A transverse myelitis causes serious damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis and permanent limitations. This often results in high compensation payments and complex legal proceedings.
Types of Transverse Myelitis
| Category | Effects |
|---|---|
| Complete transverse myelitis | Total paralysis below the damaged area |
| Partial transverse myelitis | Partial loss of sensation or movement |
| Paraplegia | Paralysis of the legs (lower spinal cord) |
| Tetraplegia | Paralysis of both arms and legs (higher spinal cord) |
Impact of Transverse Myelitis
- Limited mobility due to paralysis
- Loss of sensory functions
- Complications with bladder and bowel functions
- Breathing difficulties with higher injuries
- Persistent pain complaints
- Muscle spasms and spasticity
- Risk of decubitus (pressure sores)
Overview of Damage Compensation
The financial impact of transverse myelitis is significant:
- Costs for home adaptations (making wheelchair-accessible)
- Adapted vehicles for transport
- Continuous care provision (especially in tetraplegia)
- Necessary assistive devices such as wheelchairs and hoists
- Loss of income due to disability for work
- Non-pecuniary damages in the highest categories
Non-Pecuniary Damages for Transverse Myelitis in Zoetermeer
In the Netherlands, non-pecuniary damage compensation for transverse myelitis is among the highest:
- Paraplegia: between € 100,000 and € 175,000
- Tetraplegia: between € 150,000 and € 250,000
Total Damage Claims
The total costs resulting from transverse myelitis can run into millions of euros due to:
- Permanent care needs
- Adaptations to or purchase of a new home
- Income loss over the entire career
- Costs for assistive devices and special transport
Who funds home adaptations in Zoetermeer?
The municipality provides limited compensation for adaptations via the WMO. For larger costs, such as a fully accessible home, a claim can be filed against the liable party. Often, moving to a suitable home is necessary.How are long-term care costs calculated?
The required daily care is determined and multiplied by professional rates, capitalised over the victim's expected life expectancy.Can a damage claim really amount to millions?
Yes, especially for young victims with severe transverse myelitis, the total claim can amount to € 5 million or more, which belongs to the highest personal injury cases in the Netherlands.Frequently Asked Questions about Transverse Myelitis in Zoetermeer
How do I determine if my transverse myelitis is complete or partial?
In a complete transverse myelitis, there is no function or sensation below the damage, whereas a partial lesion still leaves some function. This is established by a doctor using neurological tests and imaging such as an MRI. For more certainty, you can request a second opinion at an expertise centre.
Can I get an adapted home through the Zoetermeer municipality?
The WMO provides support for simple adaptations, such as a stairlift. For extensive renovations or a new home, a claim often needs to be filed against the liable party. A personal injury lawyer can assist with this.
What is the amount of non-pecuniary damages for transverse myelitis?
For paraplegia, this ranges between € 100,000 and € 175,000, and for tetraplegia between € 150,000 and € 250,000, depending on personal circumstances. A specialist can provide a precise estimate.
Who pays my care costs in case of intensive care needs?
In case of liability of a third party (for example after an accident), all costs, including future care, are compensated. A personal injury lawyer ensures that these costs are fully claimed.
Is working still possible after transverse myelitis?
This depends on the severity of the injury and your job. In tetraplegia, working is often impossible, but in paraplegia, adapted work may be an option. You are entitled to a vocational expert report and compensation for income loss.
Relevant institutions in Zoetermeer: For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer. Cases fall under the District Court of The Hague.