A transverse myelitis is a serious injury to the spinal cord that leads to paralysis of parts of the body. This results in permanent limitations and often extremely high compensation claims.
Types of Transverse Myelitis
| Category | Effects |
|---|---|
| Complete transverse myelitis | Total paralysis below the level of injury |
| 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
- Paralysis of arms and/or legs
- Loss of sensation in affected areas
- Complications with bladder and bowel functions
- Breathing difficulties (in case of high injury)
- Persistent pain complaints
- Muscle spasms and spasticity
- Risk of decubitus ulcers (pressure sores)
Damage Components
The financial impact of transverse myelitis is significant:
- Home adaptations for wheelchair use
- Adapted transportation
- Continuous care, often 24 hours a day (in tetraplegia)
- Necessary aids such as wheelchairs and hoists
- Loss of income due to disability for work
- Non-pecuniary damages in the highest categories
Non-Pecuniary Damages in Transverse Myelitis
In the Netherlands, non-pecuniary damages for transverse myelitis are among the highest awards:
- Paraplegia: € 100,000 - € 175,000
- Tetraplegia: € 150,000 - € 250,000
Total Compensation
The total costs in case of transverse myelitis can run into millions of euros due to:
- Long-term care needs
- Necessary adaptations to the home or relocation
- Loss of earning capacity over an entire career
- Costs for aids and special transportation
Who funds home adaptations?
A portion can be reimbursed via the WMO (Leiden municipality), but this is often insufficient. The remaining amount is claimed from the liable party. Sometimes relocation to a suitable home is unavoidable.How is permanent care calculated?
The required care hours per day are determined and multiplied by professional rates. This is then calculated over the victim's expected life expectancy.Can damage amounts really amount to millions?
Yes, especially for young victims with severe transverse myelitis, the total claim can amount to € 5 million or more. These are the most serious personal injury cases in the Netherlands.Frequently Asked Questions about Transverse Myelitis in Leiden
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 injury, whereas a partial lesion still retains some function. This is determined by a doctor through neurological tests and imaging such as an MRI. For specialist advice, you can go to centres such as the Sint Maartenskliniek.
Can the Leiden municipality help with an adapted home?
Via the WMO, the municipality provides basic facilities such as a stairlift. For larger adaptations 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?
Non-pecuniary damages for paraplegia range between € 100,000 and € 175,000, and for tetraplegia between € 150,000 and € 250,000. This depends on personal circumstances and the impact on your life. An expert can provide a precise estimate.
Who pays my care costs in case of intensive care needs?
If a third party is liable, such as after an accident, care costs are reimbursed by them. This includes home care or nursing, calculated over your life expectancy. A lawyer helps in claiming these costs.
Is working still possible after transverse myelitis?
This depends on the severity and your profession. In paraplegia, adapted work is sometimes feasible, whereas tetraplegia often means complete work disability. You are entitled to a labour market expert report and compensation for income loss from the liable party.
Relevant Institutions in Leiden:
- Court: District Court of The Hague, Leiden Location
- Legal Aid Office: Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46