Nerve damage can have a significant impact on a person’s health, mobility, independence and quality of life. Depending on the nature and severity of the injury, nerve damage may result in pain, numbness, weakness, reduced movement or permanent loss of sensation.
If you have suffered nerve damage because of an accident, medical treatment or another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to pursue a claim for compensation. At Kerrigan Solicitors, we can advise you about your legal options and the steps involved in making nerve damage claims in Ireland.
What Is Nerve Damage?
Nerves carry signals between the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body. Damage to a nerve can interfere with these signals and may cause a range of symptoms.
Nerve injuries can occur in different circumstances. They may result from accidents, workplace injuries, road traffic accidents or surgical procedures. In some cases, nerve damage can occur because of medical negligence.
The effects of a nerve injury can vary considerably. Some people may recover with treatment, while others may experience ongoing symptoms requiring medication, physiotherapy, surgery or other forms of care.
When Can You Make a Nerve Damage Claim?
Whether you have grounds for a nerve damage compensation claim will depend on the circumstances in which the injury occurred.
For example, if nerve damage resulted from an accident caused by another person’s negligence, there may be grounds for a personal injury claim. Similarly, where nerve damage occurred during medical treatment, it may be necessary to investigate whether the appropriate standard of medical care was provided.
Importantly, experiencing nerve damage following treatment does not automatically mean that medical negligence occurred. Each case requires careful consideration of the medical evidence and the circumstances surrounding the injury.
Medical Evidence and Nerve Injury Claims
Medical evidence is an important part of many nerve injury claims. Medical records, diagnostic tests and specialist reports may help establish the nature and extent of the injury.
An independent medical expert may also be asked to provide an opinion on the injury, its likely prognosis and whether further treatment may be required.
Where the injury is permanent, evidence about its potential impact on employment, daily activities and future care requirements may also be relevant when assessing a claim.
How Is Nerve Damage Compensation Calculated?
The value of a nerve damage claim in Ireland will depend on the individual circumstances of the injured person. Factors that may be considered include the severity and duration of symptoms, pain and suffering, medical expenses, loss of earnings and potential future losses.
A serious nerve injury may have consequences that extend beyond immediate medical treatment. For example, someone may require ongoing rehabilitation or experience difficulties returning to their previous employment.
Because every injury is different, there is no standard amount of compensation that applies to all nerve damage claims.
How Kerrigan Solicitors Can Help
If you have suffered nerve damage and believe another person’s negligence may be responsible, obtaining legal advice can help you understand your options. Kerrigan Solicitors can investigate the circumstances surrounding your injury, advise you on the evidence required and explain the process involved in pursuing a nerve damage claim.
If you or a family member has suffered a nerve injury and would like some advice, contact us now for further advice at 091 820630, by email at m.kerrigan@kerrigansolicitors.ie or visit our website at kerrigansolicitors.ie.
We meet with clients throughout Ireland, including in counties such as Galway, Limerick, Clare, Dublin and Westmeath.