A spinal cord injury changes everything — causing paralysis, loss of independence, and the need for lifetime care. When someone else’s negligence is to blame, Louisiana law allows you to recover compensation for the harm caused and the lifetime care you’ll need.

Emergency room visits, surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, physical therapy, specialized equipment, and any ongoing doctor visits you need are all covered.

Most spinal cord injury victims can’t return to their old jobs. We fight for the paycheck you’re missing now and the total loss of future earnings for the remainder of your life.

This includes round-the-clock nursing care, attendant support, wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms, widened doorways, and home modifications so your loved one can live with dignity and independence.

We fight for you to receive compensation for the physical pain, emotional trauma, loss of independence, and the dignity and life your loved one had before the injury took it all away.

Whether it just happened or you’re dealing with ongoing complications, these steps protect you and your case:

See a spinal cord specialist immediately. Proper treatment in the first hours and days can impact your recovery and function.

Keep records of all treatments, surgeries, medications, therapy sessions, and how your injury has changed your life.

They’ll try to minimize your injuries or rush you into a settlement before you know the full extent of your damages.

We work with spinal specialists, life care planners, and economists to prove the full cost of your lifetime care needs.

Our Team has spent decades securing lifetime care and maximum compensation for catastrophically injured victims across Louisiana. See the entire team.

Richard J. Arsenault

Michael S. Koch

Wesley J. Gralapp

Over 40 years handling spinal cord injury cases across Louisiana. We know the devastating impact paralysis has on every aspect of your life.

We consult with spinal specialists, life care planners, vocational experts, and economists to calculate your true lifetime needs and losses.

Our Attorneys are always available, Our Staff knows you by name, and we handle the fight so you can focus on rebuilding your life.

Total loss of sensation and function below the injury site. Often results in quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs) or paraplegia (paralysis of lower body and legs).

Partial loss of function below the injury. Some sensation or movement may remain, but significant disability and limitations persist.

Injuries to C1-C8 vertebrae can cause quadriplegia, inability to breathe without assistance, and complete dependence on caregivers.

Injuries to T1-T12 vertebrae typically cause paraplegia, loss of trunk control, and wheelchair dependence.

Injuries to L1-S5 vertebrae affect hip and leg function, bladder and bowel control, and sexual function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What compensation can I recover for a spinal cord injury?
Medical bills (now and future), lifetime care costs, home and vehicle modifications, lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship for your spouse.

How much is a spinal cord injury case worth?
The lifetime cost of care can be in the millions of dollars depending on how severe the injury is and your age. We fight for full compensation.

How long will my spinal cord injury case take?
Spinal cord injury cases are among the most complex personal injury claims because the full extent of your injuries and long-term care needs must be fully understood before settling. Settling too early can leave you without the money you’ll need years down the road. Some cases resolve in months, others take longer — but we won’t rush you into a settlement that doesn’t cover everything you’re owed. We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

The insurance company offered me a settlement. Should I take it?
Don’t accept anything without talking to us first. In spinal cord injury cases, insurance companies make early offers before the full picture of your long-term needs is clear. Once you sign, you can’t go back for more — even if your condition worsens or your care costs more than expected. We make sure any settlement fully accounts for your lifetime of care before you agree to anything.

How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Louisiana?
Generally two years from the accident date. Call us right away so we can protect your rights and start building your case. We’re available 24/7 at (318) 561-2500.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Louisiana law allows you to recover money even if you share some fault. If you were 30% at fault, you can still recover 70% of damages. We’ll fight to minimize your fault and maximize what you get.

Can I afford to hire you?
Yes. We only get paid if you win your case. We cover all costs for medical experts and specialists upfront.

Will I have to go to court?
Many cases settle without going to trial, but we’re always ready to fight in court if needed. Insurance companies know this, which helps us get better settlements.

What if my loved one is now paralyzed and can’t work?
We calculate what they would have earned over their entire lifetime, including benefits, retirement, and raises they would have gotten.