personal injury cases, you must submit an application to the Injuries Board (also known as PIAB). We manage the application process, ensuring your documentation (medical reports, receipts, and relevant evidence) is submitted accurately and on time.
If the Injuries Board’s assessment is acceptable to both parties, the claim can settle at that stage. Should the at-fault party contest liability or offer insufficient compensation, we stand ready to initiate court proceedings.
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident or from the date you first realised the seriousness of your injury to lodge a claim. This timeframe is crucial. Evidence can become harder to collect the longer you wait, so we encourage prompt action.
Spinal cord injuries are addressed in Ireland’s Personal Injuries Guidelines, which provide compensation ranges based on the injury’s severity and impact on the individual’s life. For instance, the guidelines suggest that compensation for quadriplegia (tetraplegia) can range from €400,000 to €550,000, while paraplegia may attract awards between €320,000 and €450,000.
These figures are approximate and each situation is assessed individually. Your actual compensation may be much higher or lower than these estimates. We emphasise obtaining expert medical reports to accurately reflect the scope of your pain, lost income, and ongoing care needs.
In most personal injury claims, the total compensation is determined by adding general damages, which address pain and suffering, to special damages, which cover quantifiable losses such as medical bills and lost wages.
You generally have two years from the date of the accident to pursue a claim under the Civil Liability and Courts Act 2004. Also, it is vital to give written notice to the party you hold responsible within two months of the accident.
Yes, you can claim if the injury resulted from negligence, such as poor maintenance of the sports facility, defective equipment, or unsafe instructions from a coach or organiser. You only have to prove that the responsible party failed in their duty of care, which led to your injury.
Yes. Even if you had a pre-existing condition, you can still make a claim if the accident worsened your condition. The compensation may account for the aggravation rather than the original condition itself. A thorough medical report will be key to distinguishing between pre-existing issues and new injuries
Delayed symptoms are common with back injuries. You can still file a claim if you can establish that the accident caused the injury. Consulting a doctor and documenting the connection between the accident and your symptoms is essential for your case.
Yes. If repetitive tasks, poor ergonomics, or lack of proper training led to your injury, your employer may be liable for failing to provide a safe working environment. Evidence such as job descriptions, work practices, and medical records will support your claim.
If more than one party is at fault (e.g., a car accident involving multiple drivers), you can still make a claim. Liability will be divided among the responsible parties based on their contribution to the incident.
Yes. Compensation can include future costs for surgeries, physiotherapy, assistive devices, or long-term care. A medical expert’s report outlining your ongoing needs will strengthen this aspect of your claim.
No. You don’t have to leave your job to make a claim. However, if your injury affects your ability to work or limits your career prospects, these losses can be factored into your compensation as special damages.
If you have suffered a spinal or back injury which you believe was caused by someone else’s negligence, get in touch. Good & Murray Smith’s solicitors are experts in high value claims and have the experience necessary to ensure a strong financial recovery. For a confidential discussion about your claim, reach out to our team today.
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If you’ve been injured and believe you may have a claim, don’t wait. Good & Murray Smith LLP is here to help. Contact us to arrange a consultation to review your case and guide you through the next steps.
