Overview
What you should know after a spinal cord injury in Ontario
A spinal cord injury can happen after a car accident, a slip and fall, or a work-related accident, and it can range from mild to severe. Some people experience pain and discomfort, while more serious injuries can result in paralysis. Symptoms can include pressure or pain in the neck, back, or head, along with numbness, tingling, or weakness. Getting medical attention as soon as possible is important for your health and for documenting the injury.
Your legal and insurance options usually depend on how the injury happened. If it occurred in a motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to accident benefits through insurance and may also have a claim against the at-fault driver in some cases. If it happened on unsafe property, you may have a slip and fall claim against the responsible parties. If it happened at work, your options may involve WSIB and, in some situations, a claim against a third party. Compensation can include past and future income loss, medical expenses, attendant care, other injury-related expenses, and pain and suffering. This is also why many people speak with a lawyer for motor vehicle accidents or a personal injury lawyer for slip and fall claims early, before deadlines and evidence issues create unnecessary barriers.
Common Challenges in Spinal Cord Injury Claims
Spinal cord injuries can involve complex, long-term care needs that are hard to quantify early
The severity of impairment can vary widely, from pain and weakness to paralysis
Proving future care costs often requires detailed medical and rehabilitation evidence
Income loss claims can be complicated when return-to-work capacity is uncertain
Insurers may dispute the extent of functional limitations and level of assistance required
Multiple claim streams can apply, such as accident benefits, tort claims, and WSIB coordination
Liability can be contested, especially when several parties may share responsibility
Documentation gaps can create issues, especially if symptoms change or treatment is delayed
Deadlines and procedural requirements can be strict, and early missteps can limit options
The Aaron Waxman Difference
How Can Aaron Waxman and Associates, P.C. Help?
If you suffered a spinal cord injury because of an accident, Aaron Waxman and Associates, P.C. can help you understand your rights and what compensation may be available. This can include investigating how the injury happened, identifying who may be responsible, and building the evidence needed to support your losses. Compensation can include past and future income loss, medical expenses, attendant care, and other injury-related expenses. In many cases, a claim can also include pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
Why Clients choose Us
Fighting for Your Rights with Compassion & Commitment
Real Care, Real Advocacy
We take the time to understand what you are facing, then build a plan that protects your rights and supports your next steps.
We Handle the Pressure For You
We take on insurer and employer pushback, manage deadlines, and keep your claim moving so you can focus on recovery and stability.
Talk to Aaron, Not a Substitute
Aaron Waxman isn't just the name on the door. He's the one who will be sitting down with you to discuss your situation and walk you through your options.
Recognized Among Canada's Top Firms
Aaron Waxman & Associates was named one of Canada's Top Personal Injury Boutique Law Firms for 2025 by Canadian Lawyer Magazine - recognition built on years of trusted, experienced advocacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
A spinal cord injury can cause changes to bodily functions, strength, and sensation. Symptoms can include increased pressure or pain in the neck, back, or head, as well as numbness, tingling, or weakness in certain areas of the body.
Incomplete spinal cord injuries are more common. With an incomplete injury, there can still be some degree of sensory and motor function, and symptoms can include chronic pain, numbness, and weakness. Some improvement or recovery may be possible with the right treatment. A complete spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord is completely compressed or severed. This results in paralysis on both sides of the body below the injury site, along with loss of sensory and motor function below that level.
Unfortunately, they are considered permanent. The spinal cord is directly connected to the brain, and an injury can prevent the brain from sending signals to parts of the body below the injury site.
People can recover, but a full recovery is rare. Many people with spinal cord injuries face long-term complications, including immobility.
Spinal cord injuries can happen in many types of accidents, including:
- Car accidents
- Slip and falls
- Pedestrian accidents
- Bike accidents
- Sports and recreational accidents
Compensation can include past and future income loss, medical expenses, attendant care, and other injury-related expenses. A claim can also include pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life.
If your spinal cord injury happened because of an accident, legal advice can help you understand your rights and the compensation you may be entitled to pursue.
